How Much Should An Exhaust System Cost?
Cost has two components – parts and labor. Here are some good rough estimates for both.
Exhaust System Parts Costs
Most after-market exhaust companies offer four types of components:
- Cat-back exhaust systems – anywhere from $300 to $1200 – The final cost will depend on steel thickness and type, as well as muffler quality.
- Axle-back exhaust systems – same as above
- High performance mufflers – $75-$300 – The quality of the muffler’s materials inside, as well as the type of steel and thickness used, impact the final price.
- Exhaust system tips – $25-$150 per tip – Almost all cat-back or axle-back systems include a quality exhaust tip. However, if you’re building your own system, you can purchase an exhaust tip to “dress up” your factory pipe.
The schematic below shows where the “cat” (a.k.a. catalytic converter) is in relation to the engine. While many companies sell high-performance catalytic converters, they are fairly expensive and usually don’t restrict exhaust flow too much, so we’re not going to worry about them here.
This is a stylized schematic of an exhaust system.
On some vehicles, the muffler is mounted behind the rear axle. In this case, exhaust manufacturers sell “axle-back” systems. The only difference between a cat-back and an axle-back exhaust is the length of tubing – both include a new muffler. Therefore, there’s not a lot of cost difference between the two. Both cat-back and axle-back systems include tubing, a muffler(s), and then all the hardware needed to mount the new system in place of the factory system. Most of the time, these systems use the factory exhaust hangers to make install as easy as possible.
Since a high-performance muffler is a part of a cat-back or axle-back exhaust system, buying a muffler by itself is usually the least expensive option in terms of parts cost. Keep in mind, however, that mufflers have higher labor costs. They’re not necessarily less expensive by the time all the labor costs have been accounted for.
Muffler Only vs. Cat-back or Axle-back
The biggest advantage in purchasing a full cat-back or axle-back system is that install is really simple. Many of these systems can be installed at home with basic tools. Conversely, installing a muffler at home may not be so simple – cutting and welding may be required. What’s more, some after market mufflers require significant re-routing of your stock exhaust tubing…and that can get expensive very quickly.
The other advantage in a full cat-back or axle-back system is that they are often tuned to your specific vehicle and the included muffler(s). All things being equal, a cat-back or axle-back system will perform slightly better than a muffler only.
Stainless Steel vs Aluminized or Galvanized Steel
The main difference between a stainless steel exhaust system and an aluminized or galvanized system is durability. Stainless systems will last a lifetime due to their ability to resist corrosion, with 200 300 series stainless systems being more resistant than 300 200 series systems (only the difference is slight). Some manufacturers will try and convince you that one type of stainless system (200, 300, or 400) has better sound quality than another, but there’s no evidence we’re aware of to support these claims. In fact, stainless steel tends to be slightly thinner than aluminizied steel. If anything, an aluminized system may have better sound quality.
Having said that, the muffler itself is the biggest factor in sound. The steel used in the system isn’t as important as some make it out to be (at least in terms of sound quality).
When it comes to choosing between stainless and aluminized systems, it’s important to consider your local environment. If you live in an area where corrosion risks are high (such as cold-weather areas that use salt to de-ice roadways), stainless steel may be a reasonable upgrade because it will resist rust. On the other hand, if your local environment is dry and the corrosion risks are low, the only reason to buy a stainless system is for looks.
Exhaust Tips
There are probably thousands of different exhaust system tips available. Generally speaking, you get what you pay for. Stainless steel tips are very resistant to corrosion, but they don’t shine up as nicely as chrome. Also, stainless steel tips are more likely to “blue”, or change color during use. Titanium is also a material used to make exhaust tips – it’s incredibly corrosion resistant, but just like stainless it’s prone to blue during use. If you like the blue coloring, titanium is probably your best choice. If you want the shiny look, chrome is the way to go. If you want a tip that you can shine up every once in a while – but that’s also resistant to the elements – stainless is a smart choice.
