Upgrading your ride’s exhaust system can completely transform the look, sound, and power of your vehicle. But quality exhaust upgrades don’t come cheap. As one of the top names in performance exhausts, Flowmaster offers premium systems designed to boost horsepower, torque, and throttle response – but at a price.
So how much will it really cost to upgrade to a rockin’ Flowmaster exhaust? What factors affect the price? And where can you find the best deals to get the most bang for your buck? I’ve had my fair share of exhaust upgrades over the years, so I’ll break it down for you here.
Standard Prices for Flowmaster Exhaust Kits
First, let’s look at what you can expect to pay for a complete Flowmaster exhaust system. Now, pricing can vary quite a bit based on the specific components you choose. But in general, here are the average price ranges for Flowmaster’s main product lines:
- Flowmaster American Thunder Series: $600 – $1,000
- Flowmaster Force II System: $800 – $1,200
- Flowmaster Outlaw Series: $1,000 – $1,600
- Flowmaster Delta Force System: $1,200 – $2,000
So as you can see, you’re typically looking at a $600 to $2,000 price range for a full cat-back Flowmaster exhaust system. The American Thunder and Force II are great budget-friendly options. While the Outlaw and Delta Force systems are premium race-inspired setups.
Keep in mind, these are just rough estimates for a complete system. The specific vehicle make and model will impact the price too. But this gives you a general idea of Flowmaster’s pricing structure.
Key Factors That Affect Flowmaster Exhaust Prices
The exact price you’ll pay depends on several key factors:
- Materials Used: The type of metals used in the piping and mufflers impacts cost. Stainless steel is more expensive than aluminized steel or mild steel.
- Sound Level: Aggressive sounding systems with higher noise levels typically demand higher prices.
- Engine Size: Upgrading the exhaust on a larger V8 or diesel motor costs more due to increased materials and fabrication costs.
- Vehicle Make and Model: Exhaust system prices vary for different vehicle makes and models based on design complexity.
- System Type: A basic cat-back system is cheaper than a full turbo-back or header-back setup.
- Coating and Finishes: Optional coatings like ceramic thermal barrier or polished stainless steel finishes add to the price tag.
- Brand Name: The Flowmaster brand commands a premium price over generic exhaust components.
So the more exotic the materials, the louder the sound, and the bigger your engine – the more you can expect to pay. Make sense?
Finding the Best Deals on Flowmaster Exhausts
Now for the good stuff – how to get the lowest prices on Flowmaster exhaust upgrades! Here are some tips:
- Buy Online: Check retailer sites like Jegs, Summit Racing, and AmericanTrucks for the best deals. They usually have lower prices than local shops.
- Join Clubs: Look for Flowmaster club member discounts and loyalty programs for exclusive offers.
- Ask for Sales: Retailers often discount Flowmaster exhausts 10-20% during sales events. Sign up for newsletters and ask about upcoming sales.
- Buy Used Takeoffs: Search eBay or Craigslist for used OEM takeoffs to save big on lightly used parts.
- Wait for Holiday Sales: Keep an eye out for special savings around Black Friday, Christmas, New Year’s, and July 4th.
- Price Match: Bring competitor offers to your local shop and ask them to match the pricing. Most will oblige on big ticket exhausts.
Following these tips can easily save you 10-30% off retail prices for Flowmaster exhaust components.
Cost Range by Vehicle Type
Here’s a quick look at typical Flowmaster exhaust prices by vehicle type:
Muscle Cars
Mustangs, Camaros, Challengers, Chargers, and other classic American muscle can expect to pay:
- Cat-Back: $650 – $1,200
- Full System: $950 – $1,800
With premium kits for V8’s reaching $2,000+
Trucks/SUVs
Full-size pickups, Jeeps, SUVs, and off-road rigs normally run:
- Cat-Back: $700 – $1,300
- Full System: $1,000 – $2,000+
With diesel trucks and SUVs at the high end.
Imports/Compacts
For compact cars, imports, and 4-cyl vehicles plan around:
- Cat-Back: $550 – $950
- Full System: $800 – $1,500
Though it varies based on engine performance level.
Luxury Cars
Expect higher pricing for premium makes like Mercedes, BMW, Porsche, etc:
- Cat-Back: $850 – $1,500
- Full System: $1,250 – $2,500
Due to more complex exhaust layouts and materials on high-end cars.
