Homologated exhausts: what you need to know

Are you a motorbike and car enthusiast and wish to personalise your vehicle to make it unique and reflect your personality? Of the most common modifications, replacing the exhaust tailpipe is certainly the most tempting, giving your vehicle a gritty, eye-catching touch and increasing its performance. However, when it comes to making these modifications, it is essential to be informed about the rules and regulations in force so as not to stumble upon annoying surprises. In this article, we will find out what information is crucial to keep you in compliance and enjoy your passion risk-free.

Exhaust approval: what does the law say and what do you have to do to comply?

All motorcyclists and motorists should pay attention to the provisions of the Highway Code that present specific rules on exhausts, taking into account the specifications in Articles 71, 72, 78 and 79 of the Highway Code (C.d.S.). In particular, Article 78 of the S.C. often generates some controversy as it is unfairly applied by the police against drivers. Yet, reading Article 78 itself in depth, we discover that, in order to know the list of vehicle 'constructive characteristics' that are subject to updating, we have to refer to Article 236 of the regulation where exhaust devices are not mentioned except as 'noise pollution'.

Why is it possible to replace the exhaust with a sports exhaust?

Naturally, the exhaust silencer has a shorter lifespan than the average life of the vehicle on which it is installed. Consequently, it is essential to schedule periodic replacements in order to keep the noise level in accordance with the vehicle's registration papers. This is why the law itself provides the option of opting for a silencer of the same type supplied by the manufacturer or of choosing a replacement silencer, which - however - must be type-approved according to EU standards and suitable for your specific type of vehicle.

The tests and trials at the Motor Vehicle Licensing Offices

The much-feared tests are only provided for 'when modifications are made to the constructional and functional characteristics, or to the equipment specified in Articles 71 and 72'. As is evident, this modification, however, does not refer to the replacement of the exhaust with an aftermarket one that, in fact, would not alter the physical and mechanical characteristics of the entire exhaust system. So, if you want to improve the performance, aesthetics and weight of your car or motorbike, you can install a homologated racing exhaust on it. In the event of a check, the regulation described in Article 78 (which precisely provides for the dreaded seizure and confiscation of the registration certificate) should not apply, but that of Article 72. The latter states that mopeds, motorbikes and motor vehicles must be equipped with specific devices, specifying that 'Anyone circulating with one of the vehicles referred to in this article in which any of the devices prescribed therein are missing or do not comply with the provisions laid down in the provisions laid down shall be subject to the administrative sanction of the payment of a sum of 65 to 262 euro'. Article 79, on the other hand, lays down the rules for the proper functioning of the exhaust terminal, which must not undergo any modification, reduction or improper assembly, otherwise you risk a penalty of €78.

Homologised exhausts: what to do to avoid penalties?

According to current legislation, you can install an aftermarket exhaust system, but you must prove that it is compatible and homologated with your vehicle model. Before proceeding with the purchase, carefully check the technical data sheet of the silencer to ensure its conformity with your motorbike or car. In addition, to avoid unpleasant penalties (sometimes unfair due to incorrect application of the articles of the Highway Code), you must always carry the necessary documents with you, including the exhaust type approval certificate, which must be provided to you by the company that sells you the exhaust.

M4 Tuning: your trusted exhaust dealer

By choosing exhausts from the best brands on the market that are present in our shop, you can be sure that you are purchasing type-approved products. In fact, we supply you with every single product complete with type approval plate + certificate to be attached to the registration certificate (no need to update at the DMV). In addition, non-homologated products do not bear the homologation wording in their description, while those that require the original exhaust to be cut off in order to be fitted do not bear the wording: "Assembly without the need for modifications." Want to finally make those longed-for improvements to your motorbike or car? Choose the sports exhausts offered by M4 Tuning and play it safe.

What do you need to do to purchase your new homologated exhaust?

Find the exhaust for your motorbike or car directly on our website and choose from the best brands we have selected for you, including leaders such as: Akrapovic, Arrow Exhaust, Exan, Giannelli, GPR, HP Corse, Leovince, Marving, Mivv, QD Exhaust, Scalvini, Yoshimura, Inoxcar, Milltek, and many others.

Do you need information about a specific product or would you like to receive advice from one of our experts for your homologated exhaust? Send us a message or select the icon in the bottom right-hand corner and choose the method you prefer to speak to our team.