Exhaust System Labor Costs
If you purchase a cat-back or axle-back exhaust system, labor costs are often very low. These systems bolt-on and use the existing factory hangers. In fact, many performance shops will install a cat-back exhaust system free of charge if you purchase it directly from them.
If you decide you want to purchase a muffler only, you’ll want to get an install estimate from your local exhaust shop BEFORE you buy that muffler. Sometimes, installation is very straightforward and the cost is as little as $100. Other times, fabrication is required and the cost can be as high as $300 (or more). If the installation requires a lot of fabrication, you may be better off buying a cat-back or axle-back system instead.
if i have a fx35 and i want to have more sound in my car, what is the best exhaust for me?
thanks a lot in advance,
Kamil
if you just want sound from your car, get something cat back, but dont worry about changing the cat its self, either that or just get a muffler. For my old lancer, to get a sports muffler installed was like $150 including muffler (buying muffler from the one shop and getting them to install in the same moment).
That was from Midas in Sydney (bankstown).
Eric – Completely agreed. If you’re just looking for better sound, a muffler from your local muffler shop will work. The only reason to invest in a cat-back system is if you’re looking for power and/or gas mileage. Good comment.
my new exhaust system is getting fitted as i speak… i hope it lasts longer than the old one :s
I just want to state that your assertion that 200 series stainless steel has more corrosion resistance than 300 series stainless steel is false. The level of Chromium and Molybdenum content is directly proportional to the level of corrosion resistance and 200 series stainless has less than 300 series stainless of both elements. 200 series Stainless Steel has documented corrosion issues and is much less expensive than 300 series Stainless Steel due to the lower Nickle content. 304 and more so 316 Stainless Steel is the most corrosion resistant stainless certified by the AISI.
Ezareth – You are correct. Not sure if I mis-read that or if I found some bad info, but either way it was wrong. I fixed it. Thank you.
Hi I just had a question, first I have a 2015 Chevy volt and its super fast 0 to 100 in seconds and its half gas half electric, you can’t tell its even on unless air or heat is used due to a fan coming on to keep the engine cool why I have no idea but anyway I am in love with the noise from some of the cars in my area in elk Grove California and I want my car to sound like that, that loud loud sound usually sport cars has or some trucks so question is can I have that done to my car and what would be a normal price just to have that sound? Thank you
I know that no major aftermarket makes an exhaust system that fits to my car. Well that I know of… I own a 1998 Camry. I’ve been customizing it for years to be a sleeper. Well it’s a custom supercharged with a stock 1mzfe 3.0L. And for those of you not willing to do research that’s the normal v6 for that year of Camry (not the supercharger). I want to replace work that was previously done to install a muffler that turned out not to be as great as it claimed. Well, that’s how it goes with all aftermarket products, but I’m wondering if anyone knows any company that make a half decent exhaust system (not just the muffler, everything including headers) that will fit in my car without having to change its factory mounts under the car. The changes made to make the muffler fit can be fixed very easily I made sure of that when they installed and started welding everything. Ik many cars don’t have to be changed to add an exhaust system. Just a few bolts here and there but finding one that fits is a challenge for me. And if I can’t find one how much is it going to cost to make one fit?
Hey guys I have a Ford Falcon xr6 2005 model and I want the best advice on which exhaust system to install
Mjay – Tuned cat-back systems are best. I have no idea which one.
I want to get a complete exhaust system for my 2001 VX SS Holden commodore 5.7 to increase power gain and get that classic V8 tone but don’t know much about the specifications and cost to fit, and which system best suits my needs. I also live close to the sea’ what options do I have to choose from?
John.
John – We don’t sell them, but suffice to say you want a tuned cat back system from a major brand. Does Flowmaster or Magnaflow or Borla offer systems in Australia? If so, that would be the place to start.
I have a 2013 chevy camaro ss i am looking for just sound. I checked on ebay and the sell axle back ….is this what i need?
Shawn – That will do it. A set of mufflers is even cheaper, however, so if you’re just looking for sound that might be the way to go.
