Adding an aftermarket exhaust system will de-restrict your car’s piping to increase airflow and power. Whether you choose a cat-back, resonator, or header-back system, it will usually improve your engine performance.
However, the extent to which you will see an improvement in your car’s performance depends on many factors, including what other mods you have done.
1. Increased Horsepower
Many performance exhaust systems are designed to increase horsepower by giving the engine a faster, more efficient route for exhaust gases to escape. This can increase the amount of power generated by the engine and reduce the energy it needs to expend overcoming the resistance of back pressure.
Typically, the larger diameter and straighter exhaust tubing found on aftermarket headers, mid-pipes and tailpipes allow exhaust to flow at a higher velocity, optimizing exhaust scavenging and using heat to help your engine get the most out of every cylinder cycle. While the exact number of horses that you can gain from this type of system may vary slightly, a typical vehicle will see about a 2-5% horsepower increase.
Additionally, a good aftermarket exhaust system can decrease the amount of fuel your engine consumes to achieve its desired output. However, the impact of this is less pronounced than with a horsepower increase and will be dependent on your driving habits, engine type and how you use your vehicle. For example, an axle-back system (which replaces the exhaust system from the rear axle to the muffler) can increase gas mileage without much of an impact on your engine’s power output.
2. Improved Fuel Efficiency
Your factory exhaust system may be designed to muffle sound, but it also restricts the flow of your engine’s gases. The restricted flow creates backpressure, which robs your engine of power. An aftermarket exhaust system reduces this backpressure, allowing your engine to breathe easier and operate more efficiently. This can result in a slight improvement in fuel efficiency, although this is not usually a primary reason to purchase a performance exhaust system.
An aftermarket exhaust system will likely include larger pipes than your stock equipment, which increases airflow into the engine. More airflow allows your engine to burn more of its gas for more power. This can allow you to drive at a lower speed for longer before having to downshift or stop to accelerate again, saving you money on fuel.
While your car’s stock exhaust is made from mild steel, an aftermarket exhaust is typically built of stronger materials, including aluminized and stainless steel. These stronger materials are more durable, reducing the chance of damage or wear. The improved durability of an aftermarket exhaust can help reduce the likelihood of your system developing leaks or other problems over time.
3. More Powerful Acceleration
When it comes to boosting your car’s performance, there are many ways to go about it. One way that most people know about is by installing a new exhaust system. It may seem a little counterintuitive to think that an exhaust would add power, but this is actually the case. The reason is that a less restrictive exhaust will make it easier for the engine to push the gases out of the cylinders. This will result in a quicker acceleration.
However, it’s important to note that this is only true if the exhaust has been properly tuned. It’s not uncommon for a poorly installed aftermarket exhaust to decrease your vehicle’s performance.
To get the best results, you should look for a kit that includes an intake and a power programmer. This will help your car to accelerate faster and work more efficiently overall. It is also worth noting that a performance exhaust will have the most impact on turbo cars, as they already have a lot of power to begin with. However, a good cat-back or downpipe will still provide a significant increase in power on both N/A and turbo cars.
4. More Powerful Sound
Generally speaking, aftermarket exhaust systems increase your horsepower and power output by replacing the piping between your catalytic converter and muffler. These aftermarket systems are known as cat-back or axle-back exhausts, and they are designed to de-restrict airflow in the engine for greater performance.
By increasing the piping diameter, your engine can clear exhaust faster. This means more room for fresh oxygen which helps maximize internal combustion. Depending on the design and dyno testing, some aftermarket systems can add up to 10% of your vehicle’s horsepower.
However, it is important to note that aftermarket parts can void your car’s warranty. As such, you should check with your manufacturer to ensure that the type of exhaust system you are installing will not void your warranty. This will also help you avoid any future issues that could arise from the installation of aftermarket parts. In addition, it is also crucial to ensure that your aftermarket exhaust system is compatible with your vehicle’s electronic valves. This way, you can have full control over your exhaust sound and power output.
5. More Style
Your car’s exhaust system is hidden under the vehicle, making it easy to forget about (unless you are a vehicle enthusiast). But a custom aftermarket exhaust system can make your engine look and sound more powerful.
Performance exhaust systems typically have larger diameter pipes and better construction than their factory counterparts. This allows them to improve air flow, resulting in a significant boost in power.
Aftermarket exhaust systems also reduce back pressure, which increases fuel efficiency. They do this by reducing the energy wasted in trying to overcome back pressure. While this won’t have a huge impact on fuel efficiency, it can help to lower your gas consumption.
Another benefit of aftermarket exhaust systems is their ability to provide more style to your car. Many aftermarket systems come with oversized tips and highly polished mufflers that can give your car a more aggressive and muscular look. Some systems even have different tuning options, allowing you to control the sound of your engine. Whether you choose a cat-back or axle-back exhaust kit, the new sound will be sure to impress drivers and onlookers alike.
