Effective Methods to Make Your Car Roar

PDF download Download Article
How to increase the volume of your ride legally
PDF download Download Article

Want everyone to hear you from a mile away? If so, you’ve reached the right place! Whether you want to amplify your car’s natural noise or make it sound like a premium sports car, we’re going over all the modifications to make your vehicle rumble. While loud cars are impressive, be sure to review your local laws and be mindful of your neighbors. If you’re still determined to amplify your ride, keep reading to create the car of your dreams.

Things You Should Know

  • Drill small holes in your exhaust pipes to make your car louder–it’s a legal way to modify your exhaust system, and it's much safer than removing your muffler.
  • Clean, degrease, and polish your exhaust pipes to amplify the sound of your exhaust system.
  • Install a dual exhaust cat-back system to boost the horsepower of your car and create an aggressive roar.
1

Drill holes in your exhaust pipes.

PDF download Download Article
  1. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/3\/36\/Make-Car-Louder-Step-1.jpg\/v4-460px-Make-Car-Louder-Step-1.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/3\/36\/Make-Car-Louder-Step-1.jpg\/v4-728px-Make-Car-Louder-Step-1.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Use a 0.38 inch (0.95 cm) cobalt-tipped drill bit to pierce 6-8 small holes on the pipe between the muffler and catalytic convertor. These holes let sound waves exit before reaching the muffler, giving your car a more aggressive sound. [1]
    • Be sure to drill these holes after your catalytic convertor so the exhaust fumes convert into non-toxic ones. Otherwise, harmful gasses may enter your cabin.
    • If you’re not happy with the sound, you can always drill additional holes or try a larger drill bit.
    2. Advertisement
2

Clean your exhaust pipes.

PDF download Download Article
  1. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/c\/c6\/Make-Car-Louder-Step-2.jpg\/v4-460px-Make-Car-Louder-Step-2.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/c\/c6\/Make-Car-Louder-Step-2.jpg\/v4-728px-Make-Car-Louder-Step-2.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    When debris builds up in your exhaust pipes, it decreases engine performance and sound. Remove the grime in your pipes by cleaning them with soap and water, and then apply degreaser all over the exhaust. Use steel wool to scrub the product off, and finish by applying metal polish on the exhaust tips. [2]
    • Alternatively, use a carbon cleaning service to increase the sound of your vehicle. Depending on your vehicle and engine type, professional treatment ranges from $125-325. [3]
3

Add an exhaust tip.

PDF download Download Article
  1. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/6\/64\/Make-Car-Louder-Step-3.jpg\/v4-460px-Make-Car-Louder-Step-3.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/6\/64\/Make-Car-Louder-Step-3.jpg\/v4-728px-Make-Car-Louder-Step-3.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Attach an exhaust tip to your tailpipe to amplify your engine's sound. Whether you want a smooth purr or aggressive roar, these small but mighty components allow you to customize and increase the volume of your vehicle. Choose a larger tip for a deep, hearty sound, or opt for a smaller tip for more rasp. [4]
    • Exhaust tips range between $25-150, depending on the quality of the material. [5]
    • Many car enthusiasts prefer double-walled exhaust tips over single-walled ones because they produce a fuller sound. [6]
    2. Advertisement
4

Get a new muffler.

PDF download Download Article
  1. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/7\/74\/Make-Car-Louder-Step-4.jpg\/v4-460px-Make-Car-Louder-Step-4.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/7\/74\/Make-Car-Louder-Step-4.jpg\/v4-728px-Make-Car-Louder-Step-4.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Select a straight-through muffler for maximum sound. This type of muffler allows exhaust gasses and sound waves to exit easily, boosting the volume and efficiency of your vehicle. To achieve the sound you want, experiment with muffler placement: most mufflers are located near the vehicle’s rear end, but move it closer to the engine (along the tailpipe) for an even louder roar. [7]
    • Avoid s-type mufflers that have lots of baffles–they tend to absorb sound.
    • The average cost to replace a muffler ranges from $160-240. [8]
5

Delete your resonator.