Hi, I’m looking to buy a 2000 Pontiac Grand Prix for 1800. I was told that the exhaust needs to be replaced. Unfortunately, I’m a woman that doesn’t know anything about cars, so this might be a stupid question to most. Is this car worth buying and if so, how much am I looking to spend on getting the exhaust replaced?
Thanks for any feedback you may have
Cedricka – A new exhaust runs $500 (max), and sometimes half that. Depends on the car and what’s damaged.
Having said that, if you need a new exhaust manifold, that’s a different story.
My advice: Get it inspected by a professional used vehicle inspector. They’ll be able to give you a list of items and cost estimates for each.
Hey,
I’m looking to get a Flowmaster Super 10 installed on my Ram Rebel. Was told this would be roughly 3 hours worth of labour from a local shop. Is it worth getting the muffler installed when it could be coating $400-500 after all is said and done? Or am I better off getting a full system put on.
Thanks
Have a 1987 irocz28 with305 engine what exhaust should I buy?
Hello, I have a 1972 Camaro rally sport and I want it to be really loud, from cold start to sitting at a light, I have about 3,500 to spend. what should I do?
Travis – Really loud and you don’t care, or really loud but not so loud as to get a ticket?
If it’s the latter, you might think about exhaust cut-outs and then an appropriately sized dual exhaust based on our chart here: https://www.exhaustvideos.com/faq/how-to-calculate-muffler-size-pipe-diameter/
The cutouts are a little pricey (at least if you get the electric cutouts), but they’re great at the strip and fun on a Friday night.
What is the best Exhaust system to put on a bmw 750Li
I’m looking to gain more power and sound for a 2014 impala limited lt..what should I use??what is average cost??
I have 1998 holden berlina , i wana increase power and noise, dual fuel system just wondering what system would best suit what im after,
Thanks
Caitlin – No idea. Not sure who makes parts for the Holden in your neck of the woods.
2000 dodge dakota 4.7 magnum, want a nice sounding tone, not sure which muffler would sound best?
My car needs a complete exhaust system replacement starting from catalytic converter to exhaust tip. I have a 98 Camry. My mechanic is quoting $750 for the work. Is it a right cost for this work? I don’t have much knowledge on cars. Please help. Thank you.
Curid – This seems reasonable, especially if the quote includes an OEM catalytic converter.
Looking to put an ARK performance exhaust on my veloster turbo should i purchase from he shop and install all in one or buy it separate?
Regen – I’m a big fan of installing tuned cat-back systems with proven performance benefits. I’ve never heard of ARK, but if they’re offering a tuned system with dyno testing as proof, I’m sure it’s fine.
But if it’s a “universal” type system, beware. A poorly designed exhaust can hurt performance.
Hey I have a fully stock 2014 Mitsubishi Lancer and am looking to increase the sound. What would be my best option, I don’t need power and performance but just for the car to sound loud and clean.
Thank you in advance!
I have a 2007 ford taurus se and the exhuast broke from the bolt on flex pipe and i just wondering the cost for it to be weilded back to the bolt gasket.
I have a 2012 Camry se v6 want to install a stainless steel very hard to find can anyone help?
Josh – That’s going to be tough to find. If you can’t find a bolt-on kit from AutoAnything, Summit Racing, etc., I’d suggest contacting the exhaust system manufacturers directly. They may have a bolt-on kit for a Lexus that could be slightly modified.
My exhaust pipe cracked from muffler to exhaust tip. It sounds kinda cool on my 07 civic. I want to get a performance exhaust just for hell of it wider pipe from headers. What would total cost be parts installation
Josh – A new cat-back system usually costs $500-1000. Headers cost about the same amount. If you want to replace the factory catalytics – or remove them – that will run you as little as $200 and as much as $1000 for a set of high perf catalytic converters. Labor shouldn’t be too bad – 5-10 hours at $100 an hour or so.
All told, it’s between $1200 on the low end (going with low cost headers, cat-back, leaving the factory cats, and install), and $4000 on the high end (replacing everything).
