LTO clarifies rules on use of modified mufflers

CEBU, Philippines — The Land Transportation Office (LTO) has addressed persistent questions and confusion regarding the use of aftermarket motorcycle mufflers and the role of Private Motor Vehicle Inspection Centers (PMVICs).

In a statement, the LTO emphasized that while PMVICs conduct mandatory sound level testing as part of the vehicle inspection process, passing the prescribed decibel limit does not automatically mean that an aftermarket muffler is legally approved.

Under LTO Memorandum Circular No. 2020-2240, PMVICs are required to measure exhaust noise levels, with the allowable limit set at 99 decibels. However, the agency clarified that the mandate of PMVICs is limited to determining vehicle roadworthiness and verifying that noise emissions fall within the prescribed threshold.

PMVICs do not assess whether mufflers comply with manufacturer specifications or LTO modification regulations. As such, the Motor Vehicle Inspection Report (MVISR) issued after inspection does not certify the legality of any aftermarket component installed on a motorcycle.

The LTO stressed that a motorcycle that passes the decibel test may still be subject to apprehension if its muffler has been modified or replaced with an unapproved aftermarket version.

Enforcement of these regulations is carried out by the LTO and the Philippine National Police Highway Patrol Group (PNP-HPG) in accordance with existing laws, including Department of Transportation (DOTr) Department Orders 2010-32 and 2023-008, as well as Republic Act No. 4136, also known as the Land Transportation and Traffic Code.

Motorcycle owners may be required to present valid documentation, such as a Certificate of Road Safety issued by manufacturers or assemblers, to prove that any modification or aftermarket replacement complies with LTO regulations and applicable Philippine National Standards.

The LTO reminded motorcycle owners that aftermarket parts and accessories must conform to manufacturer specifications and LTO modification policies. Proper documentation, the agency added, should always be readily available to avoid inconvenience during roadside inspections. — /FPL (FREEMAN)