Honda Civic Si 2017 Exhaust – Unlock Performance & Perfect Sound

Thinking about upgrading your 2017 Honda Civic Si? You’re not alone. Many enthusiasts agree that while the 10th Gen Si is a fantastic car, its factory exhaust leaves a little to be desired in the sound department.

You want that aggressive growl, that satisfying burble, and maybe even a slight bump in performance to match the car’s sporty character. We get it. That’s why we’re here to promise you a comprehensive guide to everything you need to know about enhancing your honda civic si 2017 exhaust system.

In this deep dive, we’ll cover the benefits of an aftermarket system, explore different types, walk you through a DIY installation, offer essential care tips, and troubleshoot common issues. By the end, you’ll be equipped with the knowledge to make an informed decision and give your Si the voice it deserves.

Why Upgrade Your Honda Civic Si 2017 Exhaust?

Upgrading your honda civic si 2017 exhaust isn’t just about making noise; it’s about enhancing the entire driving experience. There are several compelling benefits that draw owners to aftermarket solutions.

Unleashing the Sound You Crave

Let’s be honest, the primary reason most Si owners look at exhaust upgrades is for sound. The stock system is quiet, almost too quiet for a car with such a sporty pedigree. An aftermarket exhaust transforms that muted hum into a symphony of performance, ranging from a deep, resonant tone to an aggressive, race-inspired roar.

Potential Performance Gains

While an exhaust upgrade alone won’t turn your Si into a supercar, a well-designed system can offer modest but noticeable performance improvements. By reducing back pressure, a freer-flowing exhaust allows the turbocharged 1.5-liter engine to breathe more easily. This can translate to:

A slight increase in horsepower and torque.
Improved throttle response.
Better turbo spool-up.

These gains are often more pronounced when paired with other modifications like an intake or a tune, but even on its own, a good exhaust can make a difference you can feel.

Enhanced Aesthetics and Style

Beyond sound and performance, an aftermarket exhaust system significantly upgrades the visual appeal of your Si’s rear end. Many systems feature larger, more aggressive exhaust tips, often in polished stainless steel, titanium, or even carbon fiber. These honda civic si 2017 exhaust tips can dramatically change the car’s stance and give it a more premium, customized look.

Types of Aftermarket Honda Civic Si 2017 Exhaust Systems

When diving into the world of aftermarket exhausts for your honda civic si 2017 exhaust, you’ll encounter a few main types. Understanding the differences is crucial for choosing the right system for your needs and budget.

Axle-Back Exhaust Systems

An axle-back system is the simplest and often the most affordable upgrade. It replaces only the muffler and the piping from the rear axle backward. This is a great option if your primary goal is to change the sound of your Si without major modifications or significant performance aspirations.

Pros: Easiest to install, most budget-friendly, good sound enhancement.
Cons: Minimal to no performance gains, less aggressive appearance than other options.

Cat-Back Exhaust Systems

A cat-back system replaces everything from the catalytic converter back to the exhaust tips. This typically includes the mid-pipe, resonator (if applicable), muffler, and tips. Because it replaces more restrictive factory piping, a cat-back system offers a more significant change in both sound and potential performance compared to an axle-back.

Pros: Noticeable sound improvement, modest performance gains, often includes larger and better-looking tips.
Cons: More expensive and complex to install than axle-back systems.

Front-Pipe and Downpipe Upgrades (Turbo-Back)

For the ultimate in performance and sound, some enthusiasts opt for a full turbo-back system, which includes replacing the downpipe and front-pipe in addition to the cat-back components. The downpipe connects directly to the turbocharger, making it the most restrictive part of the exhaust system. Replacing it with a high-flow aftermarket option can unlock significant power, especially when combined with a tune.

Keep in mind that some aftermarket downpipes may remove or modify the catalytic converter. This can lead to:

Emissions issues: May not be street legal in all areas.
Check engine lights: Requires a tune to prevent “P0420” codes.

Always check your local regulations before considering a downpipe upgrade, especially if it’s a cat-less or high-flow catted design.

Choosing the Right Exhaust: Sound, Performance, and Budget

Navigating the options for your honda civic si 2017 exhaust can be daunting. This guide will help you narrow down the choices based on what truly matters to you.