Honestly, if I had a 2007 Civic I was interested in modifying, and if I had a few grand to spend, I’d probably look at an engine swap. They’re getting easier and easier because the after-market is supporting them with parts. You can start here: http://www.hondashowoff.com/forums/showthread.php?t=12485
If you don’t have a lot of money to spend, than my advice is to replace the cracked tubing (it’s a carbon monoxide poisoning risk), upgrade the muffler, and save your pennies. 🙂
I have a 2004 Grand Prix and needs new exhaust system what should it cost me I am retired and want to know a fair price.
Cindy – If you need a replacement exhaust and aren’t concerned about anything more than function, you might be able to get something for $300-$500.
I have vx ss and i wont a full system from extracters right through dont no if i shoud go 3/12 or 2inch what cost am i looking at whith mild steel
Hey guys, sorry if I’m posting this in the wrong spot but I need assistance. I own a 2004 VW passat 1.8T. Unfortunately automatic. I want to get an aftermarket exhaust system and don’t know where to start. What suggested cat back systems would you guys recommend? Also, anybody from the Cincinnati Ohio area able to recommend a good shop? Looking for sound, and performance without breaking the bank. Thanks
Shawn – EuroSportTuning.com. Send them a message, or call and ask for Frank. Those guys have forgotten more about European performance than most shops know! 😉
Want to 3″ headers and exhaust to rear adding dual exhaust. Looking for approximate estimate
I got charged 2400.00 for an exhaust system for a 2003 Honda Accord. I feel I was ripped off. They said it was the car had California emissions
Joe – A full end to end replacement of an 03′ Accord exhaust might cost $2500, assuming you use OEM parts and/or have some other problems.
I don’t know for sure, but you could probably get the whole system done for $1000-$1500 if you went with the cheapest after-market parts you could find. But this assumes you don’t care about performance, and that you don’t have any offer issues (like ruined oxygen sensors, missing or damaged hangers, etc). If you got a performance setup for that – and it included some upgraded catalytic converters – I’d say that’s a good deal.
I have a 2000 Honda Civic DX L4 that I took to a mechanic as it was making a very loud noise. They said I needed a new exhaust system (cat-back). I was given an estimate of $381. Does this sound reasonable? I am living in a new area and don’t have a regular mechanic that I feel I can trust.
Diane – If you need an entire replacement exhaust from the cat back, $800 is reasonable if it includes labor. $400 is a great price.
Hi Jason,
I have a 2016 Maxima. I do a fair amount of driving (12k miles in 8 months) so I’m looking for something that will both boost performance and give off a sexy tone (not looking for anything TOO loud (suburbia) but I definitely want to hear it when I give it some gas). I plan on hitting some shops and start getting estimates soon, but I wanted to get your take on suggestion and potential cost.
Thanks!
JB – I’d suggest an air intake instead of an exhaust. Most 4 and 6 cylinder engines don’t sound very good without a really radical muffler (which is loud).
An aftermarket air intake, on the other hand, sounds great at wide open throttle.
Both will help with fuel economy, but the intake will probably make more of a difference.
Wondering what a flowmaster exhaust system would cost on a 2013 Silverado. Any help would be appreciated
Nathan – A full system is $800 or so. A muffler only is $200 or so.
Hey Jason
I have a 2012 toyota camry se…I really want to put a Borla exhaust. However, I keep finding that it doesn’t fit that model. I’ve seen a couple of youtube videos of the ’12 Camry with a borla exhaust and I love it. Do you have any suggestions regarding my choice or do I need to look for something else.
Thanks in advance
Mark – I’d either a) install a borla muffler or b) look for a different brand that fits your car.
Buying a tuned exhaust system that fits your specific vehicle is always best. If you try and fabricate something, you can create bottlenecks in the system. One crush bent pipe, for example, can reduce the gas flow rate 10%.
Hey. I have a 2010 tk Holden Barina Sedan. I want it to sound really nice, but the current stock exhaust is tucked away underneath. The rear bumper has no cut out and aftermarket body kits are expensive and rare. Suggestions?
Zach – Sorry, no idea. My expertise is limited to North American vehicles.
what exhaust system would be best for a 2010 hyundai elantra?
