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Best Exhaust System for Jeep Wrangler – Buyer’s Guide

Best Exhaust System for Jeep

One of the best things about Jeeps – they come well-equipped. That’s especially true for the legendary Wrangler. It’s got a mighty engine under the hood, a market-leading suspension system, and a set of pro-grade tires. Still, there are some areas that you can improve in. For example, the factory exhaust system is average at best. For driving on highways and busy city streets, it’s alright.

However, off the road, when pushed to the limit, it struggles at dealing with the fumes. That, in turn, puts unnecessary pressure on the engine, making it overheat. So, if you’ve got some money saved up, I strongly recommend investing in the Best Exhaust System for Jeep Wrangler. And I’ve got just the right list! After weeks of meticulous research, I chose the following exhausts as my top picks.

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Best Exhaust System for Jeep Wrangler
Best Exhaust System for Jeep Wrangler
Best Exhaust System for Jeep Wrangler

best exhaust for jeepNevertheless, I may disappoint you by saying that the original Jeep Wrangler exhaust system leaves much to be desired. If you are new to the vehicle universe, it may seem that there is nothing important that the exhaust system does. That is where you are mistaken. The fact is that a good exhaust system improves not only your engine’s operation but also the horsepower as well as torque.

Taking all that into consideration, I decided to discuss the notion in detail. It is clear that the number of exhaust systems on the market turns out to be quite overwhelming. However, if you wonder what is the best exhaust system for a jeep wrangler – you have come to the right place. I’m going to guide you in the right direction so that you are able to choose the best suitable exhaust system according to your needs and preferences!

Best Jeep JK Exhaust System (Updated October, 2024)

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Editor’s Choice

MagnaFlow 15160 Stainless Steel Performance Exhaust System Kit, Large

1. MagnaFlow 15160

  • Type: Axle-Back System
  • Best Features:
    – Long-lasting
    – Great-looking
    – Pleasant-sounding
  • Fits Models:2007-2018 Jeep Wrangler JK/JKU 2/4 Doors
  • Material: 304 Stainless Steel
  • Tube Size: 2.5 inch
  • Tip Diameter: 4 inch
  • Tip Length: 6 inch
  • Weight: 29 lbs

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aFe Power 49-48055 Mach Force-Xp Cat-Back Exhaust System

2. aFe Power 49-48055

  • Type: Cat-Back System
  • Best Features:
    – Hi-Tuck Design
    – Simple Installation
    – Fair price
  • Fits Models:2007-2018 Jeep Wrangler JK 2 Doors
  • Material: 409 Stainless Steel
  • Tube Size: 2-1/2 inches
  • Weight: 27 lbs

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Dynomax 39510 Axle-Back System

3. Dynomax 39510

  • Type: Axle-Back System
  • Best Features:
    – Low-priced
    – Exclusively designed
    – Non-resonating
  • Fits Models:2007-2018 Jeep Wrangler JK/JKU 2/4 Doors
  • Material: 304 Stainless Steel
  • Tube Size: 2.5 inch
  • Weight: 28.3 lbs

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aFe (49-08046) Scorpion Aluminized Hi-Tuck Axle-Back Exhaust System for Jeep Wrangler JK V6-3.8/3.6L Engine

4. aFe Scorpion 49-08046

  • Type: Axle-Back System
  • Best Features:
    – USA product
    – Hi-tuck design
    – Anti-corrosion coating
  • Fits Models:2007-2018 Jeep Wrangler JK 2 Doors
  • Material: 304 Stainless Steel
  • Tube Size: 2.5 inch
  • Weight: 23 lbs

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Flowmaster 817674 American Thunder 409S Single Rear Exit Cat-Back System with Moderate Sound

5. Flowmaster 817674

  • Type: Cat-Back System
  • Best Features:
    – Classy design
    – Improved power capacity
    – High clearance
  • Fits Models:2007-2018 Jeep Wrangler JK/JKU 2/4 Doors
  • Material: 409 Stainless Steel
  • Tube Size: 2-1/2 inches
  • Weight: 23.5 lbs

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Best Exhaust for Jeep JK Reviews

1. MagnaFlow 15160 – Best Sounding Jeep Wrangler JK Exhaust

MagnaFlow 15160 Stainless Steel Performance Exhaust System Kit, Large

Many Jeep Wrangler JK owners seek the system that is not only produced by a well-known manufacturer but also has been on the market for a while not. That is why the MagnaFlow exhaust system is so popular and well-rated. While coming up with the item, the manufacturer seems to put a lot of thought into the design as well as the practicality of the exhaust system. It is easy to install so that you do not need to pay extra for the installation. Also, the sleek black design can fit in almost any vehicle color, not to mention the owner’s preferences. The sound that the exhaust system produces is deep and relaxing, although it may get a little louder after you cross 500 miles range.