Defining Your Priorities

Before you start shopping, think about what you want most from your new exhaust:

Sound Level: Do you want a subtle improvement, an aggressive roar, or something in between? Look for sound clips online and read reviews about drone (a persistent hum at certain RPMs) to avoid buyer’s remorse.
Performance: Are you chasing every horsepower, or is sound your main goal? More aggressive systems designed for performance often come with more noise.
Budget: Exhaust systems can range from a few hundred dollars for an axle-back to well over a thousand for a full turbo-back.
Aesthetics: What kind of honda civic si 2017 exhaust tips do you prefer? Single, dual, quad, polished, burnt titanium?
Legality: Check local noise ordinances and emissions laws. Some aftermarket systems might exceed sound limits or alter emissions compliance.

Materials Matter: Stainless Steel vs. Titanium

Most aftermarket exhausts are made from either 304 or 409 stainless steel. 304 stainless is generally preferred for its superior corrosion resistance and polished appearance, making it a great choice for longevity, especially in harsh climates.

Titanium exhausts are much lighter, offering significant weight savings for performance enthusiasts, but they come with a much higher price tag and are more susceptible to damage.

Reputable Brands to Consider

Many trusted brands offer quality exhaust systems for the 2017 Civic Si. Some popular names include:

Remark
Magnaflow
Borla
Invidia
Greddy
HKS
AWE Tuning

Researching reviews and watching sound clips of these brands on a 10th Gen Si will give you a good idea of what to expect.

DIY Installation Guide: How to Honda Civic Si 2017 Exhaust Swap

For the weekend DIYer, installing a cat-back or axle-back honda civic si 2017 exhaust system is a rewarding project. It’s totally achievable with basic tools and a bit of patience. However, safety is paramount, and knowing when to call a pro is essential.

Tools You’ll Need

Gathering your tools beforehand will make the process much smoother:

Jack and jack stands (or a lift)
Wheel chocks
Ratchet and socket set (12mm, 14mm, 17mm are common)
Wrench set
Penetrating oil (e.g., WD-40 Specialist Penetrant)
Exhaust hanger removal tool (highly recommended, but large pliers can work)
Rubber mallet
Torque wrench (for re-installing bolts)
Gloves and safety glasses
Rust-resistant anti-seize compound

Safety First: Before You Start

Always prioritize safety when working under your car:

Work on a level surface. Never work on an incline.
Secure the vehicle. Use wheel chocks on the wheels that remain on the ground.
Use jack stands. Never rely solely on a jack. Lift the car and place jack stands under sturdy frame points.
Let the car cool down. Exhaust components get extremely hot. Give it plenty of time to cool before touching anything.

Step-by-Step Removal

Lift and Secure: Safely lift the rear of your Civic Si and place it on jack stands.
Apply Penetrating Oil: Spray all exhaust hanger bolts and connections with penetrating oil. Let it soak for 10-15 minutes.
Disconnect Sensors (if applicable): If your new system requires it, disconnect any O2 sensors. Be careful with wiring.
Remove Hanger Bushings: Use your exhaust hanger removal tool or large pliers to pry the rubber hangers off the metal rods. This can be tough, so be patient.
Unbolt Connections: Loosen and remove the bolts connecting your factory exhaust to the front pipe (for cat-back) or axle (for axle-back). You might need to support the exhaust with one hand as you unbolt it.
Carefully Remove: With all hangers and bolts disconnected, carefully maneuver the old exhaust system out from under the car. It might be in multiple pieces depending on your system.

Installing Your New System

Clean Flanges: Clean any old gasket material from the mating flanges on your front pipe or axle.
Apply Anti-Seize: Apply a small amount of anti-seize compound to the threads of your new exhaust bolts. This prevents future seizing.
Install New Gaskets: Place new gaskets (usually provided with the kit) on the mating surfaces.
Hang First Section: Start by hanging the largest section of your new exhaust (often the mid-pipe) onto its rubber hangers. Do not fully tighten bolts yet.
Connect and Hang Remaining Sections: Work your way backward, connecting subsequent sections and hanging them on their respective rubber hangers. Ensure all honda civic si 2017 exhaust tips are aligned correctly before tightening.
Snug All Bolts: Once all sections are in place and aligned, snug all bolts by hand.
Final Alignment and Tightening: Step back and check the alignment of the entire system, especially the exhaust tips. Adjust as needed. Then, gradually tighten all bolts, working your way from front to back, to the manufacturer’s specified torque settings.
Reconnect Sensors: Reconnect any O2 sensors you may have disconnected.

Final Checks and Break-in

Before lowering the car, double-check all connections, hangers, and sensor wiring. Start the car and listen for any exhaust leaks (a hissing sound). Take a short drive, listening for any rattles or abnormal noises. It’s normal for a new exhaust to “break in” over the first few hundred miles, often changing its tone slightly as carbon builds up and materials settle.

