After researching owner feedback, manufacturer specifications, and industry standards, we compared the top exhaust systems for trucks. Our evaluation focuses on sound quality, power gains, construction materials, and ease of installation. Whether you want a deep rumble or maximum flow, this guide covers the best options for your truck.
| Photo | Product | Score | Buy |
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Borla Cat-Back Exhaust System 140445 Best Overall Stainless steel, T-304, cat-back, dual rear exit |
9.2 | 🛒 Check Price |
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Corsa Performance Cat-Back Exhaust System 14425 Best Sound Stainless steel, cat-back, single rear exit, RSC technology |
8.9 | 🛒 Check Price |
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Flowmaster Outlaw Cat-Back Exhaust System 817687 Best Budget Aluminized steel, cat-back, dual split rear exit |
8.3 | 🛒 Check Price |
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MagnaFlow Performance Cat-Back Exhaust System 19226 Best Value Stainless steel, cat-back, dual rear exit, polished tips |
8.7 | 🛒 Check Price |
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MBRP Armor Plus Cat-Back Exhaust System S5101308 Best for Off-Road Aluminized steel, cat-back, single rear exit, 4-inch tip |
8.1 | 🛒 Check Price |
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Gibson Performance Exhaust Cat-Back System 618087 Best for Towing Aluminized steel, cat-back, single rear exit, 3-inch tubing |
7.8 | 🛒 Check Price |
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AWE Tuning 0FG Cat-Back Exhaust System 3015-11001 Premium Choice Stainless steel, cat-back, dual rear exit, 5-inch tips |
7.3 | 🛒 Check Price |
1. Borla Cat-Back Exhaust System 140445: Best Overall
The Borla 140445 cat-back exhaust system is a top performer for full-size trucks. In our evaluation, the T-304 stainless steel construction ensures long-term durability, and owner feedback consistently praises the sound quality. The multi-core technology reduces drone while maintaining a deep rumble. However, the price is higher than many competitors, and the aggressive tone may not suit those seeking a quiet ride.
If budget is a primary concern or you prefer a more subdued exhaust note, this system might not be the best fit. It is ideal for truck owners who prioritize sound and build quality over cost.
- Aircraft-quality T-304 stainless steel construction resists corrosion and rust.
- Patented multi-core technology delivers a deep, aggressive tone without drone.
- Direct bolt-on installation with included hardware and detailed instructions.
Pros: Superior build quality and lifetime warranty.; Noticeable horsepower and torque gains across the RPM range.; Minimal interior drone at highway speeds.
Cons: Premium pricing compared to other brands.; May be too loud for some daily drivers.
2. Corsa Performance Cat-Back Exhaust System 14425: Best Sound
The Corsa 14425 cat-back system is renowned for its sound quality. Using RSC technology, it delivers a loud, aggressive tone under acceleration but goes quiet on the highway. In our comparison, the mandrel-bent tubing provides good flow, and owner reviews highlight the lack of drone. However, the single exit design may not appeal to those wanting a dual look, and fitment can be tricky on lifted trucks.
Skip this if you need a dual exit or have clearance issues. It is best for truck owners who want a sporty sound without the drone.
- Reflective Sound Cancellation (RSC) eliminates drone while providing a bold sound.
- Mandrel-bent tubing ensures maximum exhaust flow and performance.
- Complete hardware kit and step-by-step instructions for straightforward installation.
Pros: Excellent drone control at cruising speeds.; Robust power gains, especially at higher RPMs.; Corrosion-resistant stainless steel construction.
Cons: Installation can be tight on some truck models.; Exhaust tips may not fit all aftermarket bumpers.
3. Flowmaster Outlaw Cat-Back Exhaust System 817687: Best Budget
The Flowmaster Outlaw 817687 offers a budget-friendly way to get a loud exhaust. In our evaluation, the aluminized steel construction provides decent durability but is not as long-lasting as stainless steel. Owner feedback notes the aggressive sound is great for off-road use but can be too loud for daily driving. It does not include a lifetime warranty like Borla or Corsa.
If you live in a snowy area or want a system that will last a decade, consider spending more for stainless steel. This is best for budget-conscious truck owners who want sound over performance.
- Straight-through design for maximum sound and flow.
- Aluminized steel construction for corrosion resistance at a lower cost.
- Includes all necessary hardware for a direct bolt-on installation.
Pros: Very affordable compared to stainless steel systems.; Loud, aggressive sound that Flowmaster is known for.; Easy to install with basic hand tools.
Cons: Aluminized steel may rust over time in harsh climates.; No significant performance gains on stock trucks.
4. MagnaFlow Performance Cat-Back Exhaust System 19226: Best Value
The MagnaFlow 19226 strikes a balance between price and quality. In our comparison, the stainless steel construction and lifetime warranty offer great value. Owner feedback indicates a mild to moderate sound level that many find pleasant. The mandrel-bent tubing supports better flow, but gains are modest on stock engines. Some users needed to adjust hangers for proper fit.
If you want an extremely loud exhaust, this may not satisfy. It is ideal for truck owners who want a durable, good-sounding system without breaking the bank.
- Full stainless steel construction with a corrosion-resistant finish.
- Free-flowing muffler and mandrel-bent tubing for improved exhaust flow.
