Can You Put an Exhaust on a Honda Civic?

Yes—you can install an aftermarket exhaust on a Honda Civic, and it’s one of the most popular modifications for sound, style, and modest performance gains. The key is choosing a system that fits your generation and trim, complies with local noise and emissions rules, and aligns with your goals for daily drivability versus performance.

What “Putting an Exhaust On” Really Means

In automotive terms, “putting an exhaust on” typically refers to replacing sections of the factory exhaust system with aftermarket components that change sound, airflow, weight, or appearance. The options vary in how much of the stock system they replace and how they affect emissions.

• Axle-back: Replaces the rear muffler(s) and tips. Easiest install, mostly changes sound and appearance; minimal performance gain.
• Cat-back: Replaces piping from behind the catalytic converter to the tips. Most common upgrade; noticeable sound change, small power gains, typically emissions-legal.
• Header-back (NA models) or turbo-back (turbo models): Replaces everything after the engine’s exhaust ports/turbo. Largest potential gains but most complex, and often emissions-sensitive.
• Resonator/muffler delete: Removes sound-damping sections. Cheapest way to get louder, but can cause drone and may violate noise laws.
• High-flow downpipe (turbo models): Major restriction point; significant gains when paired with a tune. Regulated part—legality varies by state/country.

Most Civic owners choose axle-back or cat-back systems for a balance of sound, fitment, legality, and cost; more extensive changes require careful consideration of emissions and tuning.

Compatibility Across Civic Generations and Trims

Exhaust fitment depends on body style (sedan, hatchback), engine (2.0 NA, 1.5T, Si, Type R), transmission (CVT/manual), and generation. Aftermarket systems are sold specifically for each model year range and trim—cross-generation swaps rarely fit without modification.

• 2016–2021 (10th gen) 2.0 NA: Commonly 2.25-inch piping; cat-back systems focus on tone without drone.
• 2016–2021 (10th gen) 1.5T/Si: 2.5-inch cat-backs are typical; downpipe/tune adds more benefit on turbo models.
• 2017–2021 Type R (FK8) and 2023–2025 Type R (FL5): Performance-focused systems often 2.75–3.0 inches; triple-tip aesthetics vary by brand.
• 2022–2025 (11th gen) 2.0 NA/1.5T/Si: New chassis and mounting points require 11th-gen-specific kits; confirm sedan vs hatchback fitment.
• CVT vs manual: Cat-backs fit both, but brands tune sound differently to limit CVT drone on highway.

Always verify exact part numbers for your year, trim, and body style, and check whether the kit reuses factory hangers, gaskets, or includes new hardware.

Legal and Emissions Considerations

Cat-back and axle-back systems typically do not affect emissions equipment, but noise and certain components (like downpipes) are regulated. Know your local rules before buying.

• Noise limits: States like California enforce a 95 dB limit for passenger cars via standardized tests; other states/countries have similar “excessive noise” laws.
• CARB compliance (U.S., especially CA): Parts that affect emissions (headers, downpipes, catalytic converters) generally require a CARB Executive Order (EO) number to be legal for street use. Cat-backs usually do not need CARB EO but must meet noise laws.
• Inspections: Some regions conduct visual and OBD inspections; check whether aftermarket parts must carry labels or EO numbers.
• Catalytic converter removal: “Catless” setups are illegal on public roads in many jurisdictions and can trigger check-engine lights.

If you’re in a strict state or country, prioritize cat-back systems designed for compliance, and confirm noise claims (many brands publish decibel data or “touring” vs “race” variants).

Power, Sound, and Trade-offs

Upgrading the exhaust changes the driving experience, but gains vary by configuration and engine.

• Power: Cat-back on NA engines often nets 0–5 hp; on turbo 1.5T/Si, 5–12 hp is common. Downpipe plus a tune can add 20–40+ hp on 1.5T models.
• Sound: Expect deeper tone and louder volume; “touring” systems aim to reduce highway drone, “race/track” systems are louder.
• Weight and flow: Quality stainless or titanium can reduce weight and improve flow; bends and muffler design matter as much as diameter.
• Driveability: Excessive diameter can hurt low-end torque on NA engines; turbo models tolerate larger sizes better.

A well-matched cat-back offers the best balance for daily use—noticeable sound with small but real performance benefits, minimal downsides, and easier legality.

Materials, Diameters, and Brand Landscape

Material and size influence durability, tone, and performance. Reputable brands publish specs and sound clips to compare options.

