S'pore car workshop owner charged in court for making illegal exhaust modifications

A serious offence.

Nigel Chua | May 06, 2021, 04:29 PM

 

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The owner of Fong Kim Exhaust Racing Development Private Limited, a car workshop, was charged in court today (May 6) for performing illegal vehicle modifications, the Land Transport Authority (LTA) said in a statement.

The workshop owner has been accused of replacing the exhaust systems of two cars with unapproved exhaust systems, and now faces three charges under the Road Traffic Act.

Modifying a vehicle illegally is a serious offence, said LTA, adding that illegal modification of a car's exhaust system may have the following consequences:

  • Affecting the durability and reliability of the vehicle.
  • Increasing safety risks to both the driver and other road users.
  • Creating excessive noise and causing public nuisance.

Only certified exhaust systems allowed

LTA said that its approval was required for any installation of after-market exhaust systems, and said that vehicle owners should check if their planned modifications comply with LTA’s guidelines before proceeding.

Only certified systems that have undergone stringent testing in compliance with international standards, and are compatible with the particular make and model of the vehicle will be allowed, LTA added.

Furthermore, the exhaust systems would also be required to meet the prevailing noise and exhaust emission requirements set by the National Environment Agency.

Illegal modifications may pose safety and environmental hazards

"LTA takes a serious view of illegal modifications as they may pose serious safety and environmental hazards. We strongly advise workshops and individuals to refrain from illegally modifying or using modified vehicles," said the agency.

Those who illegally modify vehicles, or use them, can be fined up to S$5,000, imprisoned for up to three months, or both, LTA said, adding that the maximum penalties are doubled for repeat offenders.

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Top image via @mattboitor on Unsplash