What is required for a vehicle's muffler to pass inspection?

A vehicle's muffler must be in good working order without patches to pass inspection because the primary function of the muffler is to reduce noise from the engine and ensure that exhaust gases are expelled safely and efficiently. A muffler that is not functioning correctly can create excessive noise and may lead to harmful emissions, which can be detrimental to both the environment and public health.

Having a muffler that is simply present, regardless of its condition, does not meet safety and emissions standards set forth for vehicles. Minor repairs might make a muffler operable, but they can also indicate that the muffler is not in optimal condition, which could affect its performance and reliability. While a new muffler might ensure compliance, it is not a requirement that the muffler must be shiny or new; what matters is its effectiveness in doing its job without any signs of patches or temporary fixes that might compromise its integrity.