When did Dodge add active exhaust?
Dodge first offered Active Exhaust with the 2012 model year on its SRT performance cars, pairing exhaust-valve control with selectable modes to switch between a quieter, drone-free ride and a louder, track-ready tone.
The origins of Dodge’s Active Exhaust
Active Exhaust emerged as part of Dodge’s push to blend everyday usability with high-performance acoustics. The system employed electronically actuated exhaust valves to alter backpressure and tone, typically switching between a softer street voice and a louder, more aggressive note when sport-or track-oriented modes were engaged. The first widely publicized applications appeared in the 2012 Challenger and Charger SRT8 lineup, where the technology was marketed as part of the Performance Exhaust package.
Early adopters in the Challenger and Charger lines
The 2012 Challenger SRT8 and Charger SRT8 models were among the first to offer a real Active Exhaust experience. Buyers could opt into a louder exhaust tone through valve control, with the option often integrated into Dodge’s Performance Exhaust or SRT package offerings. This setup aimed to reward spirited driving with a more visceral soundtrack while preserving a quieter cadence for daily driving.
How Active Exhaust works in practice
At its core, Active Exhaust uses electronically controlled valves placed in the exhaust pathways to open or close, changing the system’s acoustics and performance characteristics. In everyday driving, the valves may keep backpressure low and noise modest; in sportier modes, the valves open more fully to produce a louder, more aggressive exhaust note. The feature is commonly tied to Dodge’s Drive Modes, so selecting a mode like Sport or Track would often prompt the system to deliver a louder tone automatically.
Control methods and user experience
Most implementations offered a dedicated control (manual button) or were linked to drive-mode selection. In some years and trims, drivers could override automatic behavior to maintain a louder or quieter exhaust tone independent of the current mode. Across generations, the exact naming—whether labeled Active Exhaust or simply Performance Exhaust with valve control—varied by model year and market.
Evolution across Dodge generations
Throughout the mid-to-late 2010s, the concept of valve-controlled exhaust became more common in Dodge’s performance lineup, especially as new variants like the Hellcat expanded the range. While naming often included “Active Exhaust” in marketing materials, some models and brochures referred to the feature under the broader umbrella of “Performance Exhaust.” As Dodge rolled out new engines and drivetrains, the core idea remained: a selectable, valve-controlled exhaust tone designed to balance comfort and drama.
From the SRT era to modern Dodge performance options
As the lineup evolved (including the 6.2-liter supercharged variants and other high-performance configurations), the active-exhaust concept persisted, albeit with branding and availability that could differ by year, trim, and region. Buyers in later years often encountered the feature as part of a performance exhaust package rather than as a standalone option in every model year.
Current status and practical takeaway
Today, Dodge continues to offer exhaust systems with valve control on many high-performance models, though the exact terminology and availability can vary by model year. If you’re shopping for a Challenger or Charger, check the window sticker or dealership materials for “Active Exhaust,” “Performance Exhaust,” or valve-controlled exhaust to confirm whether the system is included and how it operates in your preferred configuration.
Summary: Dodge introduced Active Exhaust in the 2012 model year for its SRT performance cars, enabling selectable exhaust tones via electronically controlled valves. The feature evolved across generations and remains a feature of many Dodge performance exhaust setups, though naming and availability can vary by year and model.
Do Hellcats have active exhaust?
Hellcat owners can opt to retain their factory active exhaust system by transferring the valves to the Borla® system or opt for a Cat-Back™ system with active exhaust simulators.
How much HP does active exhaust add?
Also note that the active exhaust gives you a whopping 6 more horsepower. It's not exactly a must have, but it's one of those things you might as well get because it is better to have it than not.
What year dodge charger to stay away from?
The Dodge Charger years to avoid are generally the earlier models from 2006–2008 and some from the 2011–2012 and 2014 model years due to frequent recalls, electrical issues, and transmission problems. Specifically, the 2006-2008 models had teething problems with a new engine and electronics, while the 2011-2012 years are flagged for electrical and powertrain issues, and the 2014 model had numerous recalls, including critical ones for airbags and cruise control.
This video discusses some of the worst Dodge Charger years and their issues: 55sAntique TAGSYouTube · Jan 7, 2025
Dodge Charger years to avoid
- 2006–2008: These were the initial years of the redesigned model, and they suffered from "teething troubles," including issues with the new 5.7L Hemi engine and complex electronics. They also had a higher number of customer complaints and costly repairs.
- 2011–2012: These models were known for electrical problems and issues with the powertrain, including transmission concerns.
- 2014: This year saw a significant number of recalls, some of which were major and potentially dangerous. Issues included cruise control that wouldn't disengage, a faulty alternator, and problems with the airbags.
Common issues to watch for
- Transmission problems: Slippage, hard shifts, and intermittent shifting were reported across multiple generations, particularly in the 2006-2010 models and some of the 2011-present models.
- Electrical issues: This was a recurring problem, especially in the early models and 2011-2012 years.
- Engine issues: The early 5.7L Hemi in the 2006-2008 models had some problems, which were mostly resolved in later years.
- Recalls: Be sure to check the specific recall history for any year, especially 2014, as some recalls involved serious safety concerns.
Does the Dodge Charger have active exhaust?
The valves in this active exhaust system are in place to control the output of the exhaust noise and are closed to keep sound levels at a minimum when the engine is idling and/or in light throttle situations.
