By John Q. Hosedrinker 
The Department of Justice (DOJ) announced a policy change on January 21, 2026, ceasing criminal charges for Clean Air Act violations related to diesel emissions tampering, often called “tuning” or “deletes.” This shift in enforcement, targeting practices like removing emissions control devices, follows a commitment to efficient resource use and avoiding over-criminalization. While criminal charges are no longer pursued, civil penalties for these violations may still be issued in partnership with the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). This decision follows the pardon of a mechanic charged with Clean Air Act violations in November 2025, which also inspired legislative attempts, such as the “Diesel Truck Liberation Act,” that ultimately did not pass.
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DOJ will no longer pursue criminal charges for diesel ‘deletes’ and ‘tunes’. It seems like this isn’t limited to just diesel trucks either; the word on the street is that anyone tinkering with their car’s engine control unit (ECU) is off the hook, at least when it comes to criminal charges. Now, that’s a pretty big shift, and it’s sparking some serious debate.
DOJ will no longer pursue criminal charges for diesel ‘deletes’ and ‘tunes’. You might recall Cobb Tuning getting hit with a $3 million fine recently for selling tuning components. They’ve since pivoted to making their products 50-state legal, which is a telling adjustment. It certainly makes you wonder about the priorities, doesn’t it? Apparently, clean air is no longer at the top of the list. Some are pretty blunt, calling this “fucking stupid” and expressing concern about the potential encouragement of illegal activities and a disregard for public well-being. The worry is that this might pave the way for a regression, maybe even to the days of lead and asbestos.
DOJ will no longer pursue criminal charges for diesel ‘deletes’ and ‘tunes’. The argument goes that the EPA’s focus seems to have shifted, potentially valuing profits for companies over the health and safety of citizens. This sort of shift raises questions about accountability and whether this is a temporary change. There’s a hope that such decisions can be reversed if there is a change in administration. It’s a reminder that this kind of policy can change quickly.
DOJ will no longer pursue criminal charges for diesel ‘deletes’ and ‘tunes’. The folks who are in favor of this are the ones who can pay to get out of the consequences and the ones who vote for them will feel the worst effects. They’re making it harder for their own kids. The platform has contradictions. They want to cruise around in big diesel trucks without emissions controls. This is called “freedom.” This essentially means that an agency, the executive branch, is unilaterally making a call about laws passed by Congress. And that’s concerning.
DOJ will no longer pursue criminal charges for diesel ‘deletes’ and ‘tunes’. One significant aspect to consider is the dwindling supply of emissions equipment, particularly for older, but still perfectly functional, diesel vehicles. Think about a truck owner facing a $10,000+ bill to replace a diesel particulate filter on a truck worth maybe $25,000. Considering the cost of replacement parts for DEF systems, the costs add up quickly.
DOJ will no longer pursue criminal charges for diesel ‘deletes’ and ‘tunes’. The question then becomes, is scrapping a vehicle because replacement parts are unreasonably priced the best solution? There’s a warning here: anyone who moves forward with these modifications could be in for a rude awakening when policies shift back and fines start rolling in.
DOJ will no longer pursue criminal charges for diesel ‘deletes’ and ‘tunes’. It’s important to understand the health risks involved. There was a time when I thought it was cool to modify my diesel. Diesel exhaust is terrible for you. Newer reports are coming out that link diesel exhaust to brain health problems, including Alzheimer’s. They’re actively contributing to environmental degradation.
DOJ will no longer pursue criminal charges for diesel ‘deletes’ and ‘tunes’. One thing to remember is that there can be civil fines even if they don’t pursue criminal charges. The key takeaway is: Don’t delete your equipment. If you get caught, it’ll cost you.
DOJ will no longer pursue criminal charges for diesel ‘deletes’ and ‘tunes’. It’s been said that these decisions can be seen as pandering to a specific group, and concerns have been raised about the potential for environmental damage. They’re encouraging “rolling coal” and even suggesting we may see more of the negative aspects of older times come to pass.
DOJ will no longer pursue criminal charges for diesel ‘deletes’ and ‘tunes’. The reaction from the public is strong and that this decision signals a worrying trend, with some questioning the ethics and priorities of those in power. If it ever changed back the uproar would be amazing.
DOJ will no longer pursue criminal charges for diesel ‘deletes’ and ‘tunes’. The comments made seem to suggest that the enthusiasts were not the issue, but it was the factories. And that even the government vehicles do not adhere to these standards.
DOJ will no longer pursue criminal charges for diesel ‘deletes’ and ‘tunes’. It’s being suggested that the US seems to be on a path towards environmental destruction while other countries, like China, are working on improving their environment. Some people think that if you want clean air, you should buy an island in the Pacific. It’s a sad state of affairs.
DOJ will no longer pursue criminal charges for diesel ‘deletes’ and ‘tunes’. The pushback is very real. The expectation of those who would like to see these changes made permanent. It brings back the image of the worst parts of multiple eras. The return of issues of the past. It’s money over people. Clean air is woke, but clean money, that’s different.