Does Changing the Exhaust System Void a Manufacturer Warranty?

Stock exhaust systems are designed to provide good operation in the widest possible range of driving conditions. That means there are a lot of compromises made. An aftermarket exhaust system can offer better fuel economy, a better sound from the engine, more power from the engine and other benefits. However, if your vehicle is still covered by the manufacturer’s warranty, you might be a bit leery about installing an aftermarket exhaust for fear that it will void your warranty. Will it?

The truth about voided warranties and aftermarket parts

The truth of the matter is that adding an aftermarket exhaust system to your vehicle will not void your warranty in most cases. Note that phrase, “most cases.” If your new system does not cause any damage to other components on the vehicle, then your warranty will be fine and remain intact.

However, if a problem arises that a mechanic can trace back to the aftermarket system you installed, then your warranty (or a portion of it) will be voided. For instance, let’s say you installed a full header-back aftermarket exhaust system, and the catalytic converter failed afterward because of something to do with the design of the aftermarket system. The warranty would be voided, and you’d be paying for a new cat out of your own pocket.

On the flip side, if the mechanic could not trace the failure to something to do with the aftermarket system, then your warranty would remain in place. Dealerships and automakers don’t really want to void your warranty, but they also don’t want to be on the hook for repair or replacement costs caused by something that you did, and that was not their fault.


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Royal

17 years of experience
103 reviews
Royal
17 years of experience
Lexus GS300 L6-3.0L - Smoke from engine or exhaust - San Antonio, Texas
Royal - great individual to listen and talk, he and my brother have a good understanding what’s going on with my vehicle.

Ryan

23 years of experience
85 reviews
Ryan
23 years of experience
Toyota Solara V6-3.3L - Smoke from engine or exhaust - Mooresville, North Carolina
Ryan was great! He seemed extremely knowledgeable about the issue I needed resolved, and on top of that has a stellar personality. 10/10 would recommend!!

Claud

9 years of experience
640 reviews
Claud
9 years of experience
Lincoln MKT V6-3.5L Turbo - Smoke from engine or exhaust - Sterling Heights, Michigan
Claud dug right in and figured out my problem. While I received a worst case diagnosis, Claud clearly explained what was happening, and what it would take to fix it. That alone made his report well worth having, especially since you don’t often get the chance to interact with a highly qualified master mechanic when getting service! Thank you Claud for your professionalism and knowledge, very impressive service! You have my recommendation!

Michael

9 years of experience
5 reviews
Michael
9 years of experience
Audi A4 L4-2.0L Turbo - Smoke from engine or exhaust - Summerfield, Florida
My experience with Michael was wonderful! He was the most honest person and really took the time to breakdown everything he was doing. He explained what the issue was and why that was happening. Definitely a very knowledgeable mechanic! I’m so Grateful that he was here to help! Thank you!

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