Maine requires that exhaust systems meet certain standards.
Like many states, Maine has adopted statutes that regulate exhaust and emissions systems on cars operated within the state. Because automobile exhaust laws include issues of noise and emissions, the law was highly opposed by motorcycle enthusiasts who take pride in the loudness of their vehicles. Motorcyclists believe that quieter motorcycles create safety issues because other drivers cannot hear them. Nevertheless, Maine's commitment to the environment and to reduce noise pollution took priority over the opposition's concerns.
Inspection
Maine requires automobile inspections for vehicles registered within the state. Maine Revised Statutes title 29-A, sections 1751, 1752 and 1756, govern inspections, and Section 1751 discusses inspection generally, including the various automobile components that must be reviewed, such as exhaust systems and catalytic converters. Section 1756 sets standards for the performance of each of the components. Section 1752 exempts certain vehicles for inspection. The Maine State Police Motor Vehicle Inspection Manual sets forth more specific regulations for carrying out the purposes of the statute.
Exhaust Requirements
Maine sets five standards for exhaust systems and has additional requirements for catalytic converters. The five general standards apply to all automobile components subject to inspection. Equipment must be in good working order, be safely attached or secured to the vehicle, be mechanically safe, not pose a hazard to occupants of the vehicle or the general public and meet additional standards set by the chief of the state police. The Maine State Police Motor Vehicle Inspection Manual at Rule 170.1.6 discusses more detailed requirements for exhaust system inspections. A list of issues could result in an exhaust system rejection, such as loose or leaking seams or failure to have a muffler that effectively reduces noise levels to those below the factory installed equipment.
Exceptions
Maine Revised Statutes title 29-A, section 1752, defines the types of vehicles that need not meet inspection requirements. Those vehicles include: cars registered and displaying an inspection sticker from the state where registered, farm tractors and trucks, antique automobiles, automobiles operated on islands, mopeds, motorized bicycles, tricycles, fish trucks, trucks used in logging, experimental vehicles and low-speed vehicles.
Penalties
Failure to pass a motor vehicle inspection, including a muffler and exhaust system in good working order, will prevent registration of the car. If an automobile does not pass inspection, a new inspection should be done within 60 days. Continuing to operate an unregistered vehicle can result in other penalties, such as loss of driving privileges.
Tags: exhaust system, exhaust systems, automobile components, catalytic converters, good working, good working order