If you encounter excessive difficulty, stripped bolts, or cannot properly align the system, don’t hesitate to consult a professional mechanic. It’s better to get it done right than to risk damage or a dangerous exhaust leak.

Maximizing Life & Performance: Honda Civic Si 2017 Exhaust Care Guide

Your new honda civic si 2017 exhaust system is an investment. Proper care and maintenance will ensure it looks great, performs optimally, and lasts for years to come. This also contributes to a more sustainable honda civic si 2017 exhaust system by extending its lifespan.

Regular Inspection Routines

Make it a habit to periodically inspect your exhaust system, especially after driving through rough terrain or in areas with road salt.

Visual Check: Look for any signs of rust, cracks, dents, or loose connections. Pay close attention to welds and mounting points.
Hanger Integrity: Check that all rubber hangers are intact and not cracked or stretched. Damaged hangers can lead to rattles and premature wear.
Leak Detection: With the engine running (and cool), listen for any hissing sounds indicating a leak. You can also use a smoke machine if you have access to one, or carefully feel for exhaust gases escaping (wear gloves!).
Bolt Tightness: Over time, vibrations can loosen bolts. Periodically check and retorque any accessible exhaust bolts.

Cleaning and Protecting Your Investment

Keeping your exhaust clean isn’t just for looks; it helps prevent corrosion.

Exhaust Tips: These are the most visible part. Clean honda civic si 2017 exhaust tips regularly with a mild automotive cleaner and a microfiber cloth. For stubborn carbon buildup, a specialized metal polish or fine steel wool (used gently) can restore their shine.
Piping: Wash the rest of the exhaust system when you wash your car. For stainless steel, a good wash and occasional wax can help protect it.
Rust Prevention: In areas with road salt, rinse the underside of your car frequently, especially after winter driving. Consider applying a rust preventative spray to the exhaust hangers and less visible piping.

Eco-Friendly Choices for Your Exhaust

While an exhaust system isn’t typically thought of as “eco-friendly,” you can make sustainable choices:

Durability: Investing in a high-quality stainless steel exhaust system means it will last longer, reducing the need for frequent replacements and minimizing waste.
Maintain Catalytic Converters: Ensure any modifications you make keep your catalytic converters functional and compliant with emissions regulations. These components are vital for reducing harmful pollutants.
Proper Disposal: If you replace your stock exhaust, ensure the old components are recycled or disposed of responsibly.

Troubleshooting Common Problems with Your Honda Civic Si 2017 Exhaust

Even with a quality aftermarket system, you might encounter some common issues. Knowing how to diagnose and address them is key to maintaining a pleasant driving experience and ensuring the longevity of your honda civic si 2017 exhaust.

Annoying Rattles and Vibrations

This is one of the most frequent complaints after an exhaust install.

Loose Hangers: Check all rubber hangers. They might be worn, cracked, or simply not fully seated.
Contact Points: The exhaust pipe might be touching the chassis, a heat shield, or another component. Look for rub marks. Adjust hangers or gently bend the pipe away from the contact point if safe to do so.
Loose Bolts: Re-tighten all exhaust bolts.
Internal Baffle Issues: Less common with new systems, but sometimes a baffle inside the muffler can come loose, causing a metallic rattle. This usually requires muffler replacement.

Exhaust Leaks

A leak can cause a noticeable change in sound, reduce performance, and even allow exhaust fumes into the cabin.

Loose Connections: Re-tighten all flange bolts.
Damaged Gaskets: Gaskets can wear out or become damaged during installation. Inspect them and replace if necessary.
Cracks: Inspect welds and piping for cracks, especially if you’ve scraped the exhaust on something. Small cracks might be weld-repairable, but larger ones could require replacement sections.

The Dreaded Drone

Exhaust drone is a low-frequency hum that can be very annoying, especially during highway cruising at specific RPMs. Not all exhausts drone, but some designs are more prone to it.

Resonators: Adding a well-designed resonator can often help mitigate drone.
Helmholtz Resonators: Some exhaust systems incorporate specific “Helmholtz” or “J-pipe” resonators designed to cancel out specific drone frequencies.
Insulation: Adding sound deadening material to the trunk and under the rear seats can help reduce cabin drone, though it won’t eliminate the source.
Change Driving Style: Sometimes, slightly adjusting your gear or speed can move you out of the drone RPM range.

