Yes, muffler deletes are illegal in Taiwan without compliance certification.
Taiwan’s Vehicle Safety Inspection Regulations (2024) and Road Traffic Management and Penalty Act (Article 31) prohibit unauthorized modifications to exhaust systems. The Ministry of Transportation and Communications (MOTC) and National Police Agency (NPA) enforce these rules, with penalties including fines up to NT$30,000 (≈US$950) and mandatory reinstatement of compliant systems. Recent 2026 compliance shifts under the Green Transportation Act further tighten enforcement, targeting aftermarket modifications that increase noise or emissions.
Key Regulations for Muffler Deletes in Taiwan
- Vehicle Safety Inspection Regulations (2024): Exhaust systems must meet CNS 11447 noise standards (≤92 dB for passenger vehicles). Uncertified deletes fail inspection, blocking registration renewal.
- Road Traffic Management and Penalty Act (Article 31): Modifications altering original specifications void vehicle compliance, subjecting owners to immediate fines and potential impoundment.
- Green Transportation Act (2026 draft): Proposes mandatory OBD-II system checks for modified vehicles, with non-compliant exhausts triggering emissions-related penalties (up to NT$150,000).
Local authorities (e.g., Taipei City Government’s Traffic Bureau) conduct random roadside inspections, prioritizing high-noise vehicles. Imported aftermarket parts require MOTC Type Approval, rarely granted for muffler deletes. Legal alternatives include CNS-certified performance mufflers or resonator-compliant systems.