-
- Air Filters
- Alternators
- Batteries
- Camshaft & Valve Train
- Camshafts
- Carburetors
- Cold Air Intakes Systems
- Cylinder Heads
- Differentials
- Distributor
- Engine Components
- Engine Gaskets & Seals
- Engine Top End Kit
- Exhaust Systems
- Fasteners
- Fuel Injection Kits
- Fuel System
- Gauges
- Harmonic Balancer
- Headers
-
- Add-a-Leaf Kits
- Air Bag Compressors
- Air Bag Load Leveling Kits
- Air Bag Replacement Bags
- Air leveling Bag Parts
- Alignment Kits
- Body Lift Kits
- Brake Accessories
- Brake Bleeder Valve
- Brake Calipers, & Disc Brake Conversion Kits
- Brake Hose
- Brake Pads
- Brake Rotors
- Disc Brake Spacer
Performance Aftermarket Exhaust System Buyers Guide
With so many different styles and exhaust system manufacturers on the market, it can be confusing when you are looking to upgrade to a performance exhaust system for your car or truck. Below you will find answers to some of the question you might have when looking to make an aftermarket exhaust purchase. We have done all the leg work for you. Broken down are the types of materials, warranties, styles, sounds, and more so you can concentrate on getting the best setup for your vehicle. A custom aftermarket exhaust can improve the performance, sounds, and look of your car or truck so utilize this guide to pick one that works for you.
What are the aftermarket exhaust options out there?There are generally three types of aftermarket exhaust systems to choose from: turbo-back, cat-back, and axle-back. Not all are available for every make of vehicle. Depending on your make and model, you may only have one or two of these types of applications available. The term -back refers to where the exhaust connection starts and goes 'back' from then on toward the rear of the car. For example, a cat-back exhaust starts at the catalytic converter and travels back and out. Turbo-Back Exhaust SystemUsually found on Diesel Trucks, a Turbo-Back systems is everything the name implies, an exhaust system that includes all the components from the downpipe of the turbo back to the exhaust tip. This is usually the most expensive type of system and only available for vehicles that have a turbo system installed. Cat-Back Exhaust SystemA cat-back exhaust system contains all the necessary components required from the catalytic converter back to the exhaust tip. Cat back exhausts are the most common and have the largest range of availability by application. Often called a 'catback', people use this term to generalize a free-flowing, mandrel bent exhaust system. Axle-Back Exhaust SystemAn axle-back exhaust system is very similar to a cat-back in the respect that it does include all the components necessary for a complete installation but only the components from the rear axle to exhaust tip. The axle-back exhaust is usually cheaper in price than a cat-back exhaust but still delivers similar look and sound improvements. Performance exhaust system "exit" stylesDepending on manufacturer, there can be quite a few different exit styles of performance exhausts to choose from. Before making a decision, keep in mind the performance advantages of an aftermarket exhaust system: improving the scavenging effect of exhaust gases by removing any restriction, thus improving the thermodynamic efficiencies of your engine and causing an increase in total horsepower and torque output.
There are many additional configurations of high performance exhaust exit styles depending on your vehicle. For more information on what is offered by each manufacturer, check out each manufacturer's performance exhaust system page. Aftermarket exhaust buying options and tipsMaterialAn aftermarket exhaust systems is only as good as the material it is made of. They come built from a variety of metals: stainless steel, mild steel, aluminum, even titanium and other high end metals. The main difference is the corrosion resistance and weight. Stainless steel is the only one that resists corrosion completely. Mild steel and aluminum aren't as corrosion resistant, but typically cost less. If you live in a rainy or snowy climate, you should consider a stainless steel system. However, the ultimate in a custom high performance exhaust would be titanium for its ultra light weight. SoundSound is always something to consider when selecting a full aftermarket exhaust system. It is important to decide how you use your car and where. Is it a track only race car or is it the SUV you use to take the kids to school? The differences between a basic standard aftermarket cat back exhaust and a full racing exhaust are huge. All exhaust systems will give your engine a more muscular sound, but they vary in the volume and comfort levels. Most manufacturers offer variations in their exhaust systems and some may not even be legal to use on public roads. There are "mild" or "touring" versions that won't dramatically increase the volume of your exhaust, and there are "sport" or "s-type" versions that are louder and less restrictive. Finally, racing exhaust systems will make note to state ‘for off-road use only.’ InstallationMost aftermarket exhaust systems available offer a simple bolt-on installation. However, there are some exceptions where welding, cutting, and/or custom hangars are required. If you're a competent do-it-yourselfer and plan on installing the system in your garage, you need to make sure you get an exhaust system you are capable of installing. Otherwise, these systems can be installed at your local muffler shop. Take careful note of inlet and outlet diameters if you are doing this at home. If those sizes don’t exactly match your current pipe sizes, you will need specialty pipe expansion tools to install yourself. WarrantyIt is always important to understand the warranty of the product you're buying as they can vary greatly. Most exhaust system manufacturers carry warranties from one year to lifetime of the vehicle and everything in between. Many exhaust systems will come with a warranty card that you will need to fill out and send in to the manufacturer. Some manufacturers even have a form you can fill out and submit on their web site. |
 Stainless steel mandrel bent cat-back full exhaust system from Magnaflow that offers an aggressive tone and a lifetime warranty
Some of our most popular aftermarket exhaust vendors that design custom-fit full exhaust systems for cars, trucks, and SUV are just a click away  Basic single rear exit performance cat back exhaust system and components diagram  True dual rear exit performance exhaust system with x-pipe and quad tips component diagram  2007 Ford Mustang Shelby GT500 with Borla aftermarket exhaust system (dual rear exist tips) Cut away of the Dynomax Super Turbo Muffler |
Best Selling Exhaust System Manufacturers
 
