Purple BMW M3 on the Abidworks forecourt in Grays

Exhaust systems and upgrades in Grays

Exhaust upgrades, repairs and replacements, with honest advice on sound, fit and what suits your car.

What it is

An exhaust system carries gases away from the engine, keeps noise down and, on modern cars, includes emissions equipment. Performance upgrades typically replace the sections after the emissions equipment, such as cat-back systems and back boxes, to change the sound and reduce restriction.

Exhausts also simply wear out. Rust, broken hangers and blowing joints are common, especially on cars that do lots of short trips where moisture builds up inside the system.

Getting the sound right matters. A system that sounds good on a short drive can drone on the motorway, so it is worth talking through how you use the car before choosing one.

When to book it

  • You want a better sound or a sportier look from the rear
  • You are planning a remap and want matching hardware
  • Rattles, blowing or a louder exhaust than normal
  • Visible rust, holes or a section hanging low

How we handle it

Request a quote with your reg and what you are after, whether that is an upgrade or fixing a problem. Photos help, including of any parts you already have. Abid looks at the car or details to advise and price it.

You get a clear price before work starts. Once you approve it, the car is booked in and you are kept updated throughout.

What to expect

  1. Request a quote with your reg and what you want
  2. Advice on options to suit your car and your driving
  3. A clear price agreed upfront, then booked in
  4. Collect and get walked through the work

Questions answered

Does an exhaust upgrade add power?

On its own, often only a little. On turbo cars, a less restrictive exhaust works best alongside a matching remap, which is why it is commonly part of a Stage 2 setup.

Are loud exhausts legal?

Exhausts must not be excessively noisy, and the car must still meet the emissions and noise rules that apply to it. It is worth discussing sound levels when choosing a system.

Do I need to tell my insurer about a new exhaust?

Most insurers class an aftermarket exhaust as a modification, so yes, let them know.

See every service

Get a clear price first.

Tell us about the car and the job, add a few photos, and we send a clear price before anything starts.