California Loud Exhaust Ticket Fines & Penalties

In California, a loud exhaust violation (Vehicle Code §27150–27153) carries a base fine of $25–$100, depending on severity and officer discretion.

Additional consequences:

• Total cost with fees/assessments: typically $200–$400+
• Mandatory correction (fix-it ticket): must repair and obtain referee station sign-off
• Vehicle impoundment possible if noise exceeds 95 dB (VC §27156)
• Repeat offenses escalate penalties

California uses SAE J1169 testing standards. Aftermarket exhausts must not exceed 95 dB; most "straight pipe" or deleted muffler setups violate this.