Every car has an exhaust system which includes items such as a high-performance exhaust muffler, manifold, resonator, and catalytic converter. They work together to not only remove dangerous gases but also to manage noise, route exhaust fumes away from passengers, improve engine efficiency, and even reduce fuel consumption. The complete exhaust system of your car may differ depending on the type and model, as well as the number of cylinders. Even minor damage to the exhaust system or the use of an incorrect part can cause issues such as poor performance, unbearable noise, excessive fuel consumption, etc. This guide will assist you in selecting a better exhaust system for your vehicle.
In this article:
1. What Kind Of Exhaust System Should I Install?
- Single Exit Exhaust
- Dual Side Exhaust
- Dual Rear Exhaust
- Opposite Dual Exhaust System
- High-Performance Exhaust Systems
4. What Is An Aftermarket Exhaust System?
5. What Is The Difference Between Aftermarket And Factory Exhaust Systems?
- Pipe Diameter
- Mufflers
- Pipe Bends
- Better Quality Materials
- Powerful Tone
- More Power
- Elegant Appearances
6. What Is The Main Difference Between An Aftermarket Exhaust And Factory Exhausts?
7. What Are The Factors I Should Consider Before Buying an Exhaust System?
- Compatibility
- Sound Level
- Brand Choice
- Checking For Fitment And Leakage
- Close Attention To Warranties
- Choosing The Right Material
- No Droning
8. Which Popular Brand Exhaust Systems Should I Choose?
- a. Magnaflow
- b. Flowmaster
9. How Much Will It Cost Me For A New Exhaust System?
10. How Long Is The Lifespan Of The Exhaust System?
1 What Kind Of Exhaust System Should I Install?
There are many types of car exhaust systems in the market, which leaves you with several options. You can completely replace the car’s damaged exhaust system, from the exhaust manifold to the exhaust tip, or any individual components such as the manifold, muffler, catalytic converter, or resonator. These parts are available in a variety of shapes and sizes to accommodate any vehicle. Some examples are:
2 Based On Configuration
Single Exit Exhaust
Single exhaust systems are installed on lighter car engines with lower gas production and pressure. The system includes a single pipe that connects the manifolds to the vehicle’s back.
Dual Side Exhaust
Smaller vehicles with dual-side exhausts installed have side-by-side exhaust pipes that exit in the back and produce an amazing sound.
Dual Rear Exhaust
Cars with dual rear exhaust systems have two distinct exhaust pipes that exit the vehicle from the back. It accelerates the removal of gases and is installed on vehicles with powerful engines, producing an intense sound.
Opposite Dual Exhaust System
Opposite dual rear exit exhaust is a popular exhaust system that gives sportier looks and sounds more aggressive. It comes with two pipes that are fixed on the opposite sides under the rear bumper. Just like some other types of exhaust systems, the pipes are not bent around the vehicle’s wheels. The driver can experience deeper sound, giving an impression of a high-power engine under the bonnet.
High-Performance Exhaust Systems
High-Performance Exhaust Systems are customized aftermarket exhaust systems that provide maximum performance with a loud tone.
3 Based on Budget
There are a few exhaust systems, such as header-back systems, axle-back systems, and cat-back systems, that can provide you with performance and power within your budget. You can easily alter your exhaust system based on your budget. Every system has a unique installation location within the overall exhaust system. The entire system, from the car’s exhaust manifold to the exhaust tailpipe, is basically replaced with a header-back system. Cat-back systems replace the entire system, starting from the catalytic converter to the tailpipe. Axle-back systems replace only what’s behind the axle.
Header-back systems
All the components of header-back exhaust systems are replaced, including the exhaust header to the tailpipes or exhaust tip. The best performance benefits come from header-back configurations, since they are the longest and most thorough. Header-back systems enable you to increase the diameter of your complete exhaust system to allow flow of volume of exhaust gas by replacing all exhaust system components. Because you are replacing almost the entire exhaust system, they are also the most expensive and difficult to install. They may delete emissions equipment, which makes them suitable only for off-road or racing purposes.
Axle-back systems
The most economical and straightforward to install are the axle-back systems, which come with everything from the rear axle to the exhaust tip. Since they swap out the muffler, the sound quality is still good. Compared to the factory exhaust, a well-designed axle-back exhaust system will increase power, and it is usually less expensive than comparable cat-back or header-back systems. This system contributes the least to improving performance, though, as they are the shortest systems.
