Enhancing Performance with Exhaust Systems
A significant part of your vehicle’s combustion process involves expelling waste gases. While factory-installed exhaust systems are standard, they often come with restrictions due to stringent regulations. This restrictive nature can adversely affect your vehicle’s performance. Fortunately, upgrading to performance exhaust systems can yield notable enhancements, not only in power but also in achieving a more desirable exhaust sound. In this article, we will delve into the benefits of performance exhaust systems and provide a curated list of the top ten exhaust systems available for your vehicle.
Table of Contents
- 1. MagnaFlow Exhaust System
- 2. Flowmaster Exhaust System
- 3. Pacesetter Exhaust System
- 4. Gibson Exhaust System
- 5. Banks Monster Exhaust System
- 6. JBA Performance Exhaust System
- 7. Corsa Exhaust System
- 8. Hooker Exhaust System
- 9. PaceSetter Monza Exhaust System
- 10. aFe Exhaust System
1. MagnaFlow Exhaust System
MagnaFlow exhaust systems are meticulously engineered to enhance your vehicle’s performance and power. These systems typically feature larger piping and are constructed from high-flow, durable T-409 stainless steel. Upgrading to a MagnaFlow exhaust can result in improved fuel efficiency, enhanced towing torque, and a noticeable increase in base horsepower. Depending on your vehicle, MagnaFlow provides three distinct series: the premium MagnaFlow Series with polished mufflers and double-welded tips, the mid-range XL Series featuring satin finish mufflers and single-walled tips, and the budget-friendly Pro Series, which includes stainless mufflers with tips sold separately.
Warranty
All MagnaFlow exhaust systems are backed by a lifetime warranty.
Pros
- Best value for performance
- Great sound quality
- High-quality construction
Cons
- Higher price point for premium models
- Installation may be complex
2. Flowmaster Exhaust System
Flowmaster exhaust systems are renowned for their robust construction and impressive performance gains. These systems can yield a 5 to 10 percent increase in power while also improving fuel economy. Most Flowmaster components are made from aluminized steel, offering excellent resistance to rust and corrosion, with some kits including stainless steel tips for added durability. Flowmaster features four exclusive exhaust series: the dBX Flowmaster for compact domestic and imported vehicles with 4- or 6-cylinder engines, the Flow FX Series for a powerful, non-chambered tone, the American Thunder series which balances great sound with high performance, and the Outlaw Series, designed to produce an aggressive tone with optimal performance.
Warranty
Flowmaster provides a limited lifetime warranty for stainless steel systems and a limited 3-year warranty for aluminized steel options.
Pros
- Exceptional sound quality
- Noticeable performance improvement
- Relatively easy installation
Cons
- Clamp quality could be improved
- Instruction manual may lack clarity
3. Pacesetter Exhaust System
Pacesetter exhaust systems are distinguished by their innovative design and high-quality craftsmanship. They offer a diverse selection of parts tailored to various exhaust needs, including cat-back systems, diesel configurations, deep-tone variants, manifold setups, and header-back units. Constructed from either aluminized steel or high-quality T409 stainless steel, every Pacesetter exhaust system includes all necessary installation hardware, such as clamps, tubing, and hangers. Customers can select from various muffler types, including glass-packed, turbo, or straight-through designs, as well as different exit styles and pipe diameters to match their preferences and vehicle specifications.
Warranty
Pacesetter offers a 1-year warranty on all systems manufactured.
Pros
- Attractive appearance and sound
- High-performance output
- Good fit for most vehicles
Cons
- Installation may be complicated
- Instructions can be vague
4. Gibson Exhaust System
Gibson provides a variety of exhaust systems made from either hot-dipped aluminized steel or 409-L stainless steel, designed to enhance fuel efficiency by improving miles per gallon while delivering an additional 10 to 20 horsepower. This results in improved overall vehicle performance and efficiency. Gibson exhausts minimize back-pressure and reduce unwanted turbulence, ensuring a smoother driving experience. Options include split rear systems that lower back-pressure and feature dual rear exits, dual extreme exhausts for maximum performance and a louder tone, dual sport Gibson exhausts for optimal performance gains, Gibson swept side exhausts for improved fuel economy with a single exit, and super truck exhausts engineered for maximum power output at 95 decibels.
Warranty
Gibson exhaust systems typically range in price from $200 to $1,700 depending on the specific make and model of your vehicle.
Pros
- Clear performance improvements
- Sturdy construction
- Easy installation process
Cons
- Generally quieter than competing brands
- Noticeable drone at cruising speeds
5. Banks Monster Exhaust System
Each Banks Monster exhaust system comes equipped with all essential components, including tubes, clamps, and hangers for straightforward installation. A standout feature of these systems is their compatibility with factory stock positions. The tubing is designed to lower exhaust gas temperatures, while mandrel-bent construction ensures optimal flow. Banks offers a wide range of kit options, including turbo-back, DPF-back, downpipe-back, and cat-back configurations, with certain models available in single or dual exit setups. Some kits also incorporate the Banks Power Elbow range, and regardless of the variant chosen, all systems are constructed from 100% genuine stainless steel and come with a polished tip for added aesthetic appeal.
