Dáil Éireann Debate, Monday - 11 September 2023
259. Deputy Steven Matthews asked the Minister for Transport the position regarding noise level limits for car exhausts; if the WHO recommendations on limiting them (details supplied) are being considered; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37523/23]
View answerLimits for exhaust noise are set in the EU type-approval system for motor vehicles, under Regulation (EU) 2018/858 and related regulations. New cars must meet European noise limits under Regulation 540/2014 (EU). These limits depend on the type of vehicle, but have been progressively reduced from 82 decibels (dB (A)) in 1978 to 72 dB (A) in 2016. Cars may also be approved under regulation 51 of the Economic Commission for Europe of the United Nations (UNECE), with similar limits.
Incremental decreases will bring the limit for most new passenger cars to 68 dB(A) by 2026, with our overall ambition being to work towards meeting the recommended WHO limits.
The National Car Test (NCT) includes an assessment of silencers in reducing exhaust noise. The 99dB limit advised in the NCT Tester Manual is for older cars, to allow them to be tested against the standard which they were designed to meet. However, a noise test is carried out during the NCT where exhaust noise is excessive.
The Road Traffic (Construction, Equipment and Use of Vehicles) Regulations 1963 (SI 190 of 1963) address exhaust noise. Under Section 29 of the Regulations, combustion engine vehicles must be fitted with a silencer or other device for reducing exhaust noise to a reasonable level. Section 34(2)(e) states that such silencers must be in good working order. Section 85(1)(a) states that a person shall not use, or permit to be used, a vehicle that causes excessive noise as a result of defect or poor maintenance of the vehicle or its equipment.
