Systems are made from aluminised coated mild steel or stainless steel.

The gases and heat produced by the engine travel through the exhaust manifold, into the engine pipe, through the catalytic converter, intermediate assembly and finally the rear muffler. More information on each of these components is provided below.

Situated at the front of the system and bolted to the engine, the manifold guides poisonous gas and heat into other components of the system. Manifolds are usually made from cast iron, as they must endure temperatures of up to 1300 degrees Celsius. Due to this heat however, even the best of manifolds are prone to cracking at times. In some vehicles, the manifold is replaced by ‘extractors’, which are also known as ‘headers’.

Connecting the manifold to the catalytic converter, the engine pipe must withstand heat of up to 1100 degrees Celsius as it channels the heat and poisonous gases into the catalytic converter.

This component converts the harmful gases into carbon dioxide, water, nitrogen and oxygen.

The most common type of converter is the three-way, so named because it contains a honeycomb like biscuit that is impregnated with three precious metals. It also must withstand extreme temperatures. A standard operating temperature is around 200 degrees and can reach 600 to 800 degrees when operating at optimum efficiency.

Containing a resonator at front and/or a muffler at rear, the intermediate assembly reduces noise.

As part of the intermediate assembly, the intermediate pipe (also known as the over axle pipe) connects the front assembly to the rear muffler.

The final part of the exhaust system, this is the part of the system most people recognise as being a muffler. The rear muffler is where the exhaust gases leave the vehicle both visibly and audibly. It is very susceptible to corrosion due to condensation forming in this part of the system (particularly in cars travelling short journeys).

A tail pipe is the rear-most (or final) conduit in the system. These can also be complimented with chrome or stainless steel exhaust tips for extra visual appeal.

These are used to attach the exhaust system to the vehicle and reduce the problems that would otherwise be caused by vibration. Wear and tear is unavoidable with these so it is important to have these checked when your vehicle is being serviced.

Even though its more time efficient to complete exhaust works all at once, sometimes your budget won’t allow it. The good news is that most performance enhancements operate independent of each other, so stand-alone enhancements are possible on most vehicles.

Different vehicles require different exhaust solutions. Speak to our team so you can weigh both your immediate options and the long-term consequences: bigger is not always better and being louder doesn’t guarantee a better note.

If you don’t get it right, it can drive you (and all your neighbours) crazy!! Please be encouraged: ask that question. We are here to help.