No, loud exhaust systems are illegal in Romania under the Regulamentul nr. 104/2011 and OUG 195/2002, as amended by Legea 107/2026. Modifications altering noise levels beyond EU standards (74 dB for cars, 79 dB for motorcycles) violate Directiva UE 2014/45/UE. Non-compliance risks fines up to RON 5,000 (€1,000) and mandatory exhaust replacement.
Key Regulations for Loud Exhausts in Romania
- EU Noise Emission Limits: Vehicles must adhere to Regulamentul nr. 104/2011, aligning with Directiva UE 2014/45/UE, which caps exhaust noise at 74 dB (cars) and 79 dB (motorcycles). Exceeding these thresholds constitutes a legal violation.
- Technical Inspection (ITP): Mandatory annual inspections (I.T.P.) include noise level testing. Vehicles failing the test must undergo repairs or risk registration suspension. Autoritatea Rutieră Română (ARR) enforces these checks.
- 2026 Compliance Shift: The Legea 107/2026 tightens penalties, introducing automated noise detection systems in urban areas (e.g., Bucharest, Cluj-Napoca) and doubling fines for repeat offenders. Police (Poliția Rutieră) may impound vehicles with illegal exhausts.