Your car is designed with an exhaust system that controls noise, directs exhaust gases away from passengers, to improve engine performance and fuel consumption.
Somehow, the exhaust system is no longer working as well as before. It’s time to modify the exhaust. But did you know that replacing exhaust systems will have both benefits and drawbacks?
Let us introduce you to the advantages and disadvantages of exhaust mods!
What is the Exhaust System
Before knowing the advantages and disadvantages of dual exhaust, you need to understand the exhaust system well. So, what is the exhaust system?
An exhaust system is generally a pipe used to guide reaction exhaust gases away from a controlled combustion inside an engine or stove. The entire system transports burned gases from the engine and includes one or more exhaust pipes.
Depending on the overall system design, the construction of the exhaust system can be slightly different. But generally, an exhaust system includes:
Exhaust Manifold
The first point of contact for exhaust gases after they exit the cylinder head. It connects to each exhaust port on the engine’s cylinder head and channels the hot exhaust gases into the exhaust pipe.
Thanks to the exhaust manifold gaskets, it also prevents toxic exhaust gases from leaking into the vehicle and harming the occupants.
Catalytic Converter
An exhaust emission control device that reduces toxic gases and pollutants in the exhaust gas of an internal combustion engine into less toxic pollutants by catalyzing a redox reaction. In another way, it helps you continue to breathe the air while you drive.
Turbocharger
A turbine-driven forced induction device that increases the efficiency and power output of an internal combustion engine by forcing additional compressed air into the combustion chamber.
This improvement over an atmospheric engine’s power output is due to the compressor being able to force more air (and proportionally more fuel) into the combustion chamber than atmospheric pressure alone.
Muffler
A noise suppression device that eliminates noise by redirecting airflow. Throughout the journey, the exhaust passes through porous pipes that allow the exhaust gases to expand into sound-deadening material, thus minimizing the noise that ultimately exits the tailpipe.
Why You Need to Modify the Exhaust System
Since the exhaust system doesn’t just vent fumes from the car, it works really hard and, over time, it needs to be modified.
An old exhaust system can cause many problems for your engine, your car’s performance, and the environment. Some symptoms indicate that you really need a new exhaust system.
Engine Noise
The signal is that the engine noise is louder than usual. As a function of the exhaust, it helps suppress noise. But when the noise starts to get louder, you know your exhaust system is in trouble.
Rust
Take a look at the exhaust itself and look for signs of rust or cracks. Some exhaust corrosion is normal on older cars, but if you see excessive damage, it might be time to replace it.
Energy Inefficiency
If your car is consuming more fuel than before, it could be a symptom of many car problems, including a leak in your exhaust system.
A leak will affect the system’s ability to transport fumes, leaving your engine running at a higher temperature and reducing your energy efficiency.
If your car exhibits one or more of these symptoms, it is definitely time for you to think about exhaust modifications.
Regular maintenance at the garage can prevent damage to the exhaust system. However, if you find that there is already a problem, don’t wait to have it checked by a qualified technician.
Ignoring the warning signs can cause additional damage to the exhaust and other important car parts, which will cost much more to repair in the long run.
Advantages and Disadvantages of Exhaust Modifications
You already know what an exhaust system is and how it works. So let’s talk about the advantages and disadvantages of the exhaust system.
The Advantages of Exhaust Modifications
1. Better Engine Performance
The exhaust system is an essential system for the engine. Exhaust mods can improve your car’s exhaust by customizing the performance of the exhaust system, which allows the entire engine to function better.
This can be explained by the relationship between the exhaust and the engine. Changing the exhaust allows exhaust gases to escape faster and more efficiently.
Your engine will breathe better and thus produce more power. The car’s operation in turn improves all engine performance: its torque, power, and sound.
When air can easily enter and exit, the engine’s power can be directed to other functions.
2. Fuel Economy
When your exhaust system is faulty, especially if it has a leak, it consumes much more fuel than usual. Replacing it with a new exhaust will help you save fuel.
The new exhaust can increase backpressure which accumulates gases and can force the engine to work harder, affecting its performance and increasing energy output. Mileage has also increased.
3. Reduction of Climate Change
The fluid from the outdated exhaust system is one of the main contributors to atmospheric gases involved in climate change.
Exhaust modifications will certainly reduce emissions and preserve the climate. So, replacing your old vehicle’s system with a new fuel-efficient system will help save the planet.
4. Increased Car Value
We cannot deny that changing to a new exhaust system will make your car look better, produce a better sound, and ultimately increase your car’s value.
By equipping it with a high-performance muffler and new headers, the engine practically purrs with sensual performance.
Your car can be recognized on the street as a high-performance, high-end, well-maintained vehicle, regardless of its age.
For someone looking to resell the car, it’s a good investment as it will increase your car’s price.
For someone who owns an old car, a new exhaust system will make your car last longer since the new exhaust system is usually built from stainless steel that will never rust over time, unlike older systems that often need regular replacement due to rust.
The lifespan of the exhaust system will be improved.
The Disadvantages of Exhaust Modifications
1. High Price
One of the biggest drawbacks of any major purchase is the price that comes with it. The same goes for the exhaust system, which is quite expensive to replace compared to other car parts.
The change also requires a skilled repairer, which is expensive at the garage. But, considering the huge gains in power and style that a performance exhaust offers, most people agree that it’s money well spent.
2. Long Installation Time
The second disadvantage is the installation time of the exhaust system. As we mentioned above, replacing a new exhaust system requires a professional repairman because the installation is not simple and one mistake can lead to the failure of the entire car.
Should You Modify the Exhaust System or Not?
When comparing, it is clear that the advantages of exhaust mods outweigh the disadvantages.
Therefore, we recommend replacing the new exhaust system when you need it to minimize the risks that can happen to your car by keeping a car with a bad exhaust system.
Furthermore, a trusted mechanic is necessary for a better lifespan of the exhaust system. So, send your car to a good garage to avoid any serious damage and help maintain your car.
Replacing the new exhaust system brings you many benefits, so don’t hesitate to take your car to the mechanic for a new installation.
Final Value
What we mentioned above is about the advantages and disadvantages of exhaust modifications. There is no doubt that exhaust modifications are necessary and help your car perform better and also increase its value.
Maintaining your car is also a good choice to help the exhaust last longer!