Justin – A tuned cat-back system with a dyno chart showing horsepower and torque gains. I usually point people to Magnaflow, Flomaster, Borla, Gibson, Corsa, or another major brand like that.
I got a 2013 Dodge Charger sxt the get up and go blows but after the gears start switching it hauls butt I was wonder how to enhance the get up go increase speed and sound without breaking the bank what should I change to increase to speed and the get up and go
Chris – If you’ve got the V6, my advice is to save your money and trade it in for a V8.
If you’ve got the V8, I’d suggest exhaust, air intake, and engine tuner. You can do these things on a V6 too, but they won’t make it “fast.” That car is too heavy for a V6.
2004 Toyota Matrix AWD.
Needs new exhaust system from cat to tip.
Need california emissions parts.
Quoted 1700 after labor.
Rip or reasonable?
Don – Sounds like a lot for what amounts to a muffler and some steel tubing. Have you looked for an aftermarket cat-back exhaust online? You can mount it yourself on the factory hangers and spend $500-$800.
I have a 2017 mustang V6 what exhaust brand will be the best for me and make lots of sound? Thanks.
Alex – You might check out Corsa or Borla, but the truth is there are a ton of companies making decent axle-back exhausts for that car. You can’t go wrong as long as you go with a name brand.
I have a 2007 F150
My exhaust is real loud at first then quiets down but I can smell exhaust fumes in the truck, what do you think is wrong & how much to fix?
Martin – You definitely have an exhaust leak somewhere. You need to get this fixed ASAP, as an exhaust leak can kill you (no shit).
Be sure to crawl under your car and look for a hole in the exhaust. Based on what you’re describing, I’d guess you’ve got perforation (rust) in the muffler that is quieting down once things get hot.
It’s a cheap fix, so please don’t hesitate to get it done.
I am glad for commenting to make you be aware of what a fantastic experience my friend’s child experienced reading the blog. She realized some pieces, with the inclusion of what it is like to possess a marvelous coaching mindset to get men and women just learn about chosen complex things. You undoubtedly exceeded people’s desires. Many thanks for coming up with these useful, safe, edifying and also easy guidance on this topic to Tanya.
I have a Chevy Volt… The freeway miles leave a LOT to be desired (especially compared to 250+MPGs in town). Would a high flow muffler reap any rewards?
So I have a Nissan Maxima 98 GLE and I want to start making some slight adjustments to it, starting with the exhaust. Do you recommend getting a Straight pipe or a muffler? If you think something else will work better then I’d appreciate your advice. I want to make it loud but not too loud. Thanks in advance.
I have a 2004 chevy trailblazer ls. just wanted to know how much would it cost to replace the exhast from the muffler to the tail pipe…and would stainless steel be the best way as opposed to aluminized steel because of it being a non corrosive metal.? Also would like to point out that i live in new england. The weather here changes often
Juan – Everything including the catalytics could be $2k. If you just need tubing and mufflers, you could get that for $500-$750.
Considering the age of the vehicle, alumnized is probably fine…you never know what else can go wrong, and a nice stainless system doesn’t do you much good if you’ve got to scrap the car. 🙂
Hi I’ve got a Honda civic 2017 ’67’ plate so new shape. It’s an SE model and has a 1.0L turbo motor. I. Looking to improve performance. Will put a cold air intake and wait till the warranty voids before getting it mapped. I want to find out what type of exhaust should I get to improve performance and all the extras with prices. I’m staying in the UK by the way.
Thanks
Marin – My advice is to purchase a tuner from a company that also offers a tuned exhaust, air intake, etc. for your Honda. That way, they’ll probably have a tune mapped for their exhaust and intake that will maximize both.
However, when it comes to Honda, there aren’t a lot of tuning options…so you may have to just go with a name brand exhaust and hope for the best. Since you’re in the UK, your exhaust brand options are different. I don’t have a recommendation. Good luck!
