An aftermarket exhaust doesn’t just change the way your car performs, it changes how it feels. From that deep growl on acceleration to a much cleaner, more purposeful look, your exhaust is one of the few upgrades that can hit sound, style and performance all at once. But like any part that lives under your car and takes a beating, it needs a bit of care to keep looking and sounding just right. Whether you are driving daily, doing the odd track day or just like to show it off at meets, here’s how to keep your exhaust system in top shape.
Why Exhausts Lose Their Edge
Over time, even the best quality systems start to show signs of wear. You might notice:
- A dull or raspy sound that wasn’t there before
- Discolouration or grime on your tailpipes
- Rust creeping in (especially on lower grade materials)
- Rattles or knocks if the hangers or clamps are loose
A lot of these issues come down to exposure. Substances like water, salt, grit, mud and even heat, can all take their toll.
But the good news is, it can be prevented!
Regular Cleaning Goes a Long Way
In one of the most obvious pieces of advice ever published online, regular cleaning is one of the best things you can do for your exhaust. Tailpipes can pick up a lot of carbon and grime from the road, especially in the winter. Use a metal polish and some fine steel wool or a microfibre cloth to clean stainless steel tips. For burnt tips or coated finishes, make sure you’re using the right product to not make sure you don’t damage the surface. If you’ve gone for something a bit more unique, like a rolled edge, slash cut or a custom twin pipe, you’ll definitely want to keep them looking fresh.
Tackle Rust Before It Spreads
If you’ve got a stainless steel system, you’re already one step ahead. But even stainless can stain or tarnish in harsh conditions. Use a rust remover or converter on early spots and give it a coat of high temperature exhaust paint if needed. Keeping road salt off your system in winter really helps too (especially if you’ve gone for a mild steel system).
Look (and Listen) for Trouble
Noticed a change in sound? Even a slight increase in volume could signal a leak or crack. A damaged gasket or loose clamp can let gases escape and alter your exhaust note. To check this, you would need to get under the car (safely) now and give the exhaust system a once over. Look for signs of rust around joints, loose hangers or anything knocking. If you’ve installed your system with a fitting kit, make sure all the bolts and brackets are still holding firm. Exhausts change tone over time. Some settle in nicely, others start to drone or rasp. If the sound’s gone off, it could be the silencer filling breaking down or a small leak somewhere. Upgrading or replacing a silencer can fix that and even refine the tone.
A good exhaust system is built to last, but a little upkeep goes a long way. Clean it, check it and listen to it.
You’ll keep that deep tone, sharp look and solid performance for miles to come.
