Since 1961 the Jacobs Engine Brake^® has led the trucking industry in engine brake technology. Originally developed and patented by Clessie L. Cummins in 1957, today the Jake Brake® can be found worldwide with over 10 million engine brakes sold. Occasionally, we receive inquiries regarding engine brake use and noise. The posting of engine brake signs along roads and highways has created controversy with both residents and drivers alike. This information has been established to inform interested parties about the issue.

Information on Engine Exhaust Noise

Questions and answers:

I've seen signs posted that read "No Jake Brakes.” What does this mean?

Jake Brake® is a registered trademark of Jacobs Vehicle Systems. The term "Jake Brake" is sometimes incorrectly used to refer to compression release type engine brakes in general. The term correctly refers to all of Jacobs^® retarding products. When an engine brake is used on a vehicle with a poorly muffled or un-muffled engine exhaust (using straight pipes for example), the sound can be offensive, which is what prompted the sign you saw. The sign you saw might have unfairly used our trademark, making it brand specific.

I'm bothered by the noise of big trucks using their Engine Brakes, what can I do?

The federal government has required all vehicles manufactured since 1978 to meet noise requirements when delivered to the customer, so trucks have been required to meet the requirements when they leave the dealership as new vehicles for quite some time. The real problem here is modified or defective exhaust systems. The use of the engine brake is not the problem. Citizens and truck drivers can both do their part to keep the noise down. Citizens, encourage your local police to stop noisy vehicles and check them for muffler integrity. Truckers, if you know someone who is operating a vehicle with an excessively loud exhaust system, encourage him or her to fix it.

Noise information and ordinance help

To better understand engine exhaust noise and our standpoint, view our updated engine brake noise brochure or white paper.

If you are made aware of an upcoming legislative ordinance, or it is your understanding that your community is considering an ordinance that prohibits Jake Brake or engine brake use, please let us know by using our contact form below.

Noise laws by state: Quick Reference

We have compiled US noise control laws by state including decibel limits and fines for ordinance violations for quick reference.