Best Features

  • It is extremely light
  • Stylish and sleek design
  • Increased and improved durability
  • Can resist heat up to 1000 F
  • Does not give in to corrosion easily
Product Rating
Exhaust Purr
5/ 5
Mileage
4.9/ 5
Easy to Install
4.9/ 5
Value for Money
4.8/ 5
Result
4.9
Pros & Cons
The satisfying and pleasant sound
Simple bolt-on installation process
Attractive design
Increased slat fog life
Gets louder over time

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Andy Shane
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Those of you who are looking for a trusted manufacturer and a durable exhaust system for your Jeep Wrangler Jk should definitely consider the option. Besides, if you are not afraid of your vehicle getting a little louder as you increase the mileage and you need a durable, tough item, then MagnaFlow is the one to consider.

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2. aFe Power 49-48055 – Best High-Flow Exhaust System for Jeep Wrangler JK

aFe Power 49-48055 Mach Force-Xp Cat-Back Exhaust System

First things first, we need to begin with one advantage that this exhaust system has over its competitors – the clearance. The item is designed in such a way that no matter the angle that you are ascending or descending, there is enough clearance between the system and the surface so that it is not that easy to damage. The muffler that the system comes with deserves particular attention since it is made to produce a powerful sound. The steel that the item is made of is stainless steel. aFe Power 49-48055 fits both 2- and 4-door Wrangler JK models, and that makes it even more requested on the market.

Best Features

  • The item comes with a steel mandrel tubing
  • It is made of 409 steel
  • It fits both 2 and 4 doored Jeep models
  • The hi-tuck design ensures better clearance
Product Rating
Exhaust Purr
4.7/ 5
Mileage
4.8/ 5
Easy to Install
4.7/ 5
Value for Money
4.8/ 5
Result
4.8
Pros & Cons
Great quality comes for a fair price
The installation process is user-friendly
The exhaust system is designed to improve both torque and turbulence
The muffler is made of stainless steel
Gets louder over the time
Leaks have been reported

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Andy Shane
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If you are looking for an affordable exhaust system that comes with Hi-tuck clearance design, then aFe Power 4805 is the one you need. Besides, it fits 2-door and 4-door models.

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3. Dynomax 39510 – Best Budget Exhaust System for Jeep Wrangler JK

Dynomax 39510 Axle-Back System

A tight budget does not mean that you can’t expect to find a quality exhaust system to install on your Jeep Wrangler JK. In fact, Dynomax is one of such affordable models that you need to consider at least. The system comes equipped with fiberglass matting technology, which ensures that there is no internal resonance to bother you. Another important thing about the exhaust system that you need to be aware of is that it is designed to decrease turbulence as well.

Dynomax 39510 is manufactured with regular off-road drivers in mind so that it is as easy to install as it is to afford.

Best Features

  • Improved exhaust flow due to the larger internal tubes
  • All the resonance is absorbed due to the fiberglass matting design
  • The design is highly exclusive
Product Rating
Exhaust Purr
4.8/ 5
Mileage
4.7/ 5
Easy to Install
4.9/ 5
Value for Money
5/ 5
Result
4.9
Pros & Cons
Easy to afford
Comes with double exhausts
Very simple to install
The tip is made of stainless steel
Designed to decrease turbulence
Gets louder over the time
Prone to rust and corrosion

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Andy Shane
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If you do not want to invest into the exhaust system a lot, then you need a good budget option to consider. As a matter of fact, Dynomax is a worthy model to consider. It is one of those times when a great quality comes for a little price.

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4. aFe Scorpion 49-08046 – Best Single Side Exhaust System for Extra Clearance

aFe (49-08046) Scorpion Aluminized Hi-Tuck Axle-Back Exhaust System for Jeep Wrangler JK V6-3.8/3.6L Engine

Are you looking for real American quality when it comes to your exhaust system? I have something that fits your requirements in the store! The fact is that aFe (49-08046) exhaust system of axle-back type is the system that will help you conquer any angles of the hardest off-roads. The manufacturer also has taken additional care of the durability of the system by adding 2 -1/2-inch bent mandrel aluminum tubing. The baffled muffler will contribute to that potent sound that every Jeep Wrangler JK owner looks for. However, the most essential addition that the system will introduce into the performance is horsepower, torque, and throttle response, all due to the increased Cold Air Intake.

