Minister: Noisy cars to meet strict limits

Cars with modified exhausts will have to meet strict noise limits from June 1 this year, Transport Safety Minister Harry Duynhoven says.

If they fail a warrant of fitness check they will have to go through a metered test with a limit of 95 decibels.

If they fail that test, they will have to be repaired and then pass a test at 90 decibels.

Mr Duynhoven said police on patrol would be able to order a noisy car to be tested at the 90 decibel level.

"These amendments will not affect the majority of vehicle owners," he said.

"They target only those vehicles with modified exhausts and those people who continue to use a vehicle which exceeds the limits set in the Vehicle Equipment Rule due to take effect on June 1."

Mr Duynhoven said the Government intended changing entry requirements so that imported vehicles had to meet tighter noise restrictions.

He said the changes might increase the costs of compliance for some owners.

- NZPA