If you’re looking to boost the power in your car, but you’re not sure if an aftermarket exhaust is right for you, don’t fret. We’ve got some information here for you. In the article below we’ll discuss some of the pros and cons to help make your decision that much easier.
Pros and Cons of Aftermarket Exhausts
The good news is that these aftermarket systems can be tailored to your needs. For example, if you need a high-performance system that produces a louder sound for your vehicle, you can opt for an aftermarket exhaust that is made out of a material that allows it to hold up against daily punishment. Likewise, you can choose to install standard mufflers whenever you want to maintain the stock look on your car’s exterior.
Depending on the model you choose, one aftermarket exhaust system will be usually costlier than another. However, it’s important to remember that price is relative and will largely depend on the specifications of each particular system. The key is to select the model that best suits your needs. The good news is that there are a number of aftermarket exhaust systems available for most models, including American cars, BMWs, and other sporty European vehicles.
However, it’s important to remember that while these aftermarket systems may very well produce higher horsepower and torque numbers than the stock exhausts that come with your car, they won’t necessarily improve gas mileage as much as you might expect. In many cases they will actually worsen your gas mileage due to the decreased backpressure which is lowered by these aftermarket systems.
If you’re worried about damage to your vehicle, the good news is that the aftermarket exhaust doesn’t really cause harm to an engine. Although any excessive driving can wear an engine down. Most aftermarket systems come with a warranty. Some warranties are good for two years while others go as far as five years. This gives you plenty of time to make sure everything is working properly before incurring any costly repairs.
Now, let’s take a look at some specific benefits and disadvantages of aftermarket exhausts!
Benefits of an Aftermarket Exhaust
Aftermarket exhaust systems are commonly designed to extract exhaust more efficiently from the vehicle’s engine, resulting in higher horsepower and torque numbers. This is generally accomplished by decreasing backpressure. This means that the exhaust gases are able to escape the combustion chamber quicker. This in turn allows the cylinder to be filled with clean air and fuel for better power. After having an aftermarket system installed on a vehicle, you should feel the car accelerating at a faster rate than normal and hear it roaring as well. The exhaust tone made by these systems has been described as “aggressive” and “growly. “
In terms of visual appearance, aftermarket exhausts tend to look more aggressive than stock mufflers. They are often made out of polished stainless steel and feature sculptured tips that often resemble the shape of a bull’s horn or lips. There are a variety of different styles available to satisfy every taste and budget. For example, you can choose between single or dual exhaust. If you are looking for something a little more extreme you can get a side or hood exhaust.
Some aftermarket exhaust systems also include a series of noise-absorbing materials inside the piping. These materials transform the engine’s exhaust note into a quieter, but still powerful sound that doesn’t annoy any neighbors in your area. They are often called sound deadeners or silencers, which sound a little less intimidating than the more vulgar term of “gutless muffler.”
For those looking to save a bit of money on their next exhaust system installation, there are many aftermarket mufflers and tips available that are relatively inexpensive and can be installed with relative ease in just under an hour. However, installation time will vary on different vehicles and may vary depending on your car’s year or model year.
There are also custom-made exhaust systems available that are all the rage for those who want to go entirely wild with their custom car. These custom systems are made from polished titanium, stainless steel, or even carbon fiber. Essentially these exhausts are made to make your car look like a race car and it’s definitely a cost-effective way to get the look and power you desire.
Custom Exhausts
There is also an important distinction between aftermarket exhaust systems and a custom exhaust. The former offers enhanced performance and sound while the latter will add style points to your vehicle’s exterior. Installing a custom exhaust, for example, will give your vehicle an entirely new look that will separate it from all the other models on the road. In fact, many owners who get a custom exhaust installed on their vehicle opt to hide the system for daily use and show it off only when they want to.
Disadvantages of Aftermarket Exhaust Systems
One of the biggest drawbacks is that aftermarket systems can be extremely noisy depending on the size, length and construction. This means that some people can even hear the aftermarket system you have installed from several blocks away! Luckily, there are steps you can take to solve this problem. For example, you can simply replace the exhaust tips with standard mufflers. This will keep backpressure to a minimum while lowering sound level significantly.
Another disadvantage of aftermarket exhaust systems is that they are often difficult to maintain over the long term. For example, stainless steel exhaust tips are susceptible to dents and scratches, which makes for a rather unsightly appearance. The same can be said for the pipes themselves as well. Some people have complained that their pipes can rust or corrode over time, causing them to tarnish or peel off completely, leaving ugly rusted patches behind.
Another major disadvantage is that aftermarket exhausts can be rather expensive. This may not be a problem for those who have money to burn, but for the average consumer, this can be an issue, especially if you plan on upgrading your exhaust every few months.
Even more discouraging is the fact that aftermarket exhaust systems can be rather difficult to install at times. In fact, most people do not have the mechanical skills necessary to install these systems and as a result, are forced to use professional assistance. If you are one of those people, be prepared to shell out an extra $100 or more for installation!
In most cases, even professional installation will also void your warranty if the system itself was not purchased from your dealer. This can be particularly disappointing because some aftermarket exhausts are designed specifically for certain makes and models and it is possible that they may not fit your car properly.
Other disadvantages include increased fuel consumption, as well as the potential for engine damage if power levels are too high or not enough backpressure is produced. Of course, this depends on your driving habits. From less acceleration to decreased gas mileage, there are many negatives that can accompany these systems. If you constantly find yourself stuck in traffic or just need to get from point A to B as quickly as possible, aftermarket exhaust systems may not be the way to go. Before installing an aftermarket exhaust system, you should read up on previously installed systems so you can judge whether or not it will fit your car’s performance.
If you are considering an aftermarket exhaust system for your car, it is recommended that you consult with your local automotive mechanic first to ensure that this will not affect the way the car drives. This is especially true if you plan on modifying the car to meet street racing standards or for use in a drag racing competition. Know your limits!
Buying an exhaust system can be a smart idea for anyone who wants to improve their car’s exterior while also enhancing its performance. It’s important to note that there are many advantages and disadvantages of all different types of exhaust systems, so be sure to understand both sides before making a purchase.
