How Much Is a Full Exhaust Repair?

For most cars in the U.S. in 2025, a full exhaust repair typically runs from $600 to $3,500, and $1,200 to $4,500+ if catalytic converters are involved; luxury, performance, and complex multi-catalyst systems can reach $5,000 to $10,000. Prices vary by vehicle, parts (OEM vs aftermarket), materials (mild steel vs stainless), labor rate, rust/corrosion, and emissions compliance requirements.

What “Full Exhaust Repair” Usually Means

Shops use “full exhaust repair” to describe anything from replacing several rusted sections to fitting an entire system from the engine to the tailpipe. Understanding what’s included helps you interpret estimates and compare quotes fairly.

• Exhaust manifold and gasket (at the engine head)
• Downpipe and flex pipe (absorbs engine movement)
• Catalytic converter(s) and associated piping
• Mid-pipe, resonator, and center section
• Muffler(s) and tailpipes/tips
• Oxygen (O2) sensors and wiring bungs
• Hangers, clamps, flanges, gaskets, and hardware

A “full” job might replace everything, but many repairs target specific failed components. The scope drives the final price more than any single factor.

Typical Price Ranges by Job Scope (U.S., 2025)

The figures below reflect common retail pricing at independent shops; dealership service and high-cost vehicles trend higher. Parts quality, rust, and regional labor rates can shift you up or down these ranges.

• Patch/section repair (weld-in small section or hanger): $150–$450
• Muffler or resonator replacement: $250–$800
• Flex pipe replacement: $250–$650
• Exhaust manifold + gasket (may require stud extraction): $400–$1,500
• Cat-back system (mid-pipe to tips): $600–$1,800 (stainless and SUVs/trucks at the upper end)
• Catalytic converter, single direct-fit: $800–$2,500 aftermarket; $1,200–$3,500+ OEM
• Full system including one or more cats: $1,200–$4,500+ typical; $3,000–$10,000 for luxury/performance or multi-cat setups

Estimates jump most when catalytic converters, manifolds, or heavy rust are involved. Simple rear-section replacements remain comparatively affordable.

What Drives Cost Up or Down

Several vehicle-specific and regional variables can change your out-the-door price, even for the same repair description.

• Vehicle design: Number/placement of catalytic converters; AWD packaging; turbo or V-engine layouts
• Emissions rules: CARB-compliant parts cost more and are mandatory in California and other CARB states
• Parts choice: OEM (dealer) vs aftermarket; mild steel vs stainless; direct-fit vs universal with fabrication
• Labor rate: Commonly $90–$180/hour; metro/coastal areas trend higher
• Rust and corrosion: Seized studs, broken bolts, and thin pipes add time and materials
• O2 sensors: Old sensors often seize; replacement adds $100–$350 each plus labor
• Supply issues: Popular catalytic converters can face backorders due to theft trends and demand
• Hybrid/known-theft targets: Vehicles like Toyota Prius often see higher converter costs and may benefit from anti-theft shields

In short, two similar cars can have very different repair bills if one needs CARB-legal parts, has heavy corrosion, or requires custom fabrication.

Labor and Time Expectations

Time on the lift is a major cost component. These are typical flat-rate ranges for competent shops; severe rust or broken hardware can add hours.

• Muffler or resonator: 0.7–1.5 hours
• Flex pipe: 1.0–2.0 hours
• Manifold + gasket: 2.0–5.0 hours (more if studs break)
• Single catalytic converter: 1.0–3.0 hours; multi-cat systems: 2.5–6.0 hours
• Cat-back system: 1.5–3.0 hours
• Full front-to-rear replacement: 3.0–6.0+ hours, depending on complexity and rust

Multiply hours by your local labor rate to estimate labor cost, then add parts, shop supplies, and taxes for a realistic total.

Do You Need a Full Repair or a Partial Fix?

Symptoms can hint at whether a targeted replacement will suffice or if broader work is prudent.

