Best Header-Back Exhaust Systems of 2026
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Header-back exhaust systems are a popular aftermarket upgrade for car enthusiasts looking to improve their vehicle's performance and sound. These systems replace the factory exhaust system from the headers all the way back to the muffler, allowing for increased exhaust flow and reduced back pressure. This results in improved horsepower and torque, as well as a more aggressive exhaust note. Header-back exhaust systems are available in a variety of materials, including stainless steel and aluminized steel, and can be customized with different muffler options to achieve the desired sound. Overall, a header-back exhaust system is a great way to enhance the driving experience of any performance vehicle.
At a Glance: Our Top Picks
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Top 7 Header-Back Exhaust Systems
Flowmaster 817158 Super 44 Series Exhaust System
This header-back exhaust system is made of mandrel bent 16 gauge stainless steel tubing, which is durable and easy to install with included hangers and hardware. It provides an aggressive sound exterior exhaust tone, perfect for Chevy Nova V8 engine drivers who want to make a statement on the road.
Flowmaster Super 44 Series Exhaust System for Ford Mustang
The Flowmaster 817281 Super 44 Series Header-Back Exhaust System for Ford Mustang features mandrel bent 16 gauge stainless steel tubing, which provides durability and strength. It delivers an aggressive sound exterior exhaust tone that enhances your driving experience. This exhaust system comes with hangers and hardware, making installation easy and quick. Furthermore, the header-back system ensures an efficient, unrestricted flow of exhaust gases, which results in improved engine performance and fuel economy.
Flowmaster Header-back System - Dual Rear Exit
The Flowmaster Header-back System is a mandrel bent 16 Gauge Tubing that offers moderate to aggressive sound exterior exhaust tone. The product includes hangers and hardware for easy installation. The Header-back System is perfect for those who want to upgrade their car's exhaust system and enhance its performance.
Flowmaster 817483 Axle-back System 409S
This American-made Axle-back System boasts a package dimension of 58.5 L x 11.25 H x 16.25 W (inches) and weighs 44 pounds. The product is categorized as Header-Back Exhaust Systems, and its part number is 817483.
Borla S-Type Exhaust System for Silverado/Sierra 1500
The Borla S-Type Exhaust System for Silverado/Sierra 1500 is an Auto Part made in the United States. It is a Header-Back Exhaust System that comes in a package weighing 61.0lbs with dimensions of 152.4 cm L x40.64 cm W x33.02 cm H. The S-Type Exhaust System is a high-performance exhaust system that enhances the sound of your engine and improves its overall performance. The system is made from high-quality materials that can withstand extreme temperatures and harsh weather conditions. With this exhaust system, you can expect a significant increase in horsepower and torque, as well as improved fuel efficiency. The S-Type Exhaust System is easy to install and comes with all the necessary hardware and instructions.
Flowmaster 817725 American Thunder Kit
The Flowmaster 817725 American Thunder Kit is a high-performance header-back exhaust system designed with stainless steel construction, both rear and side exits, patented Delta Flow technology, and mandrel bent design. This kit is perfect for those who want to enhance their vehicle's horsepower, torque, and sound quality.
Flowmaster 17200 Complete Kits
This product is a header-back exhaust system that includes all the necessary hardware for installation. The kit consists of 3.00 inch tubing, H-pipe, and Super 40 Series Mufflers that create an aggressive and deep exhaust tone. It is designed specifically for 68-72 GM A-Body V-8 models. With this kit, you can improve your vehicle's performance by increasing exhaust flow, reducing backpressure, and enhancing the engine's overall sound.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is a header back exhaust system?
A header back exhaust system is a fairly involved modification that will free up your exhaust gas flow by replacing pretty much all of your exhaust system components, from the header collector to the tailpipes.
2. Is dual or single exhaust better?
However, most would agree that a dual exhaust will give you better performance gains compared to a single exhaust system. Because the exhaust gases exit each manifold through two pipes rather than just one, they can exit the engine faster and provide additional horsepower gains.
3. What are the two types of exhaust systems?
The three main types of exhaust systems are header-back, cat-back, and axle-back. Depending on what type of system you choose, aftermarket systems will come with some combination of header or intermediate pipes, crossover pipe, catalytic converter, mufflers, and tailpipes.
4. Is cat back exhaust better than straight pipe?
Which one should you go for, straight pipes or catback exhaust? Generally, it would be best to choose catback exhaust over the straight piping. Catback exhaust systems are legal and significantly increase horsepower and loudness – they are ideal for every day drivers or those who often run on the street.
During our header-back exhaust system research, we found 7 header-back exhaust system products and shortlisted 7 quality products. We collected and analyzed 3,389 customer reviews through our big data system to write the header-back exhaust systems list. We found that most customers choose header-back exhaust systems with an average price of $777.62.
The header-back exhaust systems are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of header-back exhaust systems, including Flowmaster, Borla. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 279 consumers with an average rating of 4.6.
Robert Reyes is a dedicated writer from San Francisco with a bachelor of degree in mechanics and a bachelor of degree in marketing. He focuses on making some complicated topics simple and enjoys explaining complex and technical things in an easy-to-understand way.