|
Corsa Performance ExhaustsCORSA Performance Exhausts is the premier exhaust system through advanced engineering and innovation. Utilizing the patented RSC technology, CORSA continues to enhance your driving experience by delivering powerful sound and noticeable performance gains without sacrificing the pleasure of cruising in your car, truck or SUV. Since 1998, CORSA has engineered the most advanced exhaust systems in the world. Each exhaust system is custom designed to deliver exactly what the vehicle, and more importantly, the owner needs. The Patented RSC Technology was developed to eliminate drone while at cruising speed. Designed to maximize horsepower, the straight through design is acoustically tuned voice to fit the personality of the vehicle and its driver. Features:
|
 
|
Dynomax Performance ExhaustChoose Dynomax exhausts for great sound and quality at an excellent price. Dynomax mufflers are constructed of only the highest's grade materials and produce the performance sound and consistent results that any enthusiast is looking for. Dynomax has it all: Sound, performance and durability. Features:
|
 
|
MagnaFlow Performance ExhaustMagnaFlow has the dyno-proven exhaust systems for street, off-road and diesel trucks and SUV's. Rugged enough to handle a grueling Baja race or the daily grind of traffic. Each Magnaflow system is designed to be a bolt-on installation and provide years of trouble-free performance. The sound is a smooth, deep ton that's great for SUV's with weekend tow duties to fully modded drag racing diesel pickups. Features:
|
 
|
Roush Performance ExhaustIf your looking for a high performance exhaust for your Ford Mustang or F-150, look no further than Roush Performance. The performance exhaust packages are engineered to improve the sound, power, and fuel efficiency of your car, while also feature upgraded styling to your exhaust tips. Features:
|
 
|
Flowmaster Performance ExhaustThe true tone of American muscle and power performance is defined by Flowmaster. Flowmaster is unmatched in the industry in terms of fit, quality and performance. Exhaust systems are available for those who are looking to maximize their vehicles performance with a mild subdued tone that won't wake the neighbors. For those who want the be heard, the American Thunder series is for them. Flowmaster carries Cat-Back, Axle-Back, and Header-Back configurations, there is a system that will fit your needs. Features:
|
 
|
Borla Performance ExhaustBORLA has long been committed to providing world-class exhaust products to surpass the expectations of their customers. Made in a state-of-the-art test and development center, our exhaust systems are continually improving our manufacturing efficiency and standards. They have pioneered a variety of improvements in the design of performance throughout BORLA's history, Every BORLA Cat-Back system is made from austenitic stainless steel which is far superior to 409 or aluminized steel. All feature mandrel-bent tubing for smooth flow, all-welded construction and is design for an accurate fit and easy installation. Features:
|
 
|
Gibson Performance ExhaustGibson is known for providing the widest range of exhaust products for cars and trucks, for both gas and diesel engine types. Each system is designed to be a simple bolt-on installation and work with the existing dimensions of the car/truck. Every exhaust package is created using T-304 stainless steel with mandrel-bent tubing to maximize the exhaust flow. The baffled and chambered muffler is known to give a torque gain and an increase of 10 - 20 horsepower!. All while producing an authoritative deep exhaust tone. Features:
|
 
|
MBRP Performance Diesel ExhaustThe MBRP exhaust system is proof that you can boost stock power from every vehicle's engine. The MBPR exhaust system is made from 100% heavy-gauge aluminized or stainless steel. This type of quality construction is guaranteed to stand up to the hardest road conditions. MBRP Exhaust Systems are constructed with the highest quality design and craftsmanship to impress the most cost conscious consumer. The exhaust systems come in a variety of configurations to match the specific needs and applications. All the mounting hardware and a comprehensive installation manual is included. Bolt on an MBPR Exhaust System to unleash your engine's hidden potential. Features:
|
Purchase Information
©2010 StreetsideAuto.com. All rights reserved. 651 Armourdale Parkway, Kansas City, KS 66105.
StreetSideAuto.com does not accept liability for typographical or product specification errors (including
pricing). Prices are subject to change without notice.