Because of today's manufacturing standards, a lot of auto manufacturers will leave plenty of room for improvement with most cars that roll off an assembly line. They use affordable, standardized parts to fit a large quantity of mass-produced automobiles. They aren't concerned about maximizing each vehicle's performance, especially when it comes to torque and horsepower.
This is why many vehicle owners opt to install aftermarket exhaust systems. It's one of the best way to boost horsepower, torque and other performance factors. In addition, a custom exhaust designed specifically for your car and your engine can improve things even more than a bolt-on kit.
Here are 7 reasons why you should consider installing a custom exhaust system, according to the Colorado Springs auto repair experts (and custom exhaust specialists) at LightHouse Automotive:
1. It's Customized for You and Your Car
Whether you keep the stock exhaust system that came with your vehicle or you install an aftermarket kit, they will use mass-produced parts. Bolt-on kits will usually offer some performance advantages and look stylish, but they still aren't tuned in exactly to your car, truck or SUV. A truly custom-designed exhaust system will let you define the style you want and achieve the performance you desire.
2. Better Bends = Better Exhaust Flow
Most factory-made exhaust systems (and many aftermarket ones) will use what's called a "crush bend" to shape the exhaust pipes. This decreases the diameter in the bent sections of the pipe and thus slows the exhaust gases traveling through the pipes. A good custom exhaust build will use "mandrel bends" that maintain a constant diameter for the most consistent exhaust flow possible. This frees up power in the engine for the boosts in horsepower and torque you are looking for.
3. Larger Diameter Pipes
Speaking of pipe diameter, a custom exhaust can allow you to use exhaust pipes with larger diameters than the stock ones. This can improve the flow of exhaust gases even more for increased engine performance. However, if you go too big, you might actually be hurting the vehicle's performance, which is why it makes sense to work with a professional custom exhaust builder who will help you make the right decisions.
4. Higher Quality Materials
Mild steel is fairly common in automobile production when it comes to exhaust components. It's fine, but it tends to deteriorate over time. This can lead to exhaust leaks and performance issues the longer you own the vehicle. Higher-grade aftermarket exhausts will often utilize aluminized steel or stainless steel for increased durability.
5. The Sound and the Feeling
There is simply a difference you will feel and hear when you have a better exhaust system. From the custom pipes to the muffler you select, you will clearly notice the added power when you drive. As for sound, that's completely up to you. You can make the engine louder and more aggressive, which is what a lot of people want in an aftermarket exhaust. Or if you prefer, you can even install a top-quality muffler that makes it run a little quieter without sacrificing the horsepower gains. The possibilities are endless with a custom exhaust system!
6. Improved Fuel Economy
This can can be a tricky subject when it comes to custom exhausts. The more efficient your exhaust system is, the more efficient your engine will run. This typically leads to better fuel mileage. Many custom and kit exhausts are designed specifically with this in mind. Some will boost the torque and horsepower so much, however, that it has the opposite effect. The engine has to burn more fuel to keep up with the increased power output. A good custom exhaust system can help you find the right balance between performance and fuel economy, but ultimately it's up to you.
7. It's a Reflection of You
We love our vehicles, whether we drive them every day or only for fun. Obviously, some of us love our cars more than others. A custom exhaust is reflection of your personal style and it's one way to allow you and your car to make a statement. It goes beyond just looking cool like a sweet paint job or body kit parts, though. It actually increases the power and performance of your vehicle. A custom exhaust offers both form and function advantages, as you can see.
If you are in the Colorado Springs area and are looking to install an aftermarket exhaust system or want to get a fully custom exhaust designed and installed by a leading local expert, call LightHouse Automotive today at (719) 465-0302 or schedule a service appointment online. Custom exhausts are one of our specialties, so we can help you make the right decisions and get the absolute most out of your vehicle's performance.