PDF download Download Article
  1. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/3\/3d\/Make-Car-Louder-Step-5.jpg\/v4-460px-Make-Car-Louder-Step-5.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/3\/3d\/Make-Car-Louder-Step-5.jpg\/v4-728px-Make-Car-Louder-Step-5.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Like a muffler, the resonator is a hollow pipe that minimizes the noise of your engine. It’s directly attached to the exhaust system, and it’s often filled with a cotton-like material to better absorb sound. Since the resonator is attached before the muffler, removing the resonator makes the muffler less effective—the latter has to reduce more of the engine’s raw sound. [9]
    • A resonator delete also changes your vehicle’s signature sound to a deep, smooth roar.
    • The total cost of a professional resonator delete costs between $100-220, depending on your car’s make and model. [10]
    2. Advertisement
6

Make your exhaust pipes bigger.

PDF download Download Article
  1. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/9\/9d\/Make-Car-Louder-Step-6.jpg\/v4-460px-Make-Car-Louder-Step-6.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/9\/9d\/Make-Car-Louder-Step-6.jpg\/v4-728px-Make-Car-Louder-Step-6.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Increase your exhaust pipes by 0.5 inch (1.27 cm) for a major roar. The exhaust system includes all the components that are responsible for the majority of your vehicle’s sound–the exhaust pipes, muffler, and resonator. Switch to bigger pipes to increase the flow of gas in your vehicle and allow more sound to easily exit your vehicle. [11]
    • If your pipe diameter is too big, it creates excessive back pressure, so only increase your pipes by 0.5 inch (1.27 cm) to 1 inch (2.54 cm).
    • Depending on your vehicle’s make and model, it costs about $835-860 to replace your exhaust pipes–including parts and labor. [12]
7

Convert to a straight-pipe exhaust system.

PDF download Download Article
  1. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/5\/55\/Make-Car-Louder-Step-7.jpg\/v4-460px-Make-Car-Louder-Step-7.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/5\/55\/Make-Car-Louder-Step-7.jpg\/v4-728px-Make-Car-Louder-Step-7.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Replace your noise-suppressing exhaust with a loud straight-pipe . This modification removes the catalytic convertor, resonator, and muffler, replacing it with a straight, single tube. The design of the tube allows sound to travel more easily, with some systems reaching over 120 decibels. [13]
    • Due to noise and emission regulations, driving without a catalytic convertor is illegal in most states. Make sure to check your local laws to ensure you don’t get fined. [14]
    • Depending on your car and mechanic, expect to pay an average of $1500 for a professional straight-pipe set-up. For an at-home replacement, it generally costs between $75-200.
    2. Advertisement
8

Switch to a cat-back exhaust.

PDF download Download Article
  1. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/6\/68\/Make-Car-Louder-Step-8.jpg\/v4-460px-Make-Car-Louder-Step-8.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/6\/68\/Make-Car-Louder-Step-8.jpg\/v4-728px-Make-Car-Louder-Step-8.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Choose a dual exhaust cat-back system to increase torque and volume. This modification reduces pressure on your engine, improving airflow and sound. Dual exhausts produce the most aggressive noise, but if you’re on a budget, choose a single exhaust cat-back system –it’s light, affordable, but still makes your car roar. [15]
9

Install a turbocharger.

PDF download Download Article
  1. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/c\/c1\/Make-Car-Louder-Step-9.jpg\/v4-460px-Make-Car-Louder-Step-9.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/c\/c1\/Make-Car-Louder-Step-9.jpg\/v4-728px-Make-Car-Louder-Step-9.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Amplify combustion sounds from your engine with a turbocharger . Since this device pushes more air into the engine’s cylinder (combustion chamber), it improves your vehicle’s overall performance and power. For an even louder sound, add a cold-air intake to your turbo; since cold air has more oxygen than warm air, cold-air intakes produce larger combustion in your engine. [17]
    • Alternatively, add a turbo whistle to your exhaust pipe for a similar effect to a turbocharger.
    • Depending on the make and model of your vehicle, turbochargers range from $500-5000. [18]
    • Cold-air intakes usually cost between $30-100.
    2. Advertisement
10

Run your car with open headers.