- Polished stainless steel tips provide a clean, factory-like appearance.
Pros: Lifetime warranty and excellent build quality.; Deep, mellow tone without being obnoxious.; Noticeable throttle response improvement.
Cons: Sound may be too quiet for those wanting a loud exhaust.; Some owners report fitment issues on certain truck models.
5. MBRP Armor Plus Cat-Back Exhaust System S5101308: Best for Off-Road
The MBRP Armor Plus S5101308 is built for trucks that see dirt and mud. In our evaluation, the aluminized steel with powder-coated tip resists corrosion better than standard aluminized steel, but it is still not as durable as stainless. Owner feedback highlights the deep, aggressive sound that off-road enthusiasts love, but it can be tiresome on long trips. The single exit design keeps costs down.
If you drive primarily on highways or want a quiet cabin, this system may not suit you. It is best for off-road trucks where sound and cost matter more than refinement.
- Heavy-duty aluminized steel with a black powder-coated tip for off-road durability.
- Large 4-inch tip provides an aggressive appearance and deep sound.
- Designed for easy installation with no cutting or welding required.
Pros: Rugged construction that can handle off-road abuse.; Deep exhaust note that sounds great under load.; Affordable price point for a cat-back system.
Cons: Aluminized steel is less durable than stainless steel.; Can be loud and droney on the highway.
6. Gibson Performance Exhaust Cat-Back System 618087: Best for Towing
The Gibson 618087 is designed with towing in mind. In our comparison, the muffler tuning helps reduce drone when hauling heavy loads, and owner feedback confirms improved low-end torque. However, the aluminized steel is a downside for longevity, especially in salt-belt states. The sound is conservative, which may disappoint those wanting a loud exhaust.
If you prioritize a loud exhaust or live in a corrosive environment, look elsewhere. This system is best for truck owners who frequently tow and want a functional upgrade without excessive noise.
- Muffler design tuned to reduce drone while towing heavy loads.
- 3-inch mandrel-bent tubing for improved exhaust flow under load.
- Direct fit with no modifications needed.
Pros: Noticeable low-end torque improvement for towing.; Mellow sound that is not intrusive in the cab.; Easy bolt-on installation.
Cons: Aluminized steel construction may not last in rust-prone areas.; Sound may be too mild for some enthusiasts.
7. AWE Tuning 0FG Cat-Back Exhaust System 3015-11001: Premium Choice
The AWE Tuning 0FG 3015-11001 is a premium exhaust system that prioritizes fit and sound. In our evaluation, the T-304 stainless steel and drone-canceling technology are top-notch, but the price is a major barrier. Owner feedback is positive, but some report that the sound is not as loud as expected for the cost. The large tips may not fit all trucks without bumper trimming.
Skip this if you are on a budget or want a louder exhaust. It is best for truck owners who value perfect fit, premium materials, and a refined sound, and are willing to pay a premium.
- T-304 stainless steel with a unique 0FG (zero fitment guess) design for precision fit.
- Large 5-inch double-walled tips for an aggressive look.
- Drone-free sound at cruising speeds thanks to patented drone-canceling technology.
Pros: Excellent fitment and build quality.; Deep, refined sound without drone.; Lifetime warranty on materials and workmanship.
Cons: Very expensive compared to similar cat-back systems.; Limited availability for certain truck models.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between cat-back and axle-back exhaust systems?
A cat-back system replaces the exhaust from the catalytic converter back to the tailpipe, including the muffler. An axle-back system only replaces the section from the rear axle to the tailpipe, leaving the muffler in place. Cat-back systems generally offer more sound and performance gains, while axle-back systems are more affordable and easier to install.
Will a new exhaust system void my truck's warranty?
In most cases, aftermarket exhaust systems do not void the vehicle warranty, but they can if they cause damage. The Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act protects consumers from warranty denial unless the aftermarket part directly caused the issue. However, some dealerships may be less cooperative, so it is best to keep your original parts.
How do I choose between aluminized steel and stainless steel?
Aluminized steel is more affordable and offers good corrosion resistance but can rust over time, especially in salty environments. Stainless steel is more expensive but lasts much longer and resists rust better. If you live in a dry climate or plan to keep your truck for a short time, aluminized steel may suffice. For long-term ownership or wet/snowy areas, stainless steel is recommended.
Will a cat-back exhaust improve fuel economy?
Some truck owners report slight fuel economy improvements due to reduced backpressure, but gains are typically small (1-2 mpg at most). The primary benefits of a cat-back exhaust are sound and performance, not fuel savings. In some cases, if you drive more aggressively due to the new sound, fuel economy may actually decrease.
How loud is too loud for a daily driver truck?
This is subjective, but a system with excessive drone (resonance at cruising speeds) can be fatiguing on long drives. Look for systems with drone-canceling technology (like Corsa’s RSC or AWE’s drone-canceling) or read owner reviews about highway noise. Generally, a system rated around 85-90 decibels at idle is manageable, but anything over 95 dB may become annoying.
Our Verdict
After research and comparison, the Borla 140445 Cat-Back Exhaust System earns our top pick for its superior build quality, excellent sound, and noticeable performance gains. For a runner-up, the Corsa 14425 offers the best sound with drone-free cruising. Both are premium choices that deliver on their promises.
