Exhaust Pipes & Related

FAQs Concerning Exhaust Pipes

What does the exhaust system do?
Exhaust pipes play an important role in carrying harmful exhaust gases away from the vehicle instead of allowing them to enter the cabin air.
What are the components of the exhaust system?
The system includes the exhaust manifold, oxygen (O2) sensor, catalytic converter, muffler and exhaust systems tail pipe and component-connecting exhaust pipes. There may be more than one of each of these parts depending on the engine design. Is it difficult to change exhaust pipes?
Depending on the type of exhaust pipes or systems purchased, the installation can be easy or difficult. Axle-back systems will take much less time than header-back systems.

Signs You Need A New Exhaust Pipe

• Decreased gas mileage
• Exhaust getting louder
• Engine misfiring
• Condensation dripping from exhaust pipes
• Exposure to snow/ice salts
  If you have one or more of these problems, you may need new exhaust pipes.

Types of Exhaust Pipes

There are many types of exhaust pipes one can put on their car or truck. Some are built as standard replacements for stock exhaust pipes whereas others are made for performance applications.

• Header-Back Exhaust Pipes replace all parts from the header to the tail pipe and can be very expensive.
• Cat-Back Exhaust Pipes replace all parts from the catalytic converter to the tail pipe and are less expansive.
• Axle-Back Exhaust Pipes also provide horsepower improvements and a different sound, but are much less expensive and easier to install yourself.
• Dual Exhaust vs. Dual-Tip Exhaust: Dual exhaust has two distinct exhaust pipes from the header or catalytic converter to the exhaust pipe tips, whereas the dual-tip exhausts have two tips at the end of one exhaust pipe extending back from the header.

How to Install an Exhaust Pipe

How far back in the exhaust system you decide to replace will determine how intricate or simple it will be to install an exhaust pipe. If the only part of the system you're touching is the muffler and exhaust pipe tips, then it's a simple job requiring only a few hours of time. Header-back systems may take a few days for first-time DIYers.

1. Jack up your vehicle, ensure stability
2. Determine which parts are being replaced
3. Test fit your parts to ensure they'll work
4. Unbolt previous exhaust system from car
5. Starting from the front of the car and working back, install new components
6. Start vehicle and test for leaks
   Buy exhaust pipes online or visit your local Advance Auto Parts store and have one of our knowledgeable Team Members help you.

Additional FAQs

I'm looking for a specific sound from my exhaust pipes, can Advance Auto Parts help me?
Yes! Read Rich Ellis's article about Muffler Methodology: Getting the Sound You're After.
Is there a good reason why I should replace my exhaust pipe system?
Yes! Check out The Advance Auto Team's 'Tuner Notes' on Why Replace an Exhaust System.
Can my exhaust pipe play a part in increasing horsepower?
Yes! Check out Rich Ellis's DIY guide to Ways to Boost Power Without Breaking the Bank.