Q: Can I be fined for having aftermarket mufflers on my truck?
My son was cited for having a " modified" muffler to make engine louder, citing TR 547.604. The muffler has not been modified, I do, however, have an aftermarket muffler. An 18" glass pack, to be exact, and I've heard systems way louder than mine. It has passed inspection for the passed 7 years with the same exhaust. It still has factory catalytic converters as well.
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A:
Under Texas Transportation Code Section 547.604, vehicles must have a muffler in good working condition that prevents excessive or unusual noise. While aftermarket mufflers like an 18-inch glass pack are not inherently illegal, they can be subject to citation if they amplify the vehicle's noise beyond acceptable levels. The fact that there are louder systems out there doesn't exempt a vehicle from being cited if an officer deems it too loud.
Even if your truck has passed inspections for the past seven years, inspections primarily check for the presence of a muffler, not necessarily the noise level under all conditions. Law enforcement officers can issue citations based on their judgment of what constitutes excessive or unusual noise at the time of the stop. Maintaining factory catalytic converters is positive, but it doesn't address the noise concerns related to the muffler.
If you believe the citation is unjustified because your muffler does not produce excessive noise, you might consider contesting the ticket in court. Gathering evidence like recent inspection reports or noise level readings could support your case. Understanding local noise ordinances and how they apply to your situation may also be beneficial.
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