Question 1

How much does an aftermarket exhaust kit cost?

Accepted Answer

It depends. For high-quality systems designed for optimal performance, like the ones offered by Integrated Engineering, prices can range from several hundred to a few thousand dollars or more.

Question 2

How much horsepower will a performance exhaust add?

Accepted Answer

The horsepower gain from installing a performance exhaust system can vary, but it's not uncommon to see increases of 5-20 horsepower, depending on the vehicle and the exhaust system's design.

Question 3

How does exhaust backpressure affect engine performance, and how do upgraded exhaust systems help?

Accepted Answer

Backpressure is a form of resistance against the flow of exhaust gases out of the engine. Some level of backpressure is necessary for optimal engine performance. Too much, on the other hand, negatively affects performance. Exhaust system kits are designed to minimize unnecessary levels of backpressure, thereby enhancing the engine's ability to “breathe” and ultimately resulting in performance gains.

Question 4

Do I really need to upgrade my exhaust engineering?

Accepted Answer

No. But upgrading your stock exhaust parts with one of IE’s exhaust kits has several benefits, including: Exhaust performance and efficiency improvements. Increased horsepower and torque. A more aggressive exhaust note

Question 5

What is the difference between cat-back, axle-back, and turbo-back exhaust systems, and which one should I choose?

Accepted Answer

Cat-back exhaust systems replace the stock exhaust components from the catalytic converter to the exhaust tips, improving flow and sound without altering emissions. Axle-back exhaust systems replace parts from the rear axle to the exhaust tips, offering a more modest upgrade primarily affecting sound. Turbo-back exhaust systems (for turbocharged engines) replace everything from the turbo's outlet to the exhaust tips, offering the most significant performance improvements. Note: these types of exhaust systems often require additional tuning for both performance and emissions reasons.

Question 6

How does the design of the exhaust tips influence the exhaust note and vehicle aesthetics?

Accepted Answer

The design of an aftermarket exhaust changes the look of your vehicle’s rear, making it sportier. But the design may also influence the exhaust note slightly too. For instance, larger tips can amplify the exhaust note, and different shapes can alter the timbre/tone.