Cat-back systems
Cat-back systems fall right in the middle as they replace exhaust components from the catalytic converter and back. They replace a significant portion of the exhaust system while leaving the emissions equipment in place. The exhaust gas flow can be increased by making a reasonably easy alteration called a cat-back exhaust system. Improved fuel economy may result from the engine operating more effectively thanks to the unrestrictive exhaust flow. Besides the muffler and tailpipe, these systems may also incorporate a mid-pipe, X-pipe, H-pipe, or Y-pipe, depending on the make and model. Therefore, they enhance performance and power, posing no legal issues. This is the preferred choice for most applications because of the reasonable pricing.
4 What Is An Aftermarket Exhaust System?
The full potential of your engine can be released via an aftermarket exhaust system that not only delivers additional horsepower but also an increase in torque. This could offer your engine’s exhaust gasses a quicker and more effective way to exit, which would make it easier for the engine to “breathe.” An aftermarket performance exhaust system can, in general, result in a system that enables the engine to operate at its best.
5 What Is The Difference Between Aftermarket And Factory Exhaust Systems?
Factory exhaust systems are made for street-legal vehicles whose noises are not as loud as those of an aftermarket exhaust system. Most automakers opt to keep their automobiles reasonably priced by designing a vehicle that is both secure and useful. There is no doubt that factory exhausts essentially rob the car of a significant amount of power, and this is made worse when factory exhausts get clogged over time, which can affect the performance of your engine.
If you’ve been considering replacing your factory exhaust with an aftermarket exhaust kit, you should first be aware of their crucial distinctions.
Pipe Diameter
The exhaust pipe diameter is one of the most significant distinctions between factory exhaust and aftermarket exhaust. The diameter of factory exhaust is often less than aftermarket exhaust. The aftermarket exhaust pipes are not made from mild steel, but these are rust-proof stainless steel exhaust pipes that have a bigger diameter that allow unrestricted airflow of exhaust gasses reducing back pressure.
Mufflers
Your factory exhaust system uses mufflers that are intended to reduce some of the exhaust flow in order to operate quietly. Conversely, high-performance exhaust systems use heavy-duty mufflers with fewer flow-restricting chambers and baffles.
Pipe Bends
Crush bending is a technique used in factory exhaust systems. Because of the constraints in the bends, performance is reduced. Pipes are mandrel bent for use in aftermarket exhaust systems. By removing the constrictive bends, the pipe’s diameter remains constant, preventing areas of reduced or limited flow. As a result, exhaust flow is considerably improved, horsepower is boosted, and torque is improved.
Better Quality Materials
The materials utilized to build aftermarket exhausts are typically superior to those used to create factory exhausts. Performance and cost are two factors that automakers aim to balance when assembling cars. When you select a high-quality aftermarket exhaust made of stainless steel, you have the option to select models with better materials, which usually means they will perform better and last longer. The main feature that you should look at when buying an exhaust upgrade is the quality of the stainless steel.
Powerful Tone
An aftermarket exhaust system is the finest option to give your vehicle a loud tone. That’s because aftermarket exhaust systems typically include mufflers designed to produce a rumbling similar to racing, as opposed to your factory’s nearly silent mufflers.
More Power
Factory exhausts rob the car of a sizable amount of power. Once you make the switch, you will notice and hear that they are less effective than aftermarket exhausts. Aftermarket exhausts are your best choice if you want improved performance.
Elegant Appearances
Some cars are forced to have an unattractive muffler dangling from the rear bumper. Therefore, many exhaust systems replace your factory muffler with an appealing aftermarket muffler that is equipped with a polished tip to enhance the rear aesthetics of your vehicle.
6 What Is The Main Difference Between An Aftermarket Exhaust And Factory Exhausts?
| Factory Exhausts | Aftermarket Exhausts |
| Factory exhausts are made with affordable, standardized parts that are fitted on a large number of vehicles. These exhausts are not meant to maximize the vehicle’s performance. | Aftermarket exhaust systems are a bit expensive but are the best way to boost horsepower and torque. |
| Factory exhausts don’t provide many styles of exhausts. | Aftermarket exhaust systems will let you define the style you want and accomplish the performance you wish. |
| Factory exhaust systems use a process called a crush bend. It is a simple and cost-effective method however it compromises performance. | Aftermarket exhaust systems use a more sophisticated process called mandrel bending. This method maintains a constant diameter which increases flow and consequently performance. |
| The materials used to construct factory exhaust systems are mild steel, which is cheaper but less resilient. | Higher-grade steels make aftermarket exhausts, such as aluminized steel, and a few types of stainless steel, such as T304 and T409. These materials are more resilient and have improved shock, vibration, corrosion, and impact resistance. |
| The diameter of factory exhausts is smaller which reduces power and torque. | Aftermarket exhaust systems come with larger diameters that can improve the flow of exhaust gases for increased engine performance. |
| Factory exhaust systems have a typical muted or mild sound. | By selecting the right type of parts in an aftermarket exhaust system, you can get a distinct and favorable sound. |
7 What Are The Factors I Should Consider Before Buying an Exhaust System?
There are several things that can influence your purchase, such as the design, cost, warranties, laws, issues with fitment, the choice of the wrong exhaust system, the use of a high-performance exhaust system with a low-power engine, etc. When purchasing an exhaust system, there are a few things to keep in mind to make sure it is a perfect fit for your car and meets or exceeds OEM specifications for both performance and affordability.
