Originally Posted by cmarks20 (Post 887635)

I'm not sure if anyone has had to deal with this yet, sicne the twins are so new. I want to replace the exhaust system from the headers back, but can't find any information on the emissions/smog requirements for VA - even on the DMV website. They indicate it has to be done and various types of tests they perform, but no metrics on what is actually required to pass. Has anyone had a VA emission test done with aftermarket exhaust modifications?

Originally Posted by xjohnx (Post 887664)

Varies by locality, I believe. I know in Richmond and all of the central VA area no emissions testing is required.

Originally Posted by cmarks20 (Post 887706)

Yea, I'm one of those lucky Prince William bastards :(

I found both the links when I was researching earlier (thanks, btw), but neither really provide the information I was looking for. Like everything else, VA gives the "we could do a number of things" line rather than just a straight "this is exactly what happens." I just don't want to be stuck in a position where I've spent $2k+ on mods to find out I can't pass. I figured other owners experiences would be the best answer.

Originally Posted by MVJ1975 (Post 887993)

Do bear in mind that any aftermarket exhaust is technically illegal in VA. As long as it's not overly loud you'll probably slide under the radar, but if you change it, you're in violation of the law and can get a ticket. NoVA cops tend to be jerks about this, too.

Originally Posted by MVJ1975 (Post 887993)

Do bear in mind that any aftermarket exhaust is technically illegal in VA. As long as it's not overly loud you'll probably slide under the radar, but if you change it, you're in violation of the law and can get a ticket. NoVA cops tend to be jerks about this, too.

Originally Posted by Jahdai42

Yup, here it is

http://leg1.state.va.us/cgi-bin/legp...+cod+46.2-1049

Originally Posted by Vyk (Post 888141)

I work at a service station in Fairfax County that does Emissions (I also took the Emissions inspector course just for the information) and any modification to the emissions system is technically illegal. but the Emissions Inspectors are not law enforcement, they have their responsibilities though.

It's my understanding that for vehicles with model year 1996 and up, inspectors are only specifically required to check the vehicle for the presence of a catalytic converter. But of course if they see anything fishy, they can reject the vehicle for testing, or depending on the condition, fail it.

As others have said, the police can, especially the state troopers (who are in charge of the Safety Inspection Program) stop you and give you a ticket for non-compliant or defective equipment.

Because of that and other reasons I usually keep my cars and bikes mostly stock.

Originally Posted by UncleFester (Post 888221)

My understanding is that for newer cars they are *supposed to* visually check to make sure a cat is present, then they plug it into an OBDII machine that tests for CEL's if none are present you are good to go. I know they can be lax on the visual inspection. I've had numerous emissions inspections done in Virginia on modified vehicles and have never had one rejected for emissions, not even for one that was catless (no CEL).

Originally Posted by MVJ1975 (Post 888302)

You should be fine with a Q300. They're not significantly louder than the stock. As was said, as long as the cat is present you shouldn't fail inspection, and if it's not loud the police probably won't bother you either.

Meanwhile, they ignore all the Harley riders.

Originally Posted by cmarks20 (Post 888161)

That's disconcerning to say the least. So if it's not the OEM, you're breaking the law - after being charged a ridiculous amount of tax to own something. Nice.



I guess I could go with an axle-back at 95db or less and a CAI. That does kill any chance of a turbo or supercharger though. I'm really starting to question the point in buying a sports car at all.

Originally Posted by infinite012 (Post 888546)

Read the law again. It says any modifications to the exhaust are illegal.

The one way to get around it is to have a muffler shop fabricate an exhaust system that is to OEM specifications. Then, when you get pulled over and have to go to court, you will have receipts showing that your muffler shop conformed to OEM standards and the exhaust is legal.

Or just run whatever and be careful/pay for your tickets like a big boy.

Originally Posted by cmarks20 (Post 888706)

Ticket costs doesn't concern me, paying 1500 for an exhaust and having to remove it does. As long as I can pass emissions, I'm content.

Originally Posted by cmarks20 (Post 888706)

Ticket costs doesn't concern me, paying 1500 for an exhaust and having to remove it does. As long as I can pass emissions, I'm content.

Originally Posted by infinite012 (Post 888720)

You can pass emissions, just be smart about it. For example, don't take your car to the dealer expecting to pass emissions if you have no catalytic converter.