Best Car Exhaust Systems in Australia

Date Posted: 11 August 2022

Let's start with the purpose of your vehicle's exhaust system. The primary purpose of an exhaust system is to extract the burnt exhaust gases from the vehicle and control the noise the system puts out - to improve the performance of the engine and fuel consumption. The quality of your exhaust system will determine how the burned exhaust gases are disposed of. The more efficiently they are expelled, the more power will be provided to the vehicle and a better exhaust note, so let's get into what exhaust system is best for you!

What are the Parts of the Exhaust System?

It begins with the exhaust manifold/extractors, this is connected directly to the engine and harnesses the combustion gases into the exhaust system.
Then, onto the oxygen sensors which measure how much oxygen is present in the exhaust.
It then moves through to the engine pipe and or Cat converters which lessens the harmful emissions from the engine exhaust.
Then, to the intermediate section which is pipe work to make the most efficient route to the back of the vehicle.
Finally, to the rear muffler and / tail pipes. With the muffler there are two options, number one is one’s with baffled chambers to reduce the noise, the other type forces the exhaust straight through a perforated pipe making more noise. The tailpipe is the end of the journey usually coming past the bumper and directing the gas away from the vehicle. It can be finished with a fancy stainless steel tip either straight cut or angle cut. The tailpipes are usually larger in diameter than the rest of the exhaust system.

So, your question may be, what is the best exhaust system for your vehicle? This will definitely depend on your noise preference and your type of vehicle. Listed below are some of our suggestions for different vehicles:

•   Best exhaust system for Navara D40: 3” Turbo Back
•   Best exhaust system for Prado 150: 3” Turbo Back
•   Best exhaust system for 80 Series Petrol: Extractors and 2.5” exhaust
•   Best exhaust system for VE SS: Extractors Hi Flow Cats and Twin 3” Catback
•   Best exhaust system for 350 Chevy: Extractors Hi Flow Cats and Twin 3” Catback
•   Best exhaust system for Chevy Silverado 1500: Extractors Hi Flow Cats and Twin 3” Catback
•   Best exhaust system for Ford Ranger: 3” Turbo Back
•   Best exhaust system for VE SV6: Twin 2.25” Catback

The Exhaust System Brands We Recommend Are:

Redback RXD - Australia's most trusted 4x4 Stainless Steel Exhaust Systems. Made in Melbourne, built tough, and engineered for the best performance. Let's not miss the most important part: a 5-year or 10-year warranty for any Redback Extreme systems.
Performex – Performex is an Australian made brand, amazing quality and one of the most affordable brands on the market!
Xforce - XFORCE is one of Australia’s most recognised brands. XFORCE provides the pinnacle of quality in the performance exhaust market with competitive pricing to match Stylish and practically designed to maximize performance, XFORCE diverse range of exhaust products are researched and custom- developed right here in Australia.
Pacemaker – For years we have recommended and fitted Pacemaker it has been innovating, designing and manufacturing quality exhaust headers/extractors in Australia. Pacemaker Headers are long lasting, designed to fit many popular cars, and a product of a dedicated R&D Environment
Manta - Manta has over 90 years of experience in the performance exhaust sector, engineering and developing some of Australia's most advanced exhaust systems. They produce a variety of exhausts with a distinct sound and flawless fitment.

How Long Does it Take to Install an Exhaust System?

Installation really varies on exhaust systems depending on their complexity and whether it is just a small fix or a full change out. To change out a rusted tailpipe, it can take as little as 1 hour, and installing a full upgrade of an exhaust system, including extractors, can take up to 8 hours.

How Much Does it Cost to Install an Exhaust System?

Obviously, the cost to install or replace an exhaust system varies along with what is being done and whether it is a full exhaust or just a part of it. It can start as low as a few hundred dollars and go right up to around $6000.00. General repairs can start at around $150.00 and can go up to around $1200.00, and then upgrading your full exhaust system to something new, including manifolds, etc., can be upwards of $2000.00.

Why Do You Need to Replace an Exhaust System?

One of the main reasons you will need to replace your existing exhaust system is when it has rusted out, cracked, or is blocked up. An exhaust leak in your exhaust system can affect fuel economy and create a really noisy system. Most cars do not need exhaust repair work done for around 8 to 10 years. Of course, there is always just wanting to upgrade to a better-suited or better-sounding exhaust system for your vehicle.

Signs That Your Exhaust System is on its Way Out

One of the biggest ways to tell if your exhaust system is struggling or ready for replacement is when you notice:

A change in the vehicle's noise levels,
Either a rattle or something that doesn’t sound just right.
Vibrations which can be felt inside the vehicle,
The check engine light may come on
Decreased fuel efficiency
Increase in exhaust fume smell

Still Got Questions?

What Does a Resonator Do on an Exhaust System?

A resonator is a small muffler that helps balance the sound, it removes high-pitched noises along with pesky hums and whines. It creates a smoother exhaust note but doesn't affect volume.

What is a Cat Back Exhaust System?

A cat back exhaust system is an aftermarket modification that enhances the exhaust components of a vehicle, from the catalytic converters to the rear muffler and tailpipes. It doesn't include the catalytic converters themselves. This upgrade can potentially improve exhaust efficiency, performance, and sound, giving the vehicle a distinctive auditory character while adhering to emissions regulations.

What is a DPF Back Exhaust System?

A DPF back system is a modification that focuses on enhancing the components of a vehicle's exhaust system, from the diesel particulate filter to the rear muffler and tailpipes, excluding the filter itself. This upgrade can potentially improve exhaust flow, performance, and sound, offering drivers a distinct auditory experience while maintaining adherence to emissions regulations governed by the diesel particulate filter. It's a way to balance performance enhancement with environmental responsibility for diesel-powered vehicles.

What is a Full Exhaust System?

A Full Exhaust System, encompassing components from the engine to the rear of the vehicle, orchestrates the management of exhaust gases. This intricate network of pipes, manifolds, catalytic converters, resonators, and mufflers serves multiple purposes. It expels harmful emissions, reduces noise, and can impact engine performance. Enthusiasts often opt for aftermarket upgrades to fine-tune their vehicle's power output and sound. By modifying the full exhaust system, drivers seek a balance between performance enhancement, compliance with emissions standards, and a more engaging driving experience. It's a comprehensive arrangement that harmonises efficiency, power, and environmental responsibility in the automotive symphony.