Compatibility
Most exhaust systems are vehicle-specific, so be sure you know the correct size of the damaged catalytic converter, exhaust pipe, muffler, or resonator before making a purchase. You can also choose an aftermarket exhaust system, which will give your regular vehicle the performance and sound of a race car. Some exhaust components are welded together, but they also come with easy fittings using nuts and bolts, and in some, exhaust clamps are used to connect various exhaust components. This enables the user to swap out the damaged component, which could be the muffler, exhaust pipe, or a rusted resonator.
Sound Level
Some drivers prefer the loudest exhaust systems, but the continual noise might occasionally become irritating if you drive for extended distances. In this situation, you might have to spend additional money to reduce the noise by replacing a few pricey pieces. Decide how loud a particular exhaust system should be on your vehicle for that purpose. Additionally, the exhaust’s high noise is banned in some states and can cause hefty fines.
Brand Choice
When it comes to saving your valuable time, effort, and, of course, money in the long run, choosing a reputable and top brand is always considered the best option. Those who are more knowledgeable about exhaust systems can choose according to their personal preferences, but for those who are less familiar, going with a trusted and top brand is always counted as the best idea.
Checking For Fitment And Leakage
If changing to a performance exhaust system from a factory exhaust system, most of the performance exhaust systems bolt on with no modifications. Still, there are chances that the exhaust system may not fit properly and may need cutting and welding. This kind of work can be a bit expensive. Some states have regulations that prohibit the use of loud exhaust systems. Pollution from a leak or a bad exhaust joint can have a negative impact on the environment.
Close Attention To Warranties
Any exhaust part’s warranty should be carefully read because it is both restricted and particular. Only if there are any manufacturing problems then replacements are offered. Only a few pricey high-performance exhaust pieces come with a one-year warranty. Therefore, you must make a choice and strike a balance between guarantee and cost.
Choosing The Right Material
A variety of materials can be used to create the right exhaust systems. It is crucial that the exhaust system’s components are manufactured from materials that can withstand the stress, high temperatures, and environmental conditions that they are subjected to. Aluminum, mild steel, and stainless steel are the most often used materials. You can save some money by using aluminum or mild steel, which is also lighter and more affordable but more prone to corrosion. The finest exhaust system material for snowy or wet conditions is stainless steel since it resists rust and corrosion.
No Droning
Basically, an exhaust drone is a loud, monotonous noise that resounds throughout the car’s interior as you drive. One of the main motives for sticking with more known brands when shopping is to avoid drones.
8 Which Popular Brand Exhaust Systems Should I Choose?
Magnaflow
Magnaflow exhaust kits are among the most popular brands available. Magnaflow exhaust kits provide the dependable performance you can rely on since they are made using premium materials and put through thorough testing. Because of their meticulous inspection of every component they produce, they can guarantee complete customer satisfaction for both you and your clients.
Flowmaster
Flowmaster gives technicians the edge by innovating every exhaust pipe. Flowmaster engineers focus on making their exhaust kits faster and easier to install and engineer them to provide a longer service life. Using punishing durability testing, they validate every new design to ensure you get the performance you can trust so you can drive the vehicle with confidence.
9 How Much Will It Cost Me For A New Exhaust System?
Once you have completed the inspections, be sure of what you need to replace. It can be your complete exhaust system or just a component like a muffler, resonator, or catalytic convertor. You have the option to choose from a unique brand or the same brand if it suits your budget. Price ranges are different depending on which exhaust component is needed and also vary from one brand to the other. Depending on the vehicle you drive, the complete exhaust system will cost you around $1200 to $1800. While the labour cost is only about $200 to $350. But if you want to replace components such as a muffler or resonator, it will cost around $500 to $700. While the labour cost is only about $80 to $150. The cost of labour may rise if there is additional work such as cutting and welding.
10 How Long Is The Lifespan Of The Exhaust System?
Any vehicle’s exhaust system doesn’t need much repair or special care until it has accumulated more miles or is damaged. Because factory-installed and aftermarket exhaust systems are made of corrosion-resistant stainless steel, most vehicles don’t need to have their exhaust systems repaired for at least eight to ten years, and sometimes longer. However, if parts deteriorate over time, develop holes and leaks, or completely fail due to rust, maintenance may become more frequent and expensive.
