Mufflers & Exhausts Guides & Resources

What is a Cat-Back Exhaust?

A cat-back exhaust system is a popular aftermarket upgrade used to boost the power of a vehicle. The term cat-back refers to a section of an exhaust system. The cat-back is all parts of an exhaust system that coms after the catalytic converter (called “cat”) – hence the name “cat-back”. The cat-back section usually consists of parts like the exhaust pipes from the catalytic converters, the muffler, and the exhaust tailpipe tips. Generally, cat-back systems are equipped with exhaust pipes wider than the stock system and usually shaped in mandrel-bent turns that reduce the backpressure from the exhaust gases. The usual muffler type included in this system is glass packs made from fibreglass, which helps reduce the backpressure and lower the sound. ## What's the difference between a cat-back and a regular exhaust? Besides the cat-back exhaust system, there are other of aftermarket exhaust systems options like the axle-back, header back and turbo-back exhaust systems. ### Axle-back exhaust The axle-back exhaust system consists of parts after the rear axle all the way to the exhaust tips. The exhaust system replaces the original exhaust systems piping section from the mid-pipe (Intermediate pipe), muffler and tips. Compared to the cat-back, the axle section majorly replaces the muffler on a vehicle, making it an easy and less expensive [aftermarket exhaust upgrade](/guides/mufflers-exhausts/how-does-bimodal-exhaust-work), although the boost in power the axle back provides is not as high as a cat-back system. Ultimately, power versus cost will be a defining factor in your choice between the two exhaust systems. ### Header back exhaust This exhaust system is the most comprehensive one yet, as the stock systems are replaced from the header (manifold) all the way to the exhaust tips. The header back aftermarket exhaust consists of the downpipes, catalytic converter, mid-pipes, mufflers and exhaust tips. The header back system, having more comprehensive components than the cat-back system, would cost significantly more and provide more horsepower. ## Are cat-back exhaust systems worth the expense? Although cat-back exhaust systems are a popular aftermarket choice, are they worth the expense? The cat-back exhaust system a popular choice because it offers car lovers looking for a balance between power and cost and increased performance at a decent expense. The cat-back is cost-effective because it does not require a change in the stock catalytic converter and efficient because of its wider pipes and polished muffler. Compared to the stock systems which are usually made from aluminised steel, most cat-back exhaust systems are made of stainless-steel material which is more durable and gives your car great aesthetics. Also, the cat back installations are relatively easy to do on just about any kind of vehicle. It can easily be taken as a DIY project for car lovers. All that’s needed is to bolt the cat-back exhaust system (which consists of the muffler, exhaust pipes and tips) onto where the original exhaust sits. The average cost of a cat-back system ranges from $300 up to $3000. ## Benefits of a cat-back exhaust system The popularity of the cat-back exhaust systems is not random - the cat-back has earned a reputation due to the numerous benefits the exhaust system provides. ### Power Aftermarket cat-back installation is one the best ways to boost the power of your car or truck, as most stock exhaust systems designed to be compact and reduce materials used. With the more spacious pipes on cat-back systems, the vehicle can breathe better, which means more horsepower and less backpressure. ### Cost-effective Another reason why a cat-back system is a popular option is that it offers a decent increase in horsepower without you having to break the bank. The prices range between $300 to $3,000. ## Easy installation Installing cat-back systems are easy and can easily be a DIY project if you are handy. The aftermarket cat-back system only needs to be bolted in place of the stock cat-back system. ### Fuel economy The wider pipes on cat-back exhausts systems help the vehicle stay fuel-efficient because the car engine can now push the exhaust gases through the exhaust pipes with no backpressure. This reduced load on the car engine is what makes the cat back fuel-efficient. ### Sound quality The sound output of the car with the installation of the cat-back is dependent on the type of muffler. The popular options are the straight-through which deadens the sound, and glass pack mufflers which are louder. ## Will a cat-back exhaust give me more horsepower? Most likely - although using an aftermarket exhaust does not always mean more power. It is dependent on the suitability and standard of the system you choose. Because aftermarket systems are usually less restrictive than the original stock system, you can gain up to 50 horsepower and as low as 2-3 horsepower. On average, with the right exhaust system, you can expect your engine to get 2-5% more power. To top off the improved performance, you are bound to see a slight boost in fuel economy.