Best Features

  • Amazing Hi-tuck design
  • Anti-corrosion protective coating
  • Super-increased durability
  • Contribution to the engine’s horsepower and torque
  • Made in the USA
Product Rating
Exhaust Purr
4.8/ 5
Mileage
4.9/ 5
Easy to Install
4.8/ 5
Value for Money
5/ 5
Result
4.9
Pros & Cons
Extra simple to install
Almost no drone sound
Suits every JK model due to classy design
High ground clearance
May ramble a little when moderate-hard acceleration takes place
Rattling sounds occur

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Andy Shane
Andy Shane
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Devote off-road drivers who are willing to be able to take any route angle will surely appreciate the given exhaust system. Besides, if you are a true patriot, the fact that the system is made in the USA will only add up to the system’s advantages. What is more, timeless design will fit any Wrangler JK no matter the set or the coloring.

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5. Flowmaster 817674 – Best Cat-Back Exhaust for Jeep Wrangler JK

Flowmaster 817674 American Thunder 409S Single Rear Exit Cat-Back System with Moderate Sound

In the vast majority of cases, when you are looking for a new exhaust system for your Jeep Wrangler JK, you pay a lot of attention to the durability and other practical features that come together with it. However, sometimes drivers are interested in the way the system looks too. If you are interested in the best combination of the two, then a Flowmaster’s exhaust system is the one on the list. The classy design and the particular cat-back form, along with increased clearance and improved performance capacity, make the item a little pricier when compared to others. However, I am more than sure that such an investment will prove to be worthy.

Best Features

  • Made of stainless steel
  • The set is dyno tuned
  • Laminar Flow technology is involved
  • The tailpipe is placed high
  • A timeless design that fits all models
Product Rating
Exhaust Purr
4.7/ 5
Mileage
4.8/ 5
Easy to Install
4.6/ 5
Value for Money
4.6/ 5
Result
4.7
Pros & Cons
Quality tested by time
The trusted exhaust system vendor
The system is surprisingly light
Cat-back classy design
The sound the system makes is great
Costlier when compared to other models on the market
May be quite challenging to install for a beginner

Recommendations
Andy Shane
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This particular exhaust system is designed to serve you loyally for a long time. It is made with high clearance so that you can conquer any tough off-road route out there. Surely, it will cost you a pretty penny, but every cent invested in the system will be worth it!

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Best Exhaust System for Jeep Wrangler TJ (Updated October, 2024)

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Editor’s Choice

aFe 49-46223 MACH Force XP 2.5 409 Stainless Steel Cat-Back Exhaust System with Hi-Tuck Tailpipe for Jeep Wrangler TJ

1) aFe 49-46223 Jeep TJ Exhaust System

  • Best Features:
    – Unique bent design
    – Equipped with free-flow muffler
    – Enhanced exhaust sound
  • Type: Cat-Back System
  • Fits Models: 1997-2006 Jeep Wrangler TJ 4.0L
  • Material: 409 Stainless Steel
  • Tube Size: 2.5 inches
  • Weight: 25 lbs

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Dynomax 19391 Exhaust System

2) Dynomax 19391 Exhaust System for Jeep TJ

  • Best Features:
    – Backpressure significantly reduced
    – Price range improved
    – Durable material and strong build
  • Type: Cat-Back System
  • Fits Models: 1997-2006 Jeep Wrangler TJ 4.0L
  • Material: Aluminized Steel
  • Tube Size: 2.5 inches
  • Weight: 26 lbs

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Made in USA New Exhaust Muffler System for Jeep Wrangler

3) Made in USA Exhaust System for Jeep TJ by Mac Store

  • Best Features:
    – Innovative cat-back design
    – Perfect stock fitting
    – Pleasant price for the quality
  • Type: Cat-Back System
  • Fits Models: 1997-2000 Jeep Wrangler TJ 4.0L, 2.5L
  • Material: Aluminized Steel
  • Tube Size: 2.5 inches
  • Weight: 48 lbs

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Best Jeep Wrangler TJ Exhaust System Review

1. aFe 49-46223 – Best Sounding Jeep TJ Exhaust

aFe 49-46223 MACH Force XP 2.5 409 Stainless Steel Cat-Back Exhaust System with Hi-Tuck Tailpipe for Jeep Wrangler TJ

Who could have known that such a simple and practical accessory as an exhaust can not only improve the vehicle’s performance but also enhance its outlook. The fact is that the exhausts that aFe produced are costly but surely worth the investment. To begin with, the item fits the stock location seamlessly. Apart from that, it is extremely durable and equipped with a free-flow muffler. The sound that the item is built to produce is potent and pleasant.

