The world of aftermarket exhaust systems is nothing short of broad
in spectrum. An immense number of individual manufacturers have stepped up to
the plate, all hoping to stand atop this enormously popular sector within the
automotive industry. This often presents difficulty for consumers lost in the
sea of manufacturers and their products, wishing for nothing more than to
locate the perfect custom performance exhaust system for their vehicle.
However, upon closer examination, it becomes apparent that a lone few aftermarket exhaust manufacturers stand head and shoulders above their competitors. Of these premier manufacturers, few stand quite as tall as MagnaFlow. Since 1981, MagnaFlow has held a prestigious spot as the market leader in custom exhaust production and sales.
Why MagnaFlow?
Magnaflow’s history within the custom aftermarket exhaust subsector of the automotive industry is quite extensive. The company, founded by Gennaro “Jerry” Paolone in 1981, originally served as a distributor of custom exhaust components. However, after a few short years, Paolone hatched much larger plans for his fledgling company. The decision was made that MagnaFlow would begin producing and marketing its own line of aftermarket exhaust components. In relatively short order, the company’s catalog of aftermarket parts grew to be vast in scope.
Today, Magnaflow continues to operate upon the same business model, serving as one of the most comprehensive manufacturers of aftermarket exhaust components in the world. The company now caters to consumers in nearly 100 countries, providing an endless array of products from which one can choose.
The following are a number of reasons why MagnaFlow is the universal answer to every consumer’s automotive exhaust needs.
MagnaFlow’s Slogan Says It All: Quality. Power. Sound.
If you have spent any amount of time delving into the world of premium aftermarket components, you are likely quite familiar with MagnaFlow’s slogan: Quality. Power. Sound. However, to MagnaFlow, this is much more than a slogan. It is their entire business philosophy in a nutshell. Each of these values serves as a cornerstone of the company’s success, both in the past and at the moment.
Quality
MagnaFlow exercises an “if it is worth doing, it is worth doing right” mentality toward all of its manufacturing efforts. The company uses only high-quality materials within its production processes, all of which have been relentlessly tested to ensure extensive durability. From stainless steel mufflers to aluminized exhaust kits, MagnaFlow’s selection of premium materials is second to none.
Additionally, MagnaFlow is an ISO-9001 certified company, which uses only the most modern of production practices. All components are manufactured and assembled primarily in the United States from materials sourced from USA-based suppliers. MagnaFlow believes so strongly in the quality of its exhaust components that it backs all such products with a lifetime warranty.
Power
MagnaFlow believes wholeheartedly in giving its consumers exactly what they want, which has an overwhelming tendency to be rooted in a request for “more power”. Therefore, MagnaFlow has created a performance-minded culture, based on supplying only those components which provide unabated performance potential. The company has even coined the phrase “MagnaFlow Performance” to describe their adherence to this principle. “If it doesn’t produce power, we don’t make it,” reiterates MagnaFlow’s webpage.
In a bid to bolster the performance characteristics of their products, MagnaFlow employs the use of several in-ground dynos, multiple flow benches, and a host of highly sensitive sound testing equipment within their facilities. This allows necessary testing to be conducted in an in-house manner as a means of ensuring second-to-none quality and next-level horsepower-producing output.
Sound
If you have ever had the pleasure of hearing the rich tonal characteristics of a MagnaFlow exhaust system, it is surely an experience that you did not soon forget. MagnaFlow exhaust systems carry a sound all their own, which is unmistakable when heard. This, however, is not by coincidence, as each of the company’s numerous exhaust offerings has been designed to provide consumer’s vehicles with the legendarily smooth, deep tone for which MagnaFlow is known.
Each new MagnaFlow Muffler is designed with straight-through, inlet/outlet efficiency in mind, featuring a perforated stainless-steel core, mesh wrap, and tightly packed acoustical fiber fill. This ensures uniformity across the board and prevents tonal degradation under a load, all of which should be highly appreciated by MagnaFlow’s immense consumer base. Customers have come to rely upon MagnaFlow as their one-stop-shop for the enhancement of vehicle acoustics.
Product Volume & Variety
One of the most significant reasons to consider MagnaFlow for your next automotive exhaust purchase pertains to the company’s immense product selection. Few, if any, other exhaust manufacturers today can boast of such a significant and diverse inventory. From exhaust tips to comprehensive full-length exhaust kits, MagnaFlow has exactly what is needed to meet a consumer’s every need and is adding new products to their inventory monthly.
MagnaFlow is considered as the ultimate one-stop vendor for anything and everything exhaust-related. In a matter of minutes, one can source every component that is needed to complete their custom build and have each particular item sent to their doorstep as a matter of convenience. As a result, consumers are presented with the opportunity to save time and effort along with a few dollars as well.
This has essentially eliminated the hassle associated with making endless trips to various storefront retail locations in hopes of finally locating the component which you have been searching for. If any such item is exhaust-related, MagnaFlow has it in stock and ready to be shipped.
The following are some of the most popular products within MagnaFlow’s vast inventory.
