Optimizing the sound of the vehicle is the goal of exhaust tuning. But many tuning fans also believe in the promises of some "experts" who tell them that working on the exhaust system can also increase the engine's performance.
But not everything is allowed. Changes to the exhaust for sound tuning can quickly lead to penalties with serious consequences. But which modifications to the exhaust are permitted and which are forbidden? You can find out all this and more in the following guide.
The components of the exhaust system
The exhaust system includes not only the visible tailpipe but also numerous other components. The exhaust gases produced during fuel combustion are filtered and released into the environment via this complex system. The exhaust system can include the following parts:
- Exhaust manifold
- Catalyst
- Front silencer
- Center silencer
- Rear silencer
- Tailpipe
The role of silencers
There are different mufflers in exhaust systems that minimize the noise at the end of the mouth and thus reduce noise emissions. The individual elements are distributed over the entire pipe system of the exhaust system. There are front silencers, middle silencers, and rear silencers. The rear silencer is located directly in front of the tailpipe.
Rear silencer tuning: There are penalties for violations of noise protection
With the absorption silencer, the exhaust noise is conducted through a chamber filled with materials such as glass wool or fibers. These porous structures absorb the sound pressure and the volume is reduced. A combination with several reflection chambers is also possible, which can greatly reduce the noise level. Without the silencer, you can get pulled over for loud exhaust.
What are sports silencers?
Sports silencers are particularly popular in the tuning sector. In particular, they let through the lower audio frequencies and thus produce a sportier vehicle sound. This creates the subjective feeling that the performance of the car has been increased.
A so-called decibel or dB killer - also dB eater or absorber - is also installed in the sports silencer, especially on motorcycles. They are interchangeable, but must not be completely removed. In road traffic, they ensure that the otherwise loud sports silencers meet the legal guidelines for protection against noise emissions.
Decibels (dB): A decibel is one-tenth of a bel – a physical quantity named after Alexander Graham Bell. The higher the numerical value, the further the sound spreads, the noise is – to put it in layman’s terms – louder.
The presence of functioning exhaust silencers is mandatory. The main reason for this is noise protection so you can get pulled over for loud exhaust. If your vehicle is too noisy, you can expect penalties and problems with the authorities.
FAQ: Exhaust tuning
How can I change my exhaust system?
A tuning is possible on the silencers, on the tailpipe, and on the catalytic converter.
May I remove the dB killer?
No. Without a dB killer, the exhaust is usually too loud, which is why it is mandatory.
What happens if my exhaust is too loud?
If you do not comply with the provisions of the road traffic regulations for your locality, your car insurance will usually expire.