So those ballpark figures give you an idea of cost differences between vehicle types. When searching for deals, keep your specific ride in mind.
Comparing Flowmaster Price vs Other Brands
How does Flowmaster compare cost-wise to other major exhaust brands on the market? Here’s a quick rundown:
- Magnaflow: Very similarly priced to Flowmaster
- Borla: 15-25% more expensive than Flowmaster
- MBRP: 5-15% cheaper than Flowmaster
- Corsa: 25-50% more expensive than Flowmaster
- Gibson: 5-15% cheaper than Flowmaster
Among the major players, MBRP and Gibson tend to offer the best value. While Borla and Corsa are premium brands that command higher pricing.
But ultimately it depends on the specific system. I always recommend comparing prices on the exact exhaust you want for your ride. Prices can overlap between some models.
Breaking Down the Price – What’s Included
When you buy a full cat-back or axle-back Flowmaster exhaust system, everything you need is included for a complete upgrade, such as:
- Mufflers: Flowmaster is known for their high-performance mufflers with aggressive sound. Their Wave, Delta Flow, and Violator designs are excellent.
- Piping: Mandrel bent stainless steel or aluminized pipes ensure optimal exhaust flow. Kits include all necessary pipes and hardware.
- Tips: Stylish exhaust tips in chrome, black, or silver complete the look. Flowmaster logos are usually engraved.
- Clamps and Hardware: All mounting brackets, gaskets, bolts, and hangers needed for installation are included.
- Tuning: Flowmaster sets their exhaust systems to tuned lengths for optimal performance on specific vehicle applications.
- Sound Dampening: Insulation, baffle Systems, and sound absorption materials control interior resonance.
- MARC Software: Flowmaster exhausts are engineered using Madison Acoustical Research Company (MARC) software for precision sound tuning.
So overall, the price includes a complete performance exhaust system engineered specifically for your ride. The quality materials and design is clearly evident when installed.
Understanding Flowmaster Installation Costs
The exhaust system itself is just one part of the total cost equation. You also have to consider:
Professional Installation
A professional shop will charge $200 – $500 for installation, depending on the vehicle and exhaust system complexity. This helps ensure proper fitment and tuning.
DIY Installation
If you’re handy and have automotive experience, you can save on labor by installing the exhaust yourself. But you need some essential tools:
- Jack and Jack Stands
- Socket Sets
- Pry Bars
- Hacksaw
- Gasket Scraper
Plan a full day for DIY installation. And expect some skinned knuckles and swear words. It’s not easy, but can be rewarding.
Miscellaneous Parts
Small extras like gaskets, nuts, bolts, brackets, etc can add $50 – $150. Have some spares on hand just in case. Don’t let a $5 gasket derail your project.
Custom Fabrication
For specialty installations, custom piping fabrication can cost $500 – $1,500+. This includes running dual exhausts or re-routing components.
Dyno Tuning
To fully optimize performance, dyno tuning runs $150 – $300. Not essential, but recommended to realize the exhaust’s full potential.
Add up all these installation fees on top of the exhaust system price itself. The total cost can easily be $1,000 to $3,000+ depending on the vehicle and complexity.
Available Discounts and Promotions
What kind of discounts, coupons, or promos can you take advantage of to save money on Flowmaster exhausts? Here are some options:
- Check retail sites for any sitewide sales or clearance deals. Sign up for their promo emails.
- Watch for Flowmaster sponsored racing and performance events that offer exclusive discount codes for attendees and fans.
- Join Flowmaster enthusiast forums and groups, where members will sometimes share discount codes and links.
- Flowmaster occasionally offers rebates when you buy and install a qualifying exhaust system from authorized dealers.
- Some vehicle forums arrange group buys or bulk orders from manufacturers and shops to save members 5-15%.
- Large enthusiast gatherings like SEMA and trade shows may have Flowmaster reps offering show specials.
- Retailers can sometimes price match or give small discounts if you ask nicely! Doesn’t hurt to request a little break.
With a bit of research, you can likely uncover some type of promo code or discount for at least 5-10% off retail pricing on Flowmaster exhausts.
Factoring in Shipping and Handling Charges
If ordering your Flowmaster exhaust online, you’ll also need to budget an extra $50 – $250 for shipping costs. Rates vary based on:
- Size and weight of the package
- Shipping speed requested
- Destination address
- Fuel surcharges
There may also be an added $20 – $75 for lift gate delivery if you don’t have a loading dock or forklift to unload heavy exhaust components.