I have a 1997 Chevy K1500 and bout a new stainless steel dual in/out flowmaster super 40 since my aluminized muffler rusted out and I was wondering what would general cost to have it installed with dual stainless steel exhaust pipes straight out the back under the bumper? I will also prove stainless steel tips.
Ben – Couple hundred bucks maybe, assuming you find a local muffler shop with a good labor rate. Depends on whether or not they have to weld, how busted up the factory hangers are, etc.
I am in need of a cat back replacement for a 2002 Dodge Ram 1500 Quadcab with the 5.9… I am trying the best way to do a cost comparison and am not having any luck. Can you give me the average price to replace everything from the cat back? I do want a little rumble…lol Y pipe to a single catalytic converter, tail pipe, muffler, and nice tip.
Buddy – Cat back kits that hang on the factory hangers run $800-1200, depending on the material and layout. You can have a local muffler shop build you a custom exhaust for less, but they don’t use mandrel bends, so they aren’t quite as good as the kits you buy and install on the factory hangers.
I just got an estimate from my Subaru dealer for my 2013 Subaru Impreza Sport Premium 5 Dr for a ” Cat-back”.
They told me $850-950. Does this sound correct to you.
Should I consider going to a Midas or something.
Thanks–ken
Ken – It’s not too crazy. Most of the systems cost $600-$800, and then you have labor on top of that.
I have a full stock ’99 Integra (I’m a beginner to the car scene) and I was wondering what exhaust system was good best for sound and power gains, yet remaining street legal? And what kind of ballpark range I’d be looking at. Thanks all.
Eric – Fun car! I had one of those myself once upon a time (GS-R).
Anyways, the best thing to do is find a catback that’s designed for your specific vehicle. They aren’t cheap (usually about $1000, sometimes less), but they work great, sound good, and add power.
Contemplating replacing twin system on my 75 c3 corvette , straight pipes ,mufflers and 2 hotdogs for a nice sound what would be a ball park figure
Geoff – If it’s mandrel bent tubing, you could spend $1,000. If you go with a crush bend system at your local muffler shop, you could get it for half that or less.
Hi, I have a 2006 Acura MDX. I was rear ended and both my Rt and left mufflers need to be replaced. The estimate with the OEM parts was 2,100. just for the Rt muffler! I would like to go much cheaper. Is this possible? I know very little about cars. What should I look for in a replacement muffler? One shop quoted me $500! So why the big difference? I’m concerned If a cheap muffler is installed I could get poor performance or somehow cause more damage to my car.
I would really appreciate some advice.
Thank you
Kerry – If you get an OEM exhaust, you’re basically buying all your parts from the dealership. It gets pricey.
A bare bones replacement exhaust from your local muffler shop won’t cost more than $500 (honestly, you can probably spend less), and while it might not sound exactly the same, it will be good enough.
The main reason for the cost difference is parts mark-up on OEM parts, but OEM parts tend to be a little higher quality too. But for a 2006? You don’t need to make a big investment. It’s only got a few years left anyways. 🙂
Hey,
I’m looking to get a Flowmaster Super 10 installed on my Ram Rebel. Was told this would be roughly 3 hours worth of labour from a local shop. Is it worth getting the muffler installed when it could be coating $400-500 after all is said and done? Or am I better off getting a full system put on.
Thanks
How much to replace Exhaust system on 07 Nissan Altima
What would you recommend for a 2013 Dodge Charger?
How much is it for a total exhaust system on a 1998 ford f-150
4.2 motor stick shift 4 speed plus over drive
Hey I have a 2010 camaro ss and I want it to be as loud as possible and as cheap as possible because I’m 16 and paying off the car myself already and can’t afford a expensive one, I was wanting to get a full straight pipe but I’m not sure how much it would all cost. Can you help me out please.
Hi I have a 2003 gmc Yukon 1500 and need muffler and exhaust how much will this cost me?
I have a 2021 kia sorento with a 4inch exhaust cuved down exhaust pipe would like a chrome tip. Is this something you can do.
I just purchased a 2005 Chevrolet Suburban LT 5.3 ENGINE. I want to go to dual exhaust. What do you recommend? Thanks