Milltek exhaust systems are a popular choice among car enthusiasts who seek to enhance the performance and sound of their vehicles. Known for their high-quality materials, precision engineering, and improved exhaust flow, Milltek systems are often chosen for performance upgrades in a variety of cars. However, if you live in California, the legality of installing a Milltek exhaust system on your vehicle is not as straightforward as simply purchasing and installing one.
California is known for its stringent emissions laws and vehicle regulations, and these laws can be a significant factor in determining whether a Milltek exhaust system is legal to install on your vehicle. In this blog post, we’ll explore the legal considerations of using Milltek exhaust systems in California, the relevant emissions standards, and how to ensure your upgrade stays compliant with state laws.
Understanding California’s Strict Emissions Standards
California has some of the most rigorous environmental regulations in the United States, especially when it comes to vehicle emissions. The California Air Resources Board (CARB) is responsible for setting and enforcing vehicle emission standards in the state, and the rules they have put in place are stricter than federal regulations in many cases. These standards aim to reduce air pollution and protect public health.
For vehicle exhaust systems, CARB regulations focus on two primary aspects:
- Emissions Compliance: Any modifications to your vehicle’s exhaust system must not negatively impact the vehicle’s ability to meet state emissions standards. Modifying or replacing key components of the exhaust system, such as the catalytic converter or mufflers, can affect the car’s emissions and may make the vehicle illegal to drive on public roads in California.
- Aftermarket Part Certification: In California, aftermarket parts, including exhaust systems, must be CARB-certified in order to be legally installed on vehicles. CARB certification ensures that the part meets the state’s emissions requirements and will not contribute to excess pollution.
Is a Milltek Exhaust Legal in California?
Milltek is a well-regarded manufacturer of aftermarket exhaust systems, and many enthusiasts turn to their products to improve vehicle performance, sound, and aesthetics. However, whether a Milltek exhaust system is legal in California largely depends on the specific type of exhaust system you purchase.
Milltek Exhaust Systems and CARB Certification
One of the primary concerns for California drivers is whether the Milltek exhaust system has been CARB-certified. In order for an aftermarket exhaust system to be legally installed on a vehicle in California, it must carry an Executive Order (EO) number from CARB. This EO number indicates that the system has been tested and approved by CARB to ensure it meets the state’s emissions requirements.
- Milltek Exhaust with CARB Certification: If Milltek offers a CARB-approved exhaust system for your specific make and model, then it is legal to install in California. These systems are specifically designed to ensure that they don’t interfere with your vehicle’s emission controls and that they comply with CARB regulations. Systems with CARB approval will typically have an EO number clearly listed on the product and documentation.
- Milltek Exhaust Without CARB Certification: If you purchase a Milltek exhaust system that does not have CARB certification, then it may not be street-legal in California. Installing a non-CARB-approved exhaust can result in fines, the inability to pass smog checks, and possible legal consequences if your vehicle is inspected by law enforcement or during an emissions test.
Cat-Back vs. Header-Back Systems
Milltek manufactures various types of exhaust systems, including cat-back and header-back systems, both of which can have different implications for emissions compliance.
- Cat-Back Exhaust Systems: These systems replace the exhaust components located after the catalytic converter, such as the muffler and tailpipe. Typically, a cat-back system doesn’t interfere with the catalytic converter, so it is less likely to impact the vehicle’s emissions output. However, for a cat-back system to be legal in California, it still needs to have CARB certification, which will indicate that it doesn’t negatively affect the vehicle’s emissions or the performance of the catalytic converter.
- Header-Back Exhaust Systems: These systems replace the entire exhaust system, including the headers, catalytic converter(s), and the pipes leading to the muffler. Header-back systems have a greater potential to impact emissions because they can alter or remove essential emission-control components such as catalytic converters. In most cases, installing a header-back exhaust system without CARB certification is illegal in California because it can significantly affect the vehicle’s emissions. To ensure compliance, a header-back system must be CARB-approved, and this is relatively rare for aftermarket systems.
Sound Regulations
California also has noise regulations for vehicles. Under the California Vehicle Code (CVC 27150), all cars must have a functioning muffler that prevents excessive noise. While Milltek exhaust systems are known for producing a sportier sound, if the exhaust system is too loud and violates the state’s noise regulations, it could lead to a citation or fine.
To avoid issues, ensure that any Milltek exhaust system you choose doesn’t exceed the legal noise limits, which are typically measured as a decibel limit. Many Milltek systems are designed to enhance the sound without producing excessive noise, but this is something to keep in mind when selecting the right system for your vehicle.
How to Ensure You’re Compliant with California Laws
To ensure your Milltek exhaust system is legal in California and compliant with all local regulations, here are a few steps you can take:
- Check for CARB Certification: Before purchasing any Milltek exhaust system, check if it is CARB-certified. Look for an Executive Order (EO) number, which is typically included in the product specifications or on the packaging. If the system is CARB-approved, it will be legal to install on your vehicle.
- Consult a Professional Installer: If you’re unsure whether a Milltek exhaust system is legal in your area, consult with a professional installer or an automotive shop that specializes in performance parts. They can help you choose a system that meets legal requirements.
- Research Local Emissions Laws: California’s emissions laws can vary slightly depending on your county or city. Some areas may have stricter regulations than others, especially in regions that have high air pollution levels, such as Los Angeles. Make sure you research the specific laws that apply to your vehicle and area.
- Smog Check Considerations: Keep in mind that if you live in a county where smog checks are required, your vehicle must pass the emissions test. If you install a non-CARB-approved exhaust system, your vehicle may fail the test, preventing you from registering or renewing your vehicle’s registration.
Conclusion: Is a Milltek Exhaust Legal in California?
In California, whether a Milltek exhaust system is legal depends primarily on whether it is CARB-certified and if it adheres to the state’s emissions and noise regulations. Milltek does offer some CARB-approved exhaust systems for specific vehicle models, which are legal to install. However, exhaust systems that are not CARB-certified may not comply with California’s strict regulations, and installing them can result in fines or failed emissions tests.
If you’re a car enthusiast in California considering a Milltek exhaust upgrade, always ensure that the system you choose is CARB-compliant and take into account both emissions and noise laws to stay on the right side of the law. When done correctly, a Milltek exhaust can be a great way to enhance the performance and sound of your vehicle while remaining compliant with California’s strict vehicle regulations.