Always get a shipping quote first, and compare rates across retailers. Watch for free shipping promotions to save big. Or find a local retailer and avoid shipping entirely.
Making Sure the Price Includes Warranties
One of the things I love about Flowmaster is that their exhaust systems come backed by solid warranties. This guarantees you get lasting value and ensures the price is justified.
Here are the standard warranties:
- Lifetime Limited Warranty – Covers defects in materials and workmanship. Applies to original purchaser only.
- 5 Year Sound Control Warranty – Warrants against interior resonance and sound control.
- **90 Day Finish Warranty ** – Covers aluminum and stainless steel finish against defects.
Make sure any system you buy includes the manufacturer’s warranties for your protection and peace of mind!
Comparing Flowmaster Muffler vs Full System Pricing
If you’re looking to save some cash, you can upgrade just your mufflers instead of the entire exhaust system. Here’s how Flowmaster muffler prices compare:
- DeltaFlow mufflers – $250 – $600 each
- DeltaForce mufflers – $300 – $700 each
- Super 40 mufflers – $130 – $180 each
- Super 44 mufflers – $135 – $200 each
- S10 mufflers – $100 – $160 each
Going with a muffler-only upgrade like a pair of Super 40’s can save you $500+ easily compared to a full cat-back system. It doesn’t provide the complete performance gain, but still wakes up the sound.
You can always do mufflers first, then upgrade the full exhaust system later when budget allows. It’s an affordable incremental approach.
Buying Used and Refurbished vs New
If you really want to score a bargain, purchasing a used or refurbished Flowmaster exhaust is an option.
Used Takeoffs
Lightly used OEM takeoffs removed from low-mileage vehicles can cost 40-60% less than brand new exhausts. Takeoffs have minimal wear but big savings.
Refurbished/Scratch & Dent
Flowmaster exhausts are sometimes available refurbished or as scratch and dent specials for 15-30% off retail prices. Cosmetic defects don’t affect performance.
Compatibility Concerns
However, you need to carefully match any used exhaust components to your exact vehicle’s specs. Fitment and compatibility are concerns with used parts.
Limited Warranty
Used exhausts also won’t have the full lifetime warranty. At most, a 1 year used parts warranty if you’re lucky.
Overall, going used or refurbished yields big savings, but has some risks compared to buying new. Inspect used parts very closely for fit and condition if going this route.
Reviewing the Cost Effectiveness
At the end of the day, upgrading to a Flowmaster exhaust system is one of the most cost-effective ways to improve your vehicle’s performance and style. Here are a few key benefits that help justify the price:
- Horsepower Gains – 10 to 25 HP increase is common with a full Flowmaster system. The performance payoff is huge for the price.
- Torque Increase – Along with horsepower, you’ll get superior torque for better acceleration – up to 15-20% gains.
- MPG Improvement – By reducing backpressure, Flowmaster exhausts can boost gas mileage, saving you money at the pump.
- Sound Upgrade – That signature Flowmaster rumble completely transforms the driving experience.
- Quality Materials – Stainless and aluminized steel delivers superior longevity compared to stock exhaust parts.
- Engine Protection – Lower exhaust temps and efficient flow reduces strain on your engine.
- Custom Styling – Flowmaster’s exhaust tips and piping really give your car or truck a custom, head-turning look.
Considering the big performance, MPG, and styling impact, Flowmaster exhaust mods deliver huge bang for your buck!
Exploring Financing Options
What if your budget won’t quite allow you to pay for your dream Flowmaster exhaust upgrade all at once? Not to worry – you’ve got financing options!
Shop Payment Plans
Many local exhaust shops offer in-house financing plans to break the total into 3, 6, or even 12 monthly payments with 0% APR.
Credit Cards
You can charge the exhaust on a credit card and pay it down over time. Just beware of high interest rates if you can’t pay it off quickly.
Auto Parts Store Credit
Stores like Summit Racing offer credit cards that give you 6 months interest free financing on purchases over $200.
Personal Loans
Banks and credit unions offer personal installment loans at reasonable rates, which you can use for car parts and repairs.
OEM Leasing Discounts
Some lease programs give discounts on aftermarket parts installed by authorized dealers to customize your car.
Just avoid predatory “buy here/pay here” dealers that inflate prices and financing charges. Always compare rates to find the most affordable payment options for any Flowmaster exhaust upgrade.