- Axle-Back Exhaust Systems
- Cat-Back Exhaust Systems
- Crossmember-Back Exhaust Systems
- Turbo-Back Exhaust Systems
- Direct-Fit Catalytic Converters
- Performance Mufflers
- Tru-X Pipes
- Custom Mandrel-Bent Y-Pipes
- Dual Exhaust Kits
Superior Fitment
An ill-fitting exhaust system is typically nothing short of immensely aggravating. This is a fact that many experienced consumers have become all too familiar with. An exhaust system of this nature often requires a substantial degree of pulling, prodding, and prying in order to mount. This wastes a significant amount of time and energy and turns the entire installation process into a monumental headache.
This is a scenario that the folks at MagnaFlow are quite familiar with. As such, the company has engineered its products to possess superior fitment qualities and to be installed in a seamless fashion, free of time consumptive headaches. This ideology is consistent with MagnaFlow’s dedicated philosophy of keeping the needs of their customers at the forefront of all that they do.
This approach to manufacturing is what ultimately gave way to MangnaFlow’s Direct-Fit line of products, which are precisely engineered to install in the exact manner as a vehicle’s OEM exhaust components. Each product within the Direct-Fit line can be installed without any need for cutting, welding, or any other form of fabrication. Simply remove your old component, slip the Direct-Fit replacement into position, and clamp it in place. No more welding in awkward positions or studying cuts to ensure that they are flush.
Consumers will also be pleased to find that MagnaFlow provides a model-specific, custom exhaust solution for nearly any vehicle on the road today. From performance cars such as the Dodge Charger and Ford Mustang to full-size trucks like the Chevy Silverado, GMC Sierra, Nissan Titan, Toyota Tundra, and Dodge Ram 1500, MagnaFlow has a tremendous scope of exhaust upgrades for your next project.
Emissions-Compliant Solutions
Yet another reason that MagnaFlow ranks among the top tier of all aftermarket parts manufacturers is their devotion to providing emissions-compliant exhaust components. This is an ever-expanding market sector, as emissions standards are growing increasingly stringent across the world. Consumers also find value in these units due to the presence of mandatory smog testing in a number of states.
This presents consumers with the chance to upgrade their vehicle’s exhaust system while simultaneously satisfying all CARB (California Air Resources Board) related mandates. As such, the purchase of emissions-compliant MagnaFlow exhaust components presents a win-win scenario for motorists.
The most notable of emissions adherent components within MagnaFlow’s current inventory is the company's numerous catalytic converters. At their very core, catalytic converters are designed to reduce the number of harmful compounds that are emitted into the atmosphere as a byproduct of combustion. Catalytic converters contain a core composition of platinum, palladium, and rhodium, which is used to facilitate a reaction that converts pollutants into a less harmful state. However, not all aftermarket catalytic converters are as efficient as is required by law.
This presented an unfulfilled need, to which MagnaFlow provided a solution. The company offers both CARB Compliant Catalytic Converters and Federal Emissions Compliant Catalytic Converters. The difference between each of these two product lines lies in their relative efficiency in converting hydrocarbons and other noxious chemicals, into a non-hazardous byproduct.
As a general rule, CARB emissions standards are slightly more stringent than those enforced by the EPA (Federally Mandated). Therefore, a CARB compliant catalytic converter should be somewhat better equipped to reduce noxious exhaust emissions than a federally compliant catalytic converter. Much of one’s choice between the two pertains to the governing laws of the state where they reside. However, MagnaFlow has consumers covered no matter their specific needs.
Another added benefit to the use of a MagnaFlow emissions-compliant catalytic converter is that it will not trigger the onset of a pesky check engine light. Many aftermarket catalytic converters do not conform to the exact flow rate which is expected by a particular vehicle’s OBD II system. As such, out-of-parameter data is relayed to the engine’s computer, whereby a trouble code is set, and a check engine light is illuminated.
On the contrary, emissions compliant MagnaFlow Cats adhere to the same OEM standards set forth by a vehicle’s manufacturer and will not lead to any data-related discrepancies. This keeps both consumers and their vehicles happy for the long haul.
Numerous Performance Options
MagnaFlow does not believe in taking a one-size-fits-all approach to exhaust performance. Instead, the manufacturer seeks to provide consumers with components that meet their individual needs and achieve the degree of performance which they desire. Aside from their numerous custom muffler options, MagnaFlow has also produced a total of 4 function-specific exhaust series for consumers to choose from.
Systems within each series showcase a specific set of operating characteristics, allowing consumers to select a system from the series that is most applicable to their desired application. This ensures that all consumers are provided with an array of easy-to-install, prefabricated exhaust systems to choose from, all of which offer their own unique performance attributes and tonal characteristics.
The following are the four individual series of specialty MagnaFlow Performance Exhaust Systems from which consumers can make their selection.
Street Series
MagnaFlow’s Street Series Exhaust Systems are designed to provide versatile performance and perfect tonal composition for on-street use. Exhaust systems within this series provide a rich, robust exterior note yet are not overly pronounced as to become bothersome to those behind the wheel. Street Series Exhaust Systems also provide moderate gains in the realm of performance.
All Street Series Exhaust Systems are mandrel-bent and composed of high-quality stainless steel for extreme durability. Each system within this series is also offered in two individual finishes. Consumers can choose between a polished stainless-steel finish and an alternative black-coated finish.