Warranty
Banks Monster exhaust systems are covered by a 5-year warranty.
Pros
- Clear and concise installation instructions
- No drone noise inside the vehicle
- Excellent customer support
Cons
- May produce rattling at low RPM
- Muffler installation can be challenging
6. JBA Performance Exhaust System
JBA offers a comprehensive range of exhaust configurations for cars, trucks, and SUVs, all meticulously designed for precision tuning. Utilizing large-diameter pipes and high-grade stainless steel, JBA systems feature mandrel-bent construction that enhances exhaust gas flow. The polished stainless steel tips add a visually appealing finish. Each exhaust system is equipped with high-flow mufflers, fully-welded cases, and factory-style mounting brackets. The exhaust note delivers a deep, powerful rumble upon ignition and continues to resonate as you drive. In addition to performance enhancements, JBA systems are engineered to improve fuel efficiency while boosting both horsepower and torque.
Warranty
JBA Performance exhaust systems come with a 1-year warranty covering defects in materials and workmanship.
Pros
- Premium quality construction
- Helpful and clear installation instructions
- Street-legal in all 50 states
Cons
- Clamps may be somewhat weak
- Installation may be tricky for beginners
7. Corsa Exhaust System
Corsa exhaust systems are designed with innovative features that transform a basic setup into something extraordinary. Constructed entirely from corrosion-resistant stainless steel, these systems feature mandrel-bent tubing to maximize exhaust gas flow. Corsa systems provide significant horsepower gains, improved fuel economy, and reduced back-pressure for a smoother performance. The performance exhaust systems are available in three primary series: the Sport series for an aggressive sound with minimal interior drone, the Touring series for a tone slightly louder than stock, and the Xtreme series tailored for race-focused drivers seeking maximum sound and performance. Each system is specifically designed to fit the make and model of your vehicle.
Warranty
All Corsa exhaust systems come with a lifetime warranty from the manufacturer.
Pros
- Street-legal across all 50 states
- Simple installation process
- Detailed and easy-to-follow instructions
Cons
- Can be relatively expensive
- Some drone may occur in the 2k RPM range
8. Hooker Exhaust System
Hooker exhaust systems are designed to help your vehicle overcome the limitations of stock setups, unlocking additional horsepower and improving fuel efficiency. Available in various configurations, each system is custom-built to meet the exact specifications of your vehicle, providing a perfect balance between performance and fit. The systems are constructed from 304 stainless steel to ensure durability and strength for long-term use. Buyers can select from different configurations, including cat-back, header-back, or axle-back setups. Additionally, select systems come with reducer flex-tubes for easier integration with existing components.
Warranty
All Hooker exhaust systems come with a 90-day limited warranty from the manufacturer.
Pros
- Enhances overall performance
- Produces a great sound
- Durable construction
Cons
- Short warranty period compared to competitors
- Not CARB-approved for use in California
9. PaceSetter Monza Exhaust System
Manufactured in the USA, the PaceSetter Monza exhaust systems offer powerful performance using domestically made components at an affordable price. These systems are constructed from 16-gauge aluminized steel and utilize a mandrel-bent design to ensure fast and efficient exhaust gas flow. Finished in black for corrosion resistance, the exit pipes include sleek chrome tips for an attractive look. Each muffler is custom-designed to fit the specific year, make, model, and type of your vehicle, ensuring reliable performance and an exact fit.
Warranty
Every PaceSetter Monza exhaust system is covered by a limited 3-year warranty from the manufacturer.
Pros
- Highly affordable pricing
- Aesthetic finish
- Incredible sound quality
Cons
- Modifications may be necessary for optimal fit
- Installation and assembly can be challenging
10. aFe Exhaust System
aFe exhaust systems come equipped with practical features such as generously sized mandrel-bent tubes and low exhaust gas temperatures. These well-engineered components fit together seamlessly, enhancing the system’s overall efficiency. The tubing is designed to increase exhaust gas flow by over 35%, resulting in measurable horsepower gains. While most systems are made from aluminized steel, certain models are constructed from 409 stainless steel, providing strong resistance against corrosion and rust. The components are designed for user-friendly installation, and the inclusion of premium-grade clamps gives these systems an edge over others in the market.
Warranty
aFe exhaust systems are backed by a 2-year warranty.
Pros
- Exceptional fit and finish
- Easy installation process
- No drone noise during operation
Cons
- Can be quite expensive
- Adjustments or modifications might be needed for certain installations