Are Downpipes Legal, Tampering with emissions is illegal on the federal level.

Are Downpipes Legal, These CARB-certified parts have been rigorously tested to prove they do not increase emissions and are legal for use in all fifty states. Paired with the appropriate software, a downpipe can provide significant gains and make a vehicle more fun and engaging to drive. In 2026, the state’s focus on clean air enforcement is expected to tighten, potentially leading to heavy fines for non-compliance. While they are popular among car enthusiasts for the performance gains and aggressive exhaust note they provide, it’s important to understand the legal implications before making any modifications to your vehicle. While downpipes enhance performance, removing cats has legal and environmental implications. Dec 1, 2025 · Upgraded downpipes provide great increases in horsepower and torque on turbocharged vehicles by allowing exhaust gasses to flow easier as they leave the turbo. Jul 16, 2021 · Downpipe is not legal for street use and is only allowed for track or off roading use. Many drivers think downpipes are fine as long as the catalytic converter stays in place. Audi offers a resonator delete as a “sound enhanced exhaust” option for a 2021 S5, so I don’t think that part would be illegal. Apr 24, 2026 · No — most aftermarket downpipes are not legal in California. Even if you put on a catted downpipe (which has negligible gains) the cat will not be efficient enough to filter as much as the stock did. Jul 18, 2021 · Catless downpipe can help you gain 50 additional horsepower with tuning - this is slightly more than a regular catted downpipe. Downpipes are a common modification for vehicle exhaust systems, often used to improve performance. . Downpipes can replace catalytic converters, but it’s essential to understand what this means for your vehicle. This is because aftermarket downpipes equip less restrictive CAT that can increase emission significantly (depending on the model). If you're asking if you can just straight pipe exhaust from the turbo directly out, hell the fuck no. Jan 26, 2026 · Learn how to choose a downpipe safely and legally. The truth sits in the middle, but leans heavily toward restriction. But the downpipe is probs illegal. catless downpipe However, the catless downpipe improves airflow by eliminating restriction. Understand key differences between exhaust and rainwater systems, compliance rules, and what to check before buying. Aug 9, 2021 · The main downside of the standardized downpipe is the limited or restricted nature of the car’s performance. Catless downpipes have larger diameters to allow exhaust gasses to flow and the turbo to spin. Dive into the world of automotive emissions regulations and find out if catted downpipes are legal in your state. You need a catalytic converter and a muffler to be road legal. Learn how these components impact your vehicle's performance and the environment. Every state will have different laws/inspections BUT it is illegal everywhere. The exhaust gases from your car will be toxic both to the environment and yourself. The short answer is no, using an aftermarket downpipe may violate California’s stringent emissions laws. Apr 4, 2024 · Installing a downpipe on your car can enhance performance and sound, but it also involves important legal considerations. The Clean Air Act prohibits removing or disabling any emission control device installed by the manufacturer, and a catalytic converter is one of the most critical emission components on a modern vehicle. A downpipe is a piece of tube that connects your turbo to your exhaust. Understanding the laws in your area can help you avoid fines, penalties, or the need for costly modifications later. For the highest assurance of legality, owners should seek high-flow catted downpipes that have received an Executive Order (EO) number from the California Air Resources Board (CARB). Tampering with emissions is illegal on the federal level. Aftermarket downpipes can be legal if they meet emission standards and carry appropriate certifications. However, in exchange for that power, catless downpipe is not legal and will not pass the emissions test. Both residents and visitors must comply with these rules while driving in California. Using non-CARB-approved downpipes can result in failed smog checks and legal penalties. Feb 22, 2024 · Are Decats and Catless Downpipes Legal? Decats and catless downpipes are a modification that falls into a legal gray area. Apr 7, 2026 · Catless downpipes are illegal on any vehicle driven on public roads in the United States. Always check whether the component has CARB approval before installation to avoid any potential fines or penalties. In California, the legality of downpipes depends on compliance with strict emissions and noise regulations enforced by state law. Installation of downpipes that increase noise beyond legal limits is prohibited under California vehicle code. Australia’s 2026 vehicle reforms have tightened emissions oversight, and many car enthusiasts wonder whether a downpipe—an aftermarket exhaust component that bypasses the factory catalytic converter—can still be fitted legally. I don't want my car to be loud but to have more personality with both the feel and sound. And yes, it is blatantly obvious from the sound and smell that a car has no cat or muffler. Are aftermarket catted downpipes legal in NY? I live on Long Island but not sure where to ask this so figured I would ask here. Are aftermarket catted downpipes legal in NY? I recently got my first new car and was looking into eventually modding it. 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