How Performance Enhances the Value
It’s true you have to pay more up front for a premium Flowmaster exhaust rather than a cheap generic muffler. But you get a lot more performance and durability for your money.
Here are some of the biggest benefits that help justify the price difference:
Expert Engineering
Flowmaster exhaust systems are engineered for your exact vehicle using sophisticated MARC software for precision sound and efficiency. Cheap exhausts are not vehicle-specific.
Optimized Piping
Mandrel bent piping ensures smooth exhaust flow. Cheap pipes often crush or kink the exhaust stream, reducing performance.
Maximum Horsepower
Proper sizing and smoothing of exhaust airflow allows your engine to make more horsepower and torque. Key for performance enthusiasts.
Signature Sound
Aggressive interior and exterior sound improves the driving experience. Generic mufflers sound like noisy tin cans.
Quality Materials
Aluminized, stainless steel, and thick gauge metals ensure durability and corrosion resistance – much better than thin, generic components prone to rust and cracking.
Million Mile Warranties
Unbeatable lifetime warranties provide peace of mind that your investment is protected – you just don’t get that coverage on cheaper exhausts.
Yes, you pay more up front. But Flowmaster exhausts deliver superior performance, sound, durability, and longevity that lasts. It’s worth the extra investment!
Saving Long-Term with Better Fuel Efficiency
One of the great hidden benefits of a Flowmaster exhaust is improved fuel efficiency. By smoothing and accelerating exhaust flow, you reduce backpressure and pumping losses.
Many drivers report a gain of 1-3 MPG after installing a Flowmaster exhaust system. Over the course of your vehicle ownership, that can translate to significant fuel savings that offset some of the exhaust system cost.
Let’s consider an example:
- You gain 2 MPG after upgrading to a Flowmaster exhaust
- You drive 15,000 miles per year
- Average gas price is $3.50/gallon
- Vehicle originally averaged 20 MPG
With the Flowmaster exhaust, your yearly fuel cost at 22 MPG over 15k miles is:
- $2,386/year
Without the exhaust, yearly cost at 20 MPG is:
- $2,625/year
That’s an annual savings of $239/year on fuel just by upgrading your exhaust!
Over a 10 year vehicle ownership, you would save roughly $2,400 in fuel costs. Not bad! This definitely helps offset the initial expense of the new exhaust.
Plus there are the performance and durability benefits. When you add it all up, a Flowmaster upgrade is a smart investment that can save you money in the long run.
Finding Exhaust Reviews and Comparison Shopping
The final key to getting the most bang for your buck is to do your homework and read reviews before buying. Here are some tips:
Research Sound Clips
Listen to YouTube clips to compare the sound of different Flowmaster models to find your ideal exhaust note.
Read Customer Reviews
Check sites like Jegs, Summit Racing, and AmericanTrucks to see real customer feedback on ease of install, sound, fitment, and quality for specific exhausts.
Shop Multiple Retailers
Get quotes from several retailers online for the total price. Include shipping in cost comparisons.
Compare Brands
Cross-shop Flowmaster with Magnaflow, MBRP, Borla, and other brands to find the right balance of sound, performance, and value.
Consult Forums
Ask other owners on forums specific questions before you buy to tap into their hands-on experience.
Check Manufacturer Sites
Go straight to manufacturer sites for technical details like pipe diameter, sound levels, exact fitment, and product features.
By doing your homework before purchase, you can zero in on the perfect Flowmaster exhaust system for your vehicle at the best possible price. Then you can ride off into the sunset with satisfaction!
Wrapping Up on Flowmaster Prices and Value
As you can see, Flowmaster exhausts command premium pricing due to their top-quality performance, materials, sound, and engineering. But there are ways to find great deals through sales, coupons, buying used takeoffs, and more.
You can expect to invest $600 – $2,000 for a complete cat-back or axle-back Flowmaster exhaust system. More for special models and diesel trucks.
While not cheap, upgrading to a Flowmaster exhaust pays off through increased horsepower, torque, fuel economy, and improved sound. Plus you get excellent fitment and durability thanks to vehicle-specific engineering.
By following my tips in this guide, you can score the legendary Flowmaster rumble you want while keeping some extra rev in your wallet. Just shop smart, explore all discounts, and review sound clips and customer feedback before you buy.
Before long, you’ll be out tackling twisty back roads and listening to that sweet Flowmaster growl. Your ride will never be the same!
