How much will it cost to replace an exhaust?
Replacing an exhaust typically costs between a few hundred and a few thousand dollars, depending on what’s being replaced and the vehicle. Muffler work is commonly in the low hundreds, a cat-back system runs roughly $600–$1,200, catalytic converters can push totals into the thousands, and a full exhaust replacement can exceed $2,000 in some cases.
Costs reflect parts and labor, and vary by car make, location, and shop. Here is a breakdown of common replacement options and the factors that influence price.
Cost Ranges by Replacement Type
Common replacement options and typical price ranges. Prices vary by vehicle and shop, but the ranges below provide a baseline for planning.
- Muffler replacement: typically about $150–$300 for parts, $75–$150 for labor, for a total of roughly $225–$450.
- Exhaust pipe or resonator replacement: parts around $100–$400, labor $75–$150, for a total of roughly $175–$550.
- Cat-back exhaust replacement: parts about $400–$900, labor $150–$450, for a total of roughly $550–$1,350.
- Catalytic converter replacement: parts about $600–$2,000, labor $150–$500, for a total of roughly $750–$2,500.
- Full exhaust system replacement (pipes, resonator, mufflers, sensors): parts about $800–$2,000, labor $300–$800, for a total of roughly $1,100–$2,800.
Prices shown include both parts and labor and assume a standard vehicle with typical access. Vehicles with heavy rust, rare parts, or sensors to replace can push costs higher, and some shops charge more in urban areas or for labor-intensive jobs. In addition, catalytic converters have become a more expensive component in some markets due to supply and theft concerns.
What Drives the Cost?
Several factors determine the final bill beyond the replacement type itself. Understanding these helps explain why prices vary from one shop to another.
- Vehicle make, model and engine type, which affect part availability and fitment.
- Labor rates by region and the shop’s overhead, which can swing the total by hundreds of dollars.
- Parts choice, including OEM vs aftermarket, stainless steel vs aluminized steel, and warranties.
- Extent of corrosion or damage to mounting points, which can add labor time and parts if brackets, gaskets, or hangers are deteriorated.
- Auxiliary components tied to the exhaust, such as oxygen sensors or the catalytic converter’s heat shields, that may need replacement or repositioning.
- Vehicle-specific constraints, such as access to the exhaust from the undercarriage or proximity to other components.
In short, the bill reflects both what’s being replaced and the conditions under which the replacement occurs. Expect higher quotes in areas with high labor costs or when the job involves complex sensors or significant rust.
Do-It-Yourself Considerations
Replacing an exhaust yourself can save money on labor, but it’s not suitable for every car or every mechanic. Basic muffler swaps are more feasible for DIY enthusiasts with proper tools and safety practices, while catalytic converter or full-system work typically requires professional installation.
- Estimated savings: DIY muffler work may cut total costs by a portion of the labor, though parts costs remain the same.
- Risks: exhaust leaks, improper alignment, unsafe lifting, and damage to sensors or overheating components.
- Tools and safety: jack stands, wrenches, pipe cutter or saws for some jobs, penetrating oil, and proper PPE.
- When to seek a pro: if you encounter heavy corrosion, rusted bolts, or unfamiliar high-heat components, or if the job involves catalytic converters or oxygen sensors.
Always verify local regulations on emissions work and consult your vehicle’s service manual before attempting any exhaust repair yourself.
Summary
Exhaust replacement costs vary widely with the scope of the job and the vehicle. Mufflers and simple pipe work are commonly in the low hundreds, cat-back systems in the mid-range, catalytic converters can push costs into the thousands, and a full exhaust replacement can reach into the $2,000s depending on parts and labor. Regional labor rates, part choice, and the vehicle’s condition are the main price drivers. For those shopping around, obtaining written estimates from multiple shops and clarifying whether parts are OEM or aftermarket can help prevent sticker shock. If in doubt, a professional inspection can identify whether the issue is a simple muffler replacement or something requiring a full exhaust overhaul.