When the sound is of no importance to you, then you should think about the horsepower as well as torque that also improve all due to the item design. Lastly, the installation is utterly user-oriented so that you can easily deal with it on your own.

Product Rating
Exhaust Purr
5/ 5
Mileage
4.9/ 5
Easy to Install
4.9/ 5
Value for Money
4.5/ 5
Result
4.8
Pros & Cons
Unique and sleek design
Effortless installation
Increased horsepower and torque
Requires significant investment

Recommendations
Andy Shane
Andy Shane
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Those of you who are looking for a well-known brand quality will appreciate the exhaust.

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2. Dynomax 19391 – Best Stock Replacement Exhaust for Jeep TJ

Dynomax 19391 Exhaust System

At times you are faced with a necessity to replace the stock exhaust since nothing lasts forever. However, instead of making some rash decisions, it is advised to browse the list of available replacement to find the best one. Dynomax exhausts are designed not only to improve the flow but also to reduce the backpressure. What is more, such an item will also illuminate turbulence, and that is a benefit not to be treated lightly.

Sometimes, drivers complain about unwanted turbulence inside. The exhaust from Dynomax is build to reduce that too. Being the best stock replacement, the accessory comes at a fair price.

Product Rating
Exhaust Purr
4.7/ 5
Mileage
4.8/ 5
Easy to Install
4.9/ 5
Value for Money
5/ 5
Result
4.9
Pros & Cons
Improved and enhanced backpressure
Fair price for the quality
Eliminated turbulence
No significant horsepower increases

Recommendations
Andy Shane
Andy Shane
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Looking for the stock exhaust replacement may take a while. However, no matter how long you seek for, there is rarely an any better option than the one that Dynomax offers.

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3. Exhaust System for Jeep TJ by Mac Store – Best Budget Option

Made in USA New Exhaust Muffler System for Jeep Wrangler

We all know it that the minute you are low on means there is a vital accessory to replace in your Jeep. You should not fall into despair as long as there is a Mac Store at hand. It is true that the option is a budget one, but that does not make it any worse. The fact is that the cat-back system that the brand offers is designed to fit the sock placement and to fulfill the necessary function. Some users were worried about the noisiness of such a budget option, but it no louder than a stock one.

What is more, the sound it produces is a lot more pleasant than you can expect. The installation is a breeze. Usually, what is needed is the set of basic tools at hand.

Product Rating
Exhaust Purr
4.8/ 5
Mileage
4.9/ 5
Easy to Install
4.7/ 5
Value for Money
5/ 5
Result
4.9
Pros & Cons
Build to last long
Fair price for the quality
User-oriented and simplified installation
None found

Made in USA New Exhaust Muffler System for Jeep Wrangler 2.5 & 4.0 1997-1999

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Andy Shane
Andy Shane
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Sometimes it may seem weird when the exhaust is cheaper. Nevertheless, Mac Store has made it possible for a budget option to serve the purpose well.

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Best Exhaust System for Jeep Wrangler JL (Updated October, 2024)

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Editor’s Choice

2018 JEEP JL ATAK BC

1) Borla Jeep JL Exhaust System

  • Best Features:
    – Effective engine boost
    – Made of high-quality material
    – Produced by USA brand
  • Type: Axle-Back System
  • Fits Models: 2018-2020 Jeep Wrangler JL 3.6L 2/4 Door
  • Material: 304 Stainless Steel
  • Tube Size: 2.5 inches
  • Weight: 31 lbs

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aFe Power 49-48080 MACH Force-Xp Axle-Back Exhaust System

2) aFe Power 49-48080 for Jeep JL

  • Best Features:
    – Does not meddle with the clearance
    – High-pitch noise absorption
    – Designed to last longer
  • Type: Axle-Back System
  • Fits Models: 2018-2020 Jeep Wrangler JL 2.0L 3.6L 2/4 Door
  • Material: 409 Stainless Steel
  • Tube Size: 2.5 inches
  • Weight: 27 lbs

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Outlaw Kit

3) FLOWMASTER 817851 Jeep JL Exhaust System

  • Best Features:
    – Enhanced off-roading clearance
    – Simplified installation
    – Reliable quality
  • Type: Cat-Back System
  • Fits Models: 2018-2020 Jeep Wrangler JL 3.6L 2 Door
  • Material: 409 Stainless Steel
  • Tube Size: 2.5 inches
  • Weight: 27 lbs

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Buyer’s Guide

The fact is that no matter the number of options presented in the article, you need a useful guide at hand as to what to pay attention to when choosing the right exhaust system for yourself. There is a number of features to be aware of and to differentiate between. That is why I’m going to point out all of them in this Buyer’s Guide.

