Many car enthusiasts buy aftermarket performance exhaust systems and install them on their cars for several reasons, such as enabling the vehicle to emit a more aggressive sound as one drives. Several steps need to be followed when installing those bolt-on exhausts. This article discusses some helpful tips that will enable you to have a hassle-free installation process.

Mind the Temperature

Never start removing the current exhaust system in order to replace it with a performance exhaust when the vehicle is still hot after you have driven it. Let the vehicle cool down for a few hours before you begin your DIY project to install the new performance exhaust system. This precaution will save you from being injured by the metal components that are still hot during a hastily executed installation process.

Buy a Penetrating Fluid

Ask a mechanic or auto supplies shop attendant for a penetrating fluid that you can use during the installation process. That fluid will help to dislodge any corrosion or dirt that may have made the bolts anchoring the current exhaust system difficult to open. Spray on that penetrating fluid and let it do its work for the recommended duration before you attempt to remove the bolts securing the old exhaust system. You won't have to use a lot of effort once the penetrating fluid has done its work.

Expect Smoke and Fumes

Many inexperienced car owners may panic when they see plumes of unusual smoke or fumes coming from the newly installed performance exhaust system. Such people may uninstall the performance exhaust system under the mistaken belief that they made a mistake during the installation process. Such panic may not be necessary because new exhausts usually have an oil-based coating that protects the system before it is installed on a vehicle. The emissions of your car will normalize once the exhaust heats to its optimum operating temperature and burns off those coatings. You should only be concerned if the smoke or fumes persist for several days.

Listen Keenly

Pay close attention for any strange sounds as you test-drive your vehicle after installing the performance exhaust system. Be wary of any ticking or flapping sounds because such sounds may be an indicator that the system you installed has a leakage somewhere. It is also good to observe underneath your car after a few days in order to confirm that the new performance exhaust is firmly fitted at all anchorage points.

Get help from a professional if you are not sure about the different performance exhaust attributes, such as pipe diameter and number of exits, which are suitable for your car.