Competition Series
If your vehicle spends the majority of its life on the track where noise ordinances are of no concern and outright performance rules supreme, then MagnaFlow’s Competition Series Exhaust Systems will see to your every need. Exhaust systems within this series feature MagnaFlow Straight-Through Mufflers for increased exhaust flow and enhanced performance. Additionally, Competition Series Exhaust Systems have also been designed in a manner that cuts mass and reduces overall weight.
MagnaFlow’s Competition Series Exhaust Systems provide a far more aggressive tone than those offered within the Street Series. The system’s exterior sound is quite robust, and unmistakable in nature, even sounding relatively pronounced to those situated within the vehicle’s cabin.
Rock Crawler Series
While many consumers are well-aware of MagnaFlow’s legacy on both the street and the track, far fewer realize the extent to which the company has invested themselves within the off-road market. MagnaFlow’s Rock Crawler Series Exhaust Systems are specifically designed as a trail-ready option for off-road enthusiasts the world over. Exhaust systems within this series can be installed with ease and provide ample ground clearance to navigate over anything that the trail throws your way.
Rock Crawler Series Systems produce an aggressive exhaust note capable of ringing out across the rugged landscape yet is moderate enough in tone as to be comfortable to all who are along for the ride. This trail-ready exhaust system is just begging to be fitted underneath any Jeep Wrangler that spends much of its days far beyond the pavement.
xMOD Series
If you are currently on the fence regarding the exact sound that you wish to achieve from the installation of a custom aftermarket exhaust system, MagnaFlow has engineered a way for consumers to have their cake and eat it too. The xMOD Series Exhaust System comes with numerous interchangeable modules, presenting consumers with the ability to alternate between tonal characteristics on command.
The xMOD Series Exhaust System’s muffler modules can be quickly interchanged with one another, wasting little time, thanks to the company’s use of race-inspired V-band clamps. Each particular module carries its own distinct exhaust note, allowing for on-the-fly sound adjustment. Exhaust systems within this series also feature MagnaFlow’s signature “No Drone” technology, which eliminates unwanted in-cabin noise that often accompanies the installation of aftermarket exhaust systems.
Custom Components for Every Build
At times, consumers often find themselves in the midst of a unique vision for their vehicle’s custom exhaust system, which they feel cannot be achieved through the use of a prefabricated kit. In times like these, a mechanically savvy individual is left to forge a path by completing a custom build of their own design. However, in doing so, one often encounters a number of subsequent difficulties along the way.
In many instances, it can become relatively tedious to source every component which is needed for a custom build. While ordering headers, exhaust pipes, catalytic converters, and mufflers can be rather straightforward, sourcing any number of additional parts and hardware-related items can be another thing altogether. Locating all that one needs for such a project typically requires repeat visits to multiple retail parts houses, waiting on backordered parts, and attempting to check for proper fitment of one component against that which it corresponds to.
Fortunately, MagnaFlow has eliminated much of this hassle by providing instant access to everything that a custom build could require. Consumers are also able to easily navigate through the wealth of components currently offered by MagnaFlow. This is thanks, in large part, to the company’s practice of labeling parts in a no-nonsense fashion, complete with simple-to-understand sizing guides.
MagnaFlow offers an extensive array of hangers, clamps, bends, X/Y pipes, collectors, cutouts, and valves. The bulk of these components are available in a vast range of sizes and configurations. This allows consumers to find the exact component they are looking for as opposed to being forced to modify universal parts to fit.
Warranty
While many manufacturers claim that their exhaust components are built to rigorous standards and are superior in construction, far fewer back their products to the same degree as MagnaFlow. The bulk of MagnaFlow products are warrantied for life against blowouts or defects in material or workmanship, so long as ownership is retained by the unit's original purchaser.
This attribute is of value to consumers, as one can count on MagnaFlow products to stand the test of time and provide years of trouble-free service. However, if an issue does arise, a consumer is isolated from the incurrence of any additional expenditure since they will be provided with a comparable replacement. In essence, a purchase of any MagnaFlow exhaust component is a purchase for the life of your vehicle.
Additional MagnaFlow warranty policy information is as follows.
- Stainless Steel Systems: Limited Lifetime Warranty against Manufacturing Defects
- Black Finish Systems: 1-Year Warranty on Black Finish, Limited Lifetime Warranty against Manufacturing Defects
- Titanium Finish Systems: 1-Year Warranty on Titanium Finish, Limited Lifetime Warranty against Manufacturing Defects
- Carbon Fiber Systems: Limited Lifetime Warranty against Manufacturing Defects on Stainless Steel, No Warranty on Carbon Fiber
- Aluminized Systems: 1-Year Limited Warranty
- Stainless Steel Mufflers: Limited Lifetime Warranty against Manufacturing Defects
While exceptions pertaining to the above-listed warranty policies are rather limited in nature, they are worthy of one’s consideration. These exceptions are as follows.
- Any component which is installed on a vehicle intended for commercial or racing use.
- Any component which has been incorrectly installed, modified, or otherwise applied to a vehicle other than that for which it was intended.