You’re driving in a nice and quiet atmosphere, and suddenly you hear a loud noise coming from a vehicle nearby, yep, that’s the sound of a straight pipe exhaust system. If you want to upgrade your ride with this, it’s important to know the pros and cons of straight pipe exhaust when you’re going through the process.
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What is a straight pipe exhaust system?
Straight pipe exhaust is an exhaust system designed for a car or truck in which the muffler and catalytic converter have been removed so that the engine’s waste gases go directly into a single, large-diameter tailpipe.
The main purpose of straight pipe exhaust is to improve the airflow in the engine, which helps with fuel efficiency and performance. It also helps provide the exhaust noise that enthusiasts love to hear. This allows for a deeper, more bassy sound when you rev the engine. Since exhaust is such an important part of a vehicle’s performance and sound, it can affect how much gas mileage you get as well as acceleration time when you hit the gas pedal.
Some straight pipe systems include heat shields all around the tailpipe to prevent heat from being directly emitted into the cabin of your vehicle. This is a great feature to have if you’re installing it yourself.
Straight pipe exhaust pros vs cons
Straight pipe exhaust pros:
- The true sound of your engine and gas mileage will improve with this.
- Easy installation process without much difficulty.
- Easy to control the noise level with a straight pipe exhaust.
- Last but not least, it looks and feels raw and powerful.
Straight pipe exhaust cons:
- It’s illegal in some states due to excessive noise pollution.
- Emissions problems when using a straight pipe system.
Straight pipe exhaust: pros & cons
Let’s weigh the pros and cons of a straight pipe exhaust system before you decide to replace your regular one.
Benefits of a straight pipe exhaust
#1 Enjoy engine true sound
The first pro is that the overall sound of your car will improve significantly with the straight pipe system. If you’re someone who likes to hear and feel the engine, then this is a plus for you, since most mufflers don’t do much to help in that department with a standard-size muffler. You’ll be hearing a deep, throaty sound as it leaves the tailpipe giving you a more exhilarating driving experience.
#2 Improve gas mileage
Another pro is that the straight pipe systems have nothing blocking the exhaust fumes from leaving your vehicle, which helps with gas mileage. The fewer things that are blocking the exhaust fumes, the more fuel efficiency you’ll get.
#3 Easy installation
The last pro is that a straight pipe system can be installed without any difficulty. All you need are enough metal-cutting tools, a pair of crescent wrenches and basic skills to do it yourself.
#4 Aesthetics
Some people go for straight pipe systems because they look better when installed. It’s more of a visual improvement than anything else. The straight pipes give it a raw, powerful and rugged look that will surely attract some attention for you and your ride.
Disadvantages of straight pipe exhaust
#1 The noise can be out of control
The first con is that the straight pipe exhaust systems do not have a muffler, which means that you can’t control the noise. If you live in a neighborhood where there are a lot of people who don’t appreciate loud car noises, then you might want to reconsider this type of exhaust system because it will definitely be a problem for your neighbors. You can still hear loud engine noises with the straight pipe system.
#2 Legal matter
One more con of straight pipe exhaust is that it is illegal in some states because of too much noise pollution. Other than that, it’s considered legal in most U.S. states.
#3 Emission issues
The last con is that there are some serious emissions problems when using a straight pipe system. As there is no catalytic converter, the fume just goes straight into the environment.
If you live in an area where there are strict laws regarding emissions and you want to avoid getting a ticket, then this is something that you should consider when thinking about pure performance and aesthetics.
How much does a straight pipe exhaust system cost?
A standard straight pipe exhaust system costs $500-$700, while a “performance” one can be as expensive as $1000. If you’re looking to have it installed by a professional mechanic, then be prepared to pay $100-$200 for the labor.
The verdict: Straight pipe exhaust, pros & cons!
It all depends on your personal reference and your living area to decide whether you can go for a straight pipe exhaust system or not. That’s why I would recommend you to go through these pros and cons before deciding on what kind of exhaust system you should get for your ride.
If you have some welding skills, you can do it yourself. Otherwise, get a professional mechanic to do it for you.
Hi there! I’m Naomi O’Colman. I’ve got years of experience working at an auto repair shop here in Texas under my belt. On top of that, ever since I was a kid I’ve been passionate about the auto industry. Since I’ve joined the team at automotivegearz.com I’ve been enthusiastically sharing my passion and insights with my readers. I’m dedicated to delivering high quality content and helping you stay up to date with the latest automotive trends and products out there!