PDF download Download Article
  1. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/9\/9c\/Make-Car-Louder-Step-10.jpg\/v4-460px-Make-Car-Louder-Step-10.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/9\/9c\/Make-Car-Louder-Step-10.jpg\/v4-728px-Make-Car-Louder-Step-10.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    This method is when your vehicle doesn't have a muffler, exhaust pipe, or catalytic convertor. Since the exhaust gasses exit more easily, open headers dramatically increase the horsepower and sound of your ride. [19]
    • If you drive with open headers and have a larger engine (like a V6 or V8), your car may even release flames when revving to higher RPMs.
    • To correctly run open headers, take your car to the shop for tuning. Prices typically range from $200-500, depending on whether you want a simple or complete tuning.
    • Due to their loud noise and heavy emissions, open headers aren't legal in most states. Be sure to check your local laws to ensure you don’t get fined. [20]
11

Upgrade your engine.

PDF download Download Article
  1. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/c\/c7\/Make-Car-Louder-Step-11.jpg\/v4-460px-Make-Car-Louder-Step-11.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/c\/c7\/Make-Car-Louder-Step-11.jpg\/v4-728px-Make-Car-Louder-Step-11.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    The more cylinders your engine has, the more power and noise is produced. Unlike inline engines, V engines pack more cylinders into a small space, so they’re often featured in high-performance sports cars. [21]
    • If you prefer a smoother, even exhaust sound, choose an in-line engine instead. Inline-4s are the most common configuration in modern cars, so upgrade to an inline-6 for a bump in noise level.
    • Replacing your engine is an expensive, time-consuming process, so most people don’t resort to this method.
    • A new V8 engine can set you back about $7000 (excluding labor costs), so consider your vehicle’s age: if you’re driving an older car, purchasing a new vehicle might be a smarter decision. [22]
    2. Advertisement
12

Wire in engine-enhancing speakers.

PDF download Download Article
  1. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/9\/92\/Make-Car-Louder-Step-12.jpg\/v4-460px-Make-Car-Louder-Step-12.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/9\/92\/Make-Car-Louder-Step-12.jpg\/v4-728px-Make-Car-Louder-Step-12.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    While uncommon, some specialty shops can attach ceramic microphones directly to the exhaust pipes, increasing the volume of your vehicle. Sometimes, they even add music to imitate these noises for extra roar. [23]
    • Some people can tell the difference between these fake sounds and authentic ones, so avoid this method if you prioritize sound quality and authenticity.

Expert Q&A

Search
Add New Question
  • Question
    Are there any other methods to do this?
    Nick Psaros
    Automotive Expert
    Nick Psaros is an Automotive Expert working to encourage people to become car enthusiasts and share useful automotive content with people around the world. He has spent the past six years building an online following and community dedicated to automotive excellence. He has a follower base of over 10,000 YouTube subscribers and has garnered over 1 million views on his channel.
    Nick Psaros
    Automotive Expert
    Expert Answer
    Another method is a slip-on active exhaust option. These are essentially rear sections of the muffler that can be easily replaced, and this modification is entirely legal. These aftermarket systems often include what is referred to as an active exhaust feature, incorporating a flap inside the muffler. This flap is controlled either by a vacuum line or a small electric solenoid linked to and activated by a button. The active exhaust system allows for dynamic sound management: keeping the car quiet with the flap closed, limiting exhaust flow, and enhancing the sound by opening the flap when a more pronounced exhaust note is desired.
    Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.
    Thank you for your feedback.
    If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow
    Yes No
    Not Helpful 0 Helpful 1
Ask a Question
200 characters left
Include your email address to get a message when this question is answered.
Submit
      Advertisement

      Tips

      Submit a Tip
      All tip submissions are carefully reviewed before being published
      Submit
      Thanks for submitting a tip for review!