• Loud growl or sudden roar: Often a failed muffler, flex pipe, or a rusted-through section
• Metallic rattle: Loose heat shield, broken baffle, or deteriorating catalytic converter substrate
• Exhaust smell in cabin: Potential manifold or underfloor leak—address promptly for safety
• Check Engine Light with codes P0420/P0430: Possible catalytic converter or O2 sensor issue
• Failed emissions/smog test: Leak or converter efficiency fault
• Visible holes, flaking rust, or hanging pipes: Corrosion-driven replacement likely

A credible shop will inspect on a lift, smoke-test for leaks, scan for codes, and show you the failure points before recommending scope.

How to Get an Accurate Estimate

Clear information and apples-to-apples requests make quotes more precise and comparable.

1. Provide your VIN and emission designation (Federal vs CARB) to ensure correct parts
2. Ask for line-item pricing: parts, labor hours, shop fees, taxes
3. Specify OEM vs aftermarket and material (stainless vs aluminized/mild steel)
4. Confirm CARB compliance if you’re in a CARB state; request EO numbers on converters
5. Request photos or old parts back to verify work performed
6. Ask about warranties: parts and labor, and whether rust perforation is covered
7. Check parts availability/lead time, especially for catalytic converters

Following these steps reduces surprises and helps you compare true value rather than headline price alone.

Ways to Save Without Cutting Corners

You can control cost while keeping the repair legal and durable.

• Use a reputable independent exhaust shop; they often beat dealership labor rates
• Choose quality aftermarket or direct-fit stainless parts where appropriate
• Consider a cat-back kit for complete rear-section refresh at a packaged price
• Replace aging O2 sensors during converter work to avoid later labor duplication
• Combine adjacent worn sections now to save on future labor
• Install a catalytic converter shield if your model is theft-prone
• Avoid illegal “cat delete” or non-compliant parts—fines and failed inspections cost more

Smart part selection and timing can shave hundreds off the bill while preserving reliability and compliance.

Insurance and Warranty Considerations

Some exhaust work may be covered, but the details matter.

• Catalytic converter theft: Often covered under comprehensive insurance (minus deductible)
• Federal emissions warranty: 8 years/80,000 miles for catalytic converters and engine control module; 2 years/24,000 miles for other emissions parts
• CARB/PZEV vehicles: In certain states, many emissions components carry longer coverage (up to 15 years/150,000 miles on some PZEV models)
• TSBs/recalls: Check for manufacturer actions on manifolds or converters
• Extended warranties: May cover exhaust components; read exclusions for rust/corrosion

Verify coverage before authorizing repairs—documentation can shift costs meaningfully in your favor.

Outside the U.S.: Quick Reference

If you’re in the UK or EU, labor and parts pricing differ, but the same principles apply.

• UK typical ranges: £400–£2,000 for major exhaust work; £800–£3,500+ with catalytic converters
• Labor: Roughly £70–£150/hour; London/SE higher
• MOT failures commonly stem from leaks or excessive noise; ensure parts are type-approved where required

Local regulations (type approval, emissions standards) and labor rates will shape your final bill.

Summary

Expect $600–$3,500 for a “full” exhaust repair on many vehicles, rising to $1,200–$4,500+ when catalytic converters are included, with high-end or complex systems reaching $5,000–$10,000. Your exact cost hinges on scope, emissions compliance, parts choice, labor rate, and rust. Get a line-item quote using your VIN, confirm OEM vs aftermarket and CARB compliance where needed, and consider preventive add-ons (like O2 sensors and anti-theft shields) to protect your investment and avoid repeat labor.

How much does it cost to get your car exhaust fixed?

The good news is that there is an abundance of shops that can repair or replace exhaust systems. The bad news is that the cost can range from $500 to $1,500, and that does not include pricey catalytic converters or manifolds.

How much to replace a full exhaust?

Location

Location	Average cost range
London	£200 – £600
Other cities and suburbs	£150 – £500
Rural areas	£100 – £400

How much does it cost for a full exhaust system?

How much does a full exhaust system cost? The cost of a full exhaust system can vary significantly, depending on the make and model of your vehicle, the materials used, and the brand’s reputation. On average, a complete exhaust system might range from $300 to over $2000.

Is it expensive to fix an exhaust?

Exhaust issues aren’t something to ignore. From small leaks that make your car loud to manifold cracks that affect engine performance, costs range widely depending on what’s failing. On average, drivers should budget $300 – $1,500 for exhaust work, and sometimes more for complex jobs.