Do you want to improve your HiLux' performance for the next off-road trip without breaking your bank? Or maybe you're just a gearhead who wants to get the most power and a more aggressive sound out of their engine, cruise down the highway, turning heads wherever you go. Let's face it, whatever the reason, owning and driving a high-performance vehicle can get your heart pumping adrenaline. The best way to make your HiLux a monster on and off the road is by installing an aftermarket Toyota HiLux exhaust. But before you buy an aftermarket system, there are a few different things you need to consider to make sure you get the best exhaust that will improve your HiLux' power, fuel efficiency and sound.
A lot of people may wonder: "Why should I upgrade my vehicle's exhaust system?". And the answer to that question is quite simple - stock exhaust systems aren't made with performance, sound and mileage in mind. Instead, they're made to be affordable in order to reduce the overall price of the vehicle to make it more competitive on the market. As a result, one of the first things many 4x4 enthusiasts upgrade on their vehicles is precisely the exhaust system. You'll get a noticeable performance upgrade for your HiLux with an aftermarket Toyota HiLux exhaust, while also improving fuel economy and the way your HiLux sounds. Besides these benefits, here's what else you should know about 4x4 exhaust systems:
Snorkels Make a Difference
Installing a snorkel on your HiLux will force stale air out of the engine, while providing it with more cool, fresh air. This is important as stale air can lead to build-up of fuel and oil residue, reducing your engine's fuel efficiency. That being said, if you're venturing off the beaten trail, make sure you get a wide diameter snorkel on top of an aftermarket exhaust system to make sure your engine gets more airflow.
More Noise Doesn't Mean More Performance
A loud exhaust doesn't automatically mean more power. In fact, the complete opposite may happen - it can be bad for your HiLux. While you're going to get a different exhaust note out of every aftermarket Toyota HiLux exhaust system, make sure the one you choose features a high-flow muffler and high-flow catalytic converter. These two parts can provide superior performance and fuel efficiency.
Size Matters
Aftermarket exhaust systems that feature larger diameter pipes and parts prevent the build up of back pressure, and they improve the efficiency at which the gases come and go from the system. Reducing back pressure also reduces the exhaust gas temperature and turbo lag in turbo engines, which can be very beneficial if you're towing heavy loads up on steep inclines. However, the exhaust system shouldn't be too large for your HiLux, as that can result in performance loss. Consult an experienced mechanic or your local dealership to see what the largest you can go on your HiLux is.
Should You DIY?
Most aftermarket exhaust kits come with all the parts you need to install the system yourself .You'll have to use the factory mounts of the stock exhaust, so it should be relatively easy. You should follow the instructions that come with the aftermarket exhaust kit, or try the internet for some tips and tricks. If you don't feel confident doing it yourself, you can always have a professional do it for you.
How Much Do Aftermarket Exhausts Cost?
Most new, quality aftermarket exhaust systems can cost anywhere between $500 and $2000, depending on what they're made from and how many parts of the exhaust they replace. For instance, stainless steel exhaust systems are typically more expensive than aluminium exhaust systems, simply because stainless steel is more expensive as a raw material. However, when purchasing a stainless steel exhaust system, you can rest assured you're buying a product that's going to last for many years, is corrosion-resistant, handles heat extremely well and is very tough overall. Aluminium, while not as durable and strong as stainless steel, is lightweight, meaning you can get better mileage out of your HiLux.
Furthermore, there are three popular types of aftermarket exhaust kits - axle-back, header-back and cat-back. Header-back systems replace the entire stock system, meaning they're the most expensive, but also provide the most performance benefits and fuel efficiency improvements. Cat-back exhaust systems replace all the parts from the catalytic-converter to the exhaust tip, and you get moderate performance and fuel efficiency improvements, but they cost less than header-back exhausts. Lastly, axle-back exhaust systems don't replace any meaningful parts, so they only change how your Hilux sounds and looks. These systems are the most affordable and easiest to install by yourself.
Are Loud Exhaust Systems Illegal in Australia?
Some people remove the muffler so that their vehicle sounds louder. In most cases, especially around Australia, this is illegal, simply because it can lead to exhaust leaks. These leaks can be dangerous, and they can hurt your fuel economy. Furthermore, driving a vehicle without a muffler is illegal, meaning that open pipes are also illegal.
