Most standard exhaust systems steer exhaust flow away from the engine and cabin, keeping you and your passengers safe from any harmful fumes. They’re also specifically designed to reduce emissions and engine noise to meet environmental regulations. However, there’s a type of exhaust system that allows you to adjust the engine noise to your liking, so you can make it louder than usual. This is called the active exhaust system.
An active valve exhaust system has electronic flapper valves that allow the driver to adjust the loudness of their exhaust system according to their preference. When the valves open and close, they control how many unmuffled exhaust notes pass through the exhaust and create noise.
Some vehicles have dual-mode exhaust systems, while others feature several modes. For example, several Ford Mustang models come with Quiet, Normal, Sport, and Track modes. The Quiet setting is typically used when driving through residential areas, so you don’t disturb your neighbors. The louder modes are best used when you’re driving on highways and open roads.
Unlike traditional exhaust systems, an active exhaust system lets you change the vehicle’s noise levels by adjusting the valves. The exhaust system valves are electronically controlled by actuators that you can activate using a button in the cabin.
When set to an aggressive driving mode, the exhaust system opens all the valves, causing the engine and exhaust to sound louder. Open valves help reduce any built-up pressure from various exhaust system components, which also improves engine performance.
On the other hand, closed valves result in less noise. You won’t get as much of a performance boost with quiet modes, but you do get improved fuel efficiency.
Here are some of the differences between standard and active exhaust systems:
Active exhaust systems are specifically designed to let you adjust the flow of exhaust gases by controlling the valves with the press of a button. On the other hand, a standard exhaust system comes with fixed components. While you can’t adjust its valves, it still provides a steady and consistent exhaust flow that meets emission laws.
An active exhaust system provides a dynamic driving experience, thanks to the different sound profiles you can choose from. In contrast, a standard exhaust system promises a consistent drive with the same exhaust notes and sound levels each time.
By adjusting the valves in an active exhaust system, you’re also able to adjust exhaust flow. This directly affects engine performance and fuel efficiency, making it easier for you to adapt to different driving conditions.
Meanwhile, standard exhaust systems offer fixed engine performance and fuel efficiency. Unless you upgrade other parts of your vehicle, you’re stuck with the same performance regardless of driving conditions.
Regardless of its type, exhaust systems play a key role in reducing the toxic emissions of a vehicle. Internal combustion engines (ICE) burn through fuel and produce exhaust gases that can harm the environment. Exhaust systems allow vehicles to meet state laws regarding emission levels without sacrificing engine performance.
Laws can vary depending on where you live, but some states allow exhaust modifications such as active exhaust systems as long as they meet specific conditions. For example, in California, most exhaust modifications are legal if the noise emitted falls under 95 decibels. Of course, this is under the assumption that any upgrades don’t break other smog laws.
Keep in mind that laws can vary between states, so it’s best to double-check your own state laws before making any modifications to your vehicle’s current exhaust system.
Not all vehicles come with an active exhaust. Active exhaust systems are typically offered as an upgrade for specific models, such as the Ford Mustang. If you aren’t sure if your vehicle comes with an active exhaust, there are a few ways you can check.
One of the easiest ways to do so is to access the options menu on your infotainment system and look for the “Exhaust Mode” setting, which your car should have if it has an active exhaust. You can also inspect the tip of your mufflers for the butterfly valve, or you can check the actuator motor on the exhaust tip.
Some vehicles will also have a window sticker indicating that they’re equipped with an active exhaust system.
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