When to Replace Custom Exhaust

While they might not be as common as lift kits and big tires, custom exhaust systems are another super popular upgrade in the customization community. And adding a custom exhaust system is about much more than just a pipe, it’s a part of your vehicle’s personality — both visually and auditorily. Yet much like any other automotive component, even the best custom exhaust systems aren’t going to last forever. If you have your build for a long time, there’s a chance you may eventually need to replace your custom exhaust system, so today we’re going to help you figure out when it might be time to do just that.

Usually one of the first signs that something is off with your exhaust is if it doesn’t sound quite right. Since you added a custom system, you likely know exactly what your vehicle should sound like. So if your once-deep rumble has changed to a raspy or tinny sound, or is suddenly much louder than usual, you should recognize that something might be wrong. This change in sound could be a result of a few different things, including:

• A cracked muffler or resonator
• Exhaust leaks around joints or welds
• A failing catalytic converter

Unfortunately, this audible adjustment is often accompanied by a drop in performance. You might start to notice less throttle response, reduced horsepower or possibly even less fuel efficiency around the same time that the sound changes. In either event, it’s time to get your custom exhaust system inspected.

Nothing on your vehicle is immune to the effects of wear and tear, especially if you take it off-roading or drive it through the winter months when road salt can wreak havoc on your undercarriage. While surface rust is normal over time and relatively benign, if you notice things like flaking metal, holes or outright corrosion near welds, something more serious could be going on. Left untreated, corrosion can eat completely through your pipes and compromise the structural integrity of your system. We recommend inspecting your exhaust system once a year so that you can see these visible warning signs early if they happen.

Perhaps the most obvious sign that it’s time to replace your custom exhaust system is if your tailpipe starts scraping on driveways or speed bumps. This means you could have loose hangers or mounting brackets, a misaligned system due to worn bushings or even damage from road debris or an unrealized impact. These things might also materialize in the form of rattling sounds whenever you accelerate, so listen for that as well. The good news is these issues can typically be addressed with adjustments or repairs, but if the problems persist it might be a sign that the whole system has warped or shifted and needs to be replaced.

Naturally, the exhaust system is often to blame if you fail an emissions test or similar inspection. These failures can typically be attributed to a failing catalytic converter or perhaps an undetected exhaust leak, as either event can increase emissions.