• Materials: 304 stainless resists corrosion best; 409 stainless is affordable but may surface-rust; titanium offers big weight savings at a premium.
• Typical diameters: 2.25 inches (2.0 NA), 2.5 inches (1.5T/Si), 2.75–3.0 inches (Type R or big-power builds).
• Well-known brands: Borla, MagnaFlow, AWE, GReddy, Invidia, HKS, Remark, MBRP, Milltek, Tomei (titanium), Remus, Fujitsubo. Platform specialists like PRL, RV6, and 27WON offer complementary parts (downpipes, front pipes).
• Price ranges (USD): Axle-back $250–$900; cat-back $500–$1,800; titanium $1,200–$3,000; pro installation $150–$400; custom fab $300–$1,200.

Choose based on your climate (rust), budget, and sound tolerance. Listening to recordings from your exact trim and generation helps avoid drone surprises.

Installation Overview and Practical Tips

Many Civic exhaust systems are bolt-on and DIY-friendly with basic tools, but safe lifting, rusted hardware, and alignment can challenge first-timers.

• Prep: Soak factory bolts with penetrating oil; have new gaskets and hardware ready. Verify tip alignment and hanger positions out of the box.
• Lifting: Use quality ramps/jack stands on level ground. Never rely on a jack alone.
• Removal: Unbolt from the rear forward; keep O2 sensors untouched for cat-backs. Save OEM parts for resale or inspection.
• Install: Assemble loosely, align tips in the bumper cutout, then torque to spec from front to back. Check for clearance over axles and heat shields.
• Post-check: Start and inspect for leaks or rattles; re-torque after a few heat cycles.

If you lack tools or a safe place to work, a muffler shop can install most bolt-on systems quickly and align tips precisely.

Warranty and Insurance

Aftermarket parts do not automatically void your warranty in the U.S.; the Magnuson–Moss Warranty Act requires dealers to prove the modification caused the issue. Insurers may require declaring modifications, particularly loud or high-value systems.

Common Questions Answered

Before buying, it helps to address frequent concerns Civic owners have about exhaust upgrades.

• Will a cat-back trigger a check-engine light? No, not by itself; downpipes can.
• Do I need a tune? Not for axle-back/cat-back; a tune is recommended for downpipe or major flow changes on turbo models.
• Will it drone on the highway? Depends on design; “touring” systems and added resonators reduce drone, especially on CVT cars.
• Can I pass inspection? Usually yes with cat-back/axle-back, assuming noise compliance. Emissions-modifying parts must be approved where required.
• Is bigger always better? Not on NA engines; oversized piping can soften low-end response.

Matching the system to your engine and use case—not just the loudest option—delivers the best result.

Bottom Line

You can absolutely put an exhaust on a Honda Civic. Pick a system engineered for your exact model and year, stay mindful of noise and emissions laws, and expect improved sound with modest performance gains—especially on turbo trims. Quality parts and careful installation make the upgrade reliable and enjoyable for daily driving.

What year of Civic to stay away from?

Which Honda Civic Years to Avoid

Model Year	Main Issues
2001	Transmission failure, airbag recall, engine concerns
2006	Cracked engine blocks, coolant leaks
2007–2008	Premature tire wear, engine and body integrity issues
2012	Poor interior quality, underwhelming ride and build

Is it easy to modify a Honda Civic?

Yes, Honda Civics are generally considered easy to modify due to their popularity, aftermarket support, and relatively simple design. They’ve been a favorite among car enthusiasts for decades, offering a wide range of options for customization and performance enhancements. 
Here’s why they are a good platform for modifications:

• Abundant Aftermarket Support: A huge variety of aftermarket parts are available for Civics, including body kits, wheels, performance parts, and more. 
• Interchangeability: Many parts are interchangeable between different Civic generations and even with other Honda models like the Integra. 
• Budget-Friendly: Civics are often affordable to purchase, making them a great starting point for a project car without requiring a large initial investment. 
• Reliability: Civics are known for their reliability, allowing you to focus your budget on modifications rather than repairs. 
• Fun to Drive: Many Civic models, especially the Si versions, are enjoyable to drive even in stock form, making them a rewarding platform to personalize. 

Specific examples of modifications include:

• Engine Tuning: Civics are known for their potential for engine tuning, with many owners upgrading turbos, intakes, and exhausts. 
• Suspension Upgrades: Coilovers and other suspension components can significantly improve handling and adjust ride height. 
• Exterior Styling: Body kits, wheels, and window tint are popular options for changing the car’s appearance. 
• Interior Customization: Seats, steering wheels, and other interior components can be upgraded for a more personalized look and feel. 

In essence, Honda Civics are a great choice for both beginners and experienced car modifiers due to their vast aftermarket support, reliability, and potential for customization.

Is it illegal to put an exhaust on your car?

In the US: No it isn’t legal under federal emissions laws to change your vehicle’s exhaust system. Some states, counties and cities have excessive noise laws.

How much does an exhaust cost for a Honda Civic?

The average cost for a Honda Civic Exhaust Pipe Replacement is between $924 and $991. Labor costs are estimated between $102 and $150 while parts are priced between $822 and $842.