      Warnings

      • Removing a muffler is a common way to make your car louder, but it’s illegal in all 50 states. [24] This can also void your warranty if removal damages other parts of your car’s emissions system. [25]
        Thanks
      • Every state has different laws regarding exhaust modifications, so be sure to check your local laws for possible restrictions—unlawful modifications can result in a fine of $25-500. [26]
        Thanks
      • Modifying your vehicle can be dangerous, so always take the proper safety precautions: wear safety glasses and protective gloves when working, and make sure the vehicle is fully stopped and the brakes are engaged. [27]
        Thanks


      Advertisement

      You Might Also Like

      How to
      Install a Rear View Camera
      How to Open a Gas Tank
      How to Roll Down the Windows With Your Key Fob
      How to
      Get a Tire Off a Rim
      How to
      Live in Your Car
      Why Is Your Car Making Noises When You Start It?
      11 Potential Reasons Your Car is Making Noise When Accelerating
      How to
      Identify a Ford Motor
      Car Not Accelerating but RPMs Up? Identify and Fix the Problem
      How to
      Find the Paint Color Code on Ford Vehicles
      How to Replace the Batteries in a Mercedes Key Fob
      How to Switch Your Jeep From 2-Wheel Drive to 4-Wheel Drive
      How to Adjust VW Idle Speed with a 34 PICT3 Carburetor
      How to Diagnose and Fix a Bad Fuel Pump
      Advertisement

      Expert Interview

      Thanks for reading our article! If you’d like to learn more about car maintenance and repair, check out our in-depth interview with Nick Psaros .

      References

      1. ↑ https://youtu.be/y5gdUcHVSJI?t=120
      2. ↑ https://ww2.motorists.org/blog/how-to-clean-your-exhaust-system-inside-and-out/
      3. ↑ https://www.hhocarboncleansystems.com/what-is-carbon-cleaning-is-it-worth-it
      4. ↑ https://youtu.be/eytayrB2j5o?t=426
      5. ↑ https://www.exhaustvideos.com/faq/how-much-exhaust-system-cost
      6. ↑ https://speedwaymedia.com/2022/08/27/do-exhaust-tips-change-sound-2022-all-you-need-to-know
      7. ↑ https://www.motortrend.com/how-to/ctrp-0009-muffler-education
      8. ↑ https://axleadvisor.com/muffler-repair-cost/#Average
      9. ↑ https://youtu.be/TaXa0t4-lTQ?t=36
      1. ↑ https://rxmechanic.com/resonator-delete
      2. ↑ https://www.lukey.com.au/pages/exhaust-size
      3. ↑ https://www.pipsisland.com/how-much-to-fix-exhaust-pipe
      4. ↑ https://www.pipsisland.com/what-is-a-straight-pipe-exhaust
      5. ↑ https://www.semasan.com/resources/exhaust-noise-laws-state
      6. ↑ https://skipsgaragerepair.com/what-is-a-cat-back-exhaust-system
      7. ↑ https://costhack.com/cat-back-exhaust-cost
      8. ↑ https://youtu.be/aieoIUjRS9c?t=59
      9. ↑ https://turboturbos.com/blogs/news/the-cost-of-turbocharging-a-car
      10. ↑ https://completecar.ca/maintenance/open-headers
      11. ↑ https://www.hotcars.com/car-mods-that-are-illegal-but-drivers-get-away-with
      12. ↑ https://www.uti.edu/blog/automotive/engine-types
      13. ↑ https://costhack.com/how-much-does-a-v8-engine-cost
      14. ↑ https://www.motortrend.com/news/formula-1-developing-exhaust-mics-make-cars-sound-louder
      15. ↑ https://www.semasan.com/resources/exhaust-noise-laws-state
      16. ↑ https://www.themechanicdoctor.com/does-a-muffler-delete-void-warranty-the-true-facts
      17. ↑ https://www.drivinglaws.org/resources/tickets-for-noisy-car-mods-muffler-deletes-loud-exhaust-and-loud-music.html
      18. ↑ https://porterchester.edu/news-events/important-auto-shop-safety-tips

      About This Article

      Thanks to all authors for creating a page that has been read 95,270 times.
      If you buy through links on our site, we may earn a commission .

      Did this article help you?

      Advertisement