Check Engine Light (CEL) – P0420 Code

If you upgraded your downpipe to a high-flow catted or cat-less option, you might trigger a P0420 code (Catalyst System Efficiency Below Threshold).

O2 Sensor Spacers: A temporary fix for cat-less downpipes, these move the O2 sensor out of the direct exhaust stream, fooling the ECU.
ECU Tune: The most reliable solution for downpipe upgrades is an ECU tune that can recalibrate for the changed exhaust flow and suppress the P0420 code. This is also essential for maximizing performance gains.

Essential Honda Civic Si 2017 Exhaust Tips & Best Practices

To ensure your exhaust upgrade is a success and provides lasting satisfaction, follow these best practices for your honda civic si 2017 exhaust.

Always Use New Gaskets: Never reuse old exhaust gaskets. Always replace them with new ones provided with your kit or purchased separately.
Anti-Seize is Your Friend: Apply a small amount of anti-seize compound to all exhaust bolt threads during installation. This makes future removal much easier, especially if you live in a rust-prone area.
Proper Hanger Lubrication: Use a silicone-based lubricant or WD-40 on the rubber exhaust hangers before attempting to remove or install them. This makes the job significantly easier.
Gradual Tightening: Don’t just crank down one bolt. Snug all connections first, then gradually tighten them evenly to ensure proper seating and prevent leaks.
Exhaust Alignment is Key: Take your time to align the entire system, especially the tips, before fully tightening. A misaligned exhaust looks sloppy and can cause contact issues.
Consider a Tune: While not strictly necessary for most cat-back systems, a proper ECU tune can optimize your engine’s performance to take full advantage of a less restrictive exhaust, especially with downpipe upgrades.
Listen for Changes: Pay attention to any new sounds or changes in exhaust note. Early detection of rattles or leaks can save you headaches down the road.
Know Your Local Laws: Be aware of noise ordinances and emissions regulations in your area. An overly loud or non-compliant exhaust could lead to fines.

Frequently Asked Questions About Honda Civic Si 2017 Exhaust Upgrades

Here are some common questions we hear from fellow enthusiasts about upgrading their honda civic si 2017 exhaust.

Does upgrading my exhaust void my warranty?

Generally, a cat-back or axle-back exhaust upgrade itself will not void your entire vehicle warranty. However, if a problem directly related to the exhaust system (e.g., a broken hanger, a cracked pipe) arises, the manufacturer may deny a warranty claim for that specific issue. If you replace the downpipe and catalytic converter, this can impact emissions-related warranty components and potentially other engine parts if not properly tuned.

Will I need a tune after installing a new exhaust?

For most cat-back or axle-back systems, a tune is not strictly necessary. The ECU can usually adapt to the minor changes in exhaust flow. However, if you install a high-flow catted or cat-less downpipe, an ECU tune is highly recommended to prevent check engine lights (P0420) and to fully optimize engine performance for the less restrictive exhaust.

What’s the difference between cat-back and axle-back?

An axle-back exhaust replaces only the muffler and piping from the rear axle backward. A cat-back exhaust replaces everything from the catalytic converter back, including the mid-pipe, resonator (if present), muffler, and tips. Cat-back systems offer more significant sound and potential performance changes.

How loud is too loud for an aftermarket exhaust?

This is subjective and also depends on local noise ordinances. What sounds good to one person might be too loud for another or for the law. Always research sound clips and read reviews. Many aftermarket exhausts for the Civic Si are designed to be sporty without being obnoxious, but some can be very aggressive. Consider your daily driving habits and neighbors!

Can I install an exhaust without a lift?

Yes, you can install an axle-back or cat-back exhaust using a good quality jack and jack stands. Ensure the car is safely and securely lifted, and you have enough clearance to work comfortably underneath. A lift makes the job much easier, but it’s not essential for most DIYers.

Upgrading your honda civic si 2017 exhaust is one of the most satisfying modifications you can make to your 10th Gen Si. It transforms the driving experience, giving your car the voice and presence it deserves.

By following this guide, whether you’re tackling the installation yourself or simply choosing the right system, you’re now equipped with the knowledge to make informed decisions. Remember to prioritize safety, take your time, and enjoy the process.

Get out there, make some noise, and enjoy the enhanced performance and aesthetics of your Si. Stay safe and happy wrenching!

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Thomas Corle

Founder & Automobile expert at FatBoysOffroad

Automobile expert and off-road enthusiast, sharing in-depth knowledge of vehicles, gear, and adventures. Helping readers make smart decisions and enjoy the thrill of off-roading safely and confidently.