How much does it cost to replace an entire exhaust system?
Replacing an entire exhaust system typically costs between about $600 and $3,000 for most passenger cars, with higher costs for luxury or performance models. The final price depends on parts quality (OEM vs aftermarket), the scope of the job (cat-back, header-back, etc.), and local labor rates.
The cost landscape is shaped by how much of the exhaust is being replaced, what materials are used, and how complex the job is to fit a new system around sensors, clamps, and heat shields. This article explains the main configurations, cost ranges, and what to expect when budgeting for a full exhaust replacement.
What counts as a full exhaust replacement
In the auto industry, “full” can refer to several levels of replacement. Below are the common configurations from least to most invasive, which directly influence price and installation complexity.
Scope definitions
Understanding these terms helps set expectations: axle-back replaces only rear sections; cat-back adds the catalytic converter to tailpipe; header-back (manifold-back) replaces from the headers to the tailpipe; turbo-back covers all upstream exhaust components on turbocharged engines. Each step adds parts and labor.
- Axle-back replacement – Replaces the exhaust path from the rear axle to the tailpipes (mufflers and tips). Usually the most affordable option and often used to alter sound without touching the catalytic converter.
- Cat-back replacement – Replaces from the catalytic converter to the tailpipe, often including mid-pipes and resonators. More expensive than axle-back but common for noticeable sound and performance gains.
- Header-back (manifold-back) replacement – Replaces from the exhaust manifolds/headers to the tailpipe; typically requires more labor and can involve downpipes. Chosen for significant performance and sound improvements.
- Turbo-back replacement – For turbocharged engines, replaces all exhaust components from the turbo outlet to the tailpipe. Usually the most expensive option due to complexity and high-performance parts.
Each option affects cost through parts quality, fitment difficulty, and the need for sensors or timing adjustments. For vehicles with restrictive emissions setups, additional components or calibrations may be required.
Cost ranges and what drives price
Prices for a full exhaust replacement vary by vehicle, parts choice, and where you have the work done. Labor rates in the United States commonly run about $75 to $125 per hour, with higher rates in major metropolitan areas. The following ranges reflect typical installed prices for common configurations in the current market.
The ranges below assume standard performance-oriented aftermarket parts and a straightforward installation. Real-world prices can be higher if a vehicle has unique routing, sensors, or if OEM parts are required to preserve warranty or emissions compliance.
- Axle-back replacement: Parts typically $100–$400. Labor about $150–$500. Total installed price roughly $250–$900.
- Cat-back replacement: Parts $200–$600. Labor $250–$900. Total installed price roughly $450–$1,500.
- Header-back / turbo-back replacements (more involved): Parts $500–$2,000. Labor $600–$1,800. Total installed price roughly $1,100–$3,800.
- OEM replacement with factory parts: Parts $300–$1,300. Labor $300–$900. Total installed price roughly $600–$2,200.
- High-end or specialty systems (stainless steel, titanium, or rare performance applications): Parts $1,000–$5,000. Labor $600–$1,800. Total installed price roughly $1,600–$6,800.
Again, these figures can vary widely by vehicle and region. Always obtain multiple quotes and ask for a detailed parts-and-labor breakdown to compare apples-to-apples.
Choosing where to get the work done and what to expect
Dealer, independent shop, and specialty performance shops each have pros and cons. OEM replacements at a dealership may offer compatibility and warranty benefits, while independent shops can provide competitive pricing and customization. Check for experience with your vehicle’s make and model, certifications, and a clear warranty policy on parts and labor.
Expect the process to involve a parts list, an approximate labor estimate, and a test run to verify sensor readings and exhaust leak checks after installation. If your vehicle has a catalytic converter or O2 sensors in the exhaust stream, ensure the shop tests for codes and clears them after the install.
Summary
Replacing an entire exhaust system is a significant automotive service with cost ranges that scale with how much of the system is replaced, the parts selected, and where you have the work performed. For most cars, a cat-back replacement is a common middle-ground, while axle-back offers a more budget-conscious option and header-back or turbo-back suits higher-performance goals. Always compare quotes, confirm parts quality, and consider emissions compliance and warranty implications when budgeting.