Pay attention to the material

First things first – not all the systems are made of the same steel type. There are three main kinds of steel used in exhaust systems, they are:

409 stainless steel – it is a highly popular steel type use din exhaust systems manufacturing. It is quite durable and pretty resistant to corrosion. Usually, the system made of such steel will last you up to 8 years.

304 stainless steel – this is a more durable and long-lasting steel type. However, as you may guess, systems made of this steel type usually cost more.

Aluminized steel – a pipe made of mild steel requires rust-protection, and that is when sprayed aluminum coating comes in more than handy.

Consider the Sound

When you are looking for an exhaust system, the sound it makes may not bother you at all. However, some drivers prefer louder systems to milder-sounding ones, all due to the fact that a louder sound may emphasize the power of the Jeep’s engine. It is optional to compare the sounds of various exhaust systems’ providers, but I think it to be useful information to be brought up to a beginner.

Cat-Back and Axel-Back Systems

It is essential that you differentiate between cat-backs and axal-backs when it comes to choosing a suitable exhaust system.

The truth is that axel-back systems are a lot more affordable and easier to install. This type of exhaust system will improve the quality of the sound that your Jeep produces, but that is about it. It will add up to the general outlook, too, but it will not influence the Jeep’s performance much.

axle-back exhaust system

Cat-back exhaust systems are pricier for a reason. The fact is that when you choose to install this system type in your Jeep, you may as well change all the components of it. Besides, the system is designed in such a way that it will add up to both the general appearance of the Jeep as well as to its performance.

cat-back exhaust system

Considering the Design

It is true that not all drivers pay a lot of attention to this point since all they are interested in is the sound and the performance of the Jeep with a new exhaust system installed. However, if you want your car to look matching with the new system, I suggest you pay a little more attention to the designs available on the market.

Clearance

When it comes to clearance, you need to think about the roads you are going to drive your Jeep on. If you are all about unpredictable and tough off-roads, I suggest you take a system with higher ground clearance so that you do not damage it while ascending or descending an unpredictable off-road.

wrangler class angles

Price

Lastly, every driver should come up with a budget he or she is willing to spend on an exhaust system. There are various prices offered on the market, and not all the systems that come a little cheaper are necessarily worse and vice versa.

FAQ

Is the Exhaust System Street Legal, or Not?

The good news is – most aftermarket exhausts are 100% street legal in all 50 US states. With that said, there’s a small number of gear that, for some reason, isn’t allowed by state laws. The only way to check this is to contact the seller slash manufacturer. They’ll tell you whether the exhaust will be legal in your state/city/area, or not. A quick note: if you’re planning to use it only for off-roading, you won’t even have to worry about the law.

Will I See an Improvement in Performance?

Yes, brand-new exhaust systems tend to boost the HP and torque output, but don’t expect any game-changing results. On average, you’ll be looking at an extra 5-10 HP and torque, which is still pretty good. It’s important to understand that exhausts don’t do anything on their own. The increase in performance only happens because the engine gets to reach its full potential when there are no clogged fumes and problems with the temperature.

How much does a Good Exhaust Cost?

The price will vary depending on your area, the vehicle (make, model year, and the engine), and, of course, the actual manufacturer of that exhaust system. Right now, the market offers outstanding exhausts for 400-500 US dollars. These will serve you for many years, if not decades. You’ll get a roaring sound, some extra HP/torque, and an engine that operates likes clockwork.

A premium-quality exhaust can be as expensive as 700, or even 800 bucks. But, these systems are usually intended for pro-grade racers and a regular driver (even if he/she is a fan of off-roading) shouldn’t really invest that kind of money in a new exhaust.

Conclusion

Not everyone knows, but the better your exhaust system is, the better your engine can breathe. When there is enough cool air sent to the engine, everything starting with horsepower and ending with fuel economy can be increased. There are many exhaust systems available on the market these days, and most of them are different, and there is a reason for that. Depending upon your preferences and needs, you can choose the best fitting one, and hopefully, my review will guide you in the right direction toward the best exhaust system for you, Jeep Wrangler!

About the author

Andy Shane

My name is Andy Shane, and I like to spend my free time conquering the most difficult off-road tracks. Off-road vehicles fascinate me more than any other vehicles types. Surely, there are not so many people who would share the passion for getting out of all possible muds and wilderness in their Jeeps, but those who do will find lots of interesting information in my blog.

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