Your vehicle’s exhaust system is a critical component that helps reduce harmful emissions and provides a unique opportunity to add a touch of style to your ride.
The most noticeable part of a car’s exhaust system is the tip or tips, which are placed at the end of the tailpipe and serve as a final exit point for the exhaust gases.
But, is that all exhaust tips do?
We’ll explore the purpose of exhaust tips, the different types available, and the factors to consider when choosing the right one for your ride.
The Purpose Of Exhaust Tips
Exhaust tips serve two primary purposes: to improve the appearance of your vehicle and to protect the environment.
Main Purpose Of Exhaust Tips
The primary function of an exhaust tip is to enhance the look of your car by providing a custom touch.
Yes, you read that right. An exhaust tip’s main function is style.
They come in various styles and finishes, including chrome, stainless steel, and black powder-coated, which means you can choose one that fits the style of your car and personal preference.
Exhaust tips are so important in distinguishing a vehicle’s look that manufacturers now use them as a defining feature of different trim levels and option packages.
Secondary Purpose Of Exhaust Tips
The second purpose of an exhaust tip is to direct the fumes that your vehicle produces in a direction that doesn’t interfere with passengers.
In other words, it directs the exhaust gasses away from your vehicle in a manner that you aren’t breathing them in every time you’re in your car.
The EPA has set strict regulations for vehicles’ emissions, and exhaust tips play a critical role in ensuring that these regulations are met.
They help to reduce pollutants such as carbon monoxide, hydrocarbons, and nitrogen oxides that enter your vehicle when the engine is running.
Different Types Of Exhaust Tips
Now the fun stuff. Style.
Exhaust tips are a very customizable feature on cars, so much so that there are endless shapes and sizes to satisfy almost anyone (Sorry EV Folks).
Of the several types of exhaust tips available, each has a unique design and benefits. The most common types are:
Round: This is a simple and straightforward design that is available in a variety of finishes. It’s the most affordable option, and it provides a sleek look that is suitable for most vehicles.
Rolled Edge: The rolled edge design is similar to the round angle cut, but it has a slightly more pronounced curve that gives it a more aggressive look.
Slant Cut/Slash Cut: This design is angled at a 45-degree angle, which provides a stylish and sporty look. It’s a popular choice for high-performance vehicles.
Dual Wall: Dual wall tips have a double layer that provides insulation, which helps to reduce heat and noise. This type of tip is often used on diesel vehicles.
Factors to Consider When Choosing an Exhaust Tip
When selecting an exhaust tip for your vehicle, there are several factors to consider:
Size: Exhaust tips come in different sizes, and it’s essential to choose one that fits the size of your tailpipe. If the tip is too small, it will look out of place, and if it’s too large, it may not fit properly.
Material: As mentioned earlier, exhaust tips are available in various materials, including chrome, stainless steel, and black powder-coated. Consider the durability and appearance of each material before making a decision.
Style: Choose a style that complements the look of your vehicle and fits your personal taste.
Performance: If you’re looking to improve the performance of your vehicle, consider a high-flow tip usually larger in diameter that is designed to increase the flow of exhaust gases.
Do Exhaust Tips Have An Impact On Your Vehicle’s Sound?
Exhaust tips can also have an impact on the sound of your vehicle’s exhaust system.
Some tips, such as straight-cut or angle-cut tips, can amplify the sound of the exhaust, giving it a deeper and more aggressive tone.
On the other hand, dual-wall tips and others with a smaller diameter can muffle the sound of the exhaust, making it quieter.
If you’re looking to enhance the sound of your vehicle’s exhaust, it’s important to choose a tip that is designed to resonate with the flow of exhaust gases.
Do Exhaust Tips Affect Vehicle Performance?
Changing the exhaust tip may affect the performance of your vehicle depending on which tip is installed.
An engine is essentially an air pump, sucking air in combining it with fuel, and exhausting out to create power.
If you can find a way to get more air to flow through the system, you can produce more power. That’s why exhaust upgrades are so popular, besides the awesome sounds.
High-flow tips are often designed with a larger diameter and a more straightforward design, which can help to increase the volume of the exhaust.
In some cases, a larger or more open tip can improve the flow of exhaust gases, which can result in improved horsepower and torque.
It’s essential to choose a tip that is compatible with your vehicle’s make and model, as well as any emissions regulations in your area.
Generally, exhaust tips are a universal fit so installation is a breeze. You can buy a bolt-on version or a weldable one.
Wrapping Things Up
Exhaust tips play a crucial role in enhancing the appearance of your vehicle and directing harmful emissions away from passengers.
With the variety of styles, materials, and finishes available, your personal taste and the performance requirements of your vehicle play the deciding role in which exhaust tip is best.
At least now you can make a decision knowing exactly what exhaust tips do.
Vroom Vroom!