If you own a car with a V6 engine configuration, then there are some things you might be unhappy about. Some of these things include high fuel consumption, poor sound quality, and poor engine performance. In most cases, these issues are caused by the low quality of the stock muffler. Therefore, to upgrade your V6 engine sound from apathy into an affinity, you need to replace your stock muffler with an aftermarket alternative such as the best muffler for V6.
Now, choosing a good aftermarket muffler to improve your V6 engine is not just a walk in the park. Besides improving sound quality, a good muffler boosts the performance of the engine such as boosting horsepower, torque and lowering fuel consumption.
With so many options available in the market, choosing a reliable muffler can be quite overwhelming. Thankfully, this guide has come to your rescue to discuss ten of the best aftermarket mufflers for V6 engines.
Contents
Best Muffler For v6: Editor’s Top Picks
Top 10 Best Muffler For v6 Reviews:
1. MagnaFlow 4in x 9in Dual Performance Muffler Exhaust
Product Specifications
- Material: Stainless Steel
- Length: 20-Inches
- Inlet/Outlet Diameter: 2.5-Inches
The MagnaFlow 11386 Muffler Exhaust has bulldozed its way at the top of our list and for a good reason. Now, MagnaFlow mufflers are known for producing loud yet deep and rich sounds. Since this muffler is no exception, most drivers have picked it over its closest rivals due to several key reasons.
First, this muffler is specifically designed for off-road use. It has a perforated design that consists of an inner stainless mesh wrapped around acoustic fibers to deliver a smooth deep tone. To optimize engine performance, MagnaFlow has added dual exhausts in this muffler with a length of 20 inches and an inlet/outlet diameter of 2.5 inches.
Still, on the design, this muffler is equipped with a free-flowing straight-through perforated steel core that allows excellent airflow to optimize exhaustion for better fuel economy. To give this muffler a longer lifespan, MagnaFlow has used stainless steel metal to prevent corrosion and lower the rate of wear. To allow universal configuration, this best-sounding muffler for V6 can be cut and welded easily to fit a wide range of automobiles.
Highlighted Features
- Compatible with standard 2.5” exhaust pipes
- It’s free to any form of customization
- Stainless steel construction prevents corrosion
- The acoustic fiberfill provides rich and superior sound
- Maximizes engine horsepower
2. Flowmaster 953047 3 In(C)/Out(O) Super 40 Series Muffler
Product Specifications
- Material: Aluminized Steel
- Inlet/Outlet Diameter: 3-Inches
- MIG Welded
If you’re looking to improvise the sound quality of your V6 engine, then the Flowmaster Super 40 Series Muffler is the perfect pick for you. What makes this muffler a top contender is how it blends well with both off-road and street vehicles. Speaking of the performance, this muffler is equipped with a patented Delta Flow Technology that introduces an aggressive deep exhaust sound that’s quite inspiring.
Other than the deep sound, this technology ensures better engine optimization by improving horsepower and allowing better fuel economy. Another feature that makes the Flowmaster Super 40 Series Muffler a must-have is its brilliant interior resonance that ranges from low to moderate. With this feature, this muffler allows excellent airflow and exhaustion, which leads to a vibrant sound tone.
When it comes to fabrication, the Flowmaster Super 40 Series Muffler is constructed from 16-gauge aluminized steel that’s carefully welded to make it solid. Since the muffler is expected to mount beneath the car, durability has been enhanced, as the structure is solid enough to resist corrosion.
Highlighted Features
- This muffler is MIG welded to make it solid
- Made from aluminized steel to resist corrosion
- Compatible with 3-inch exhaust systems
- Best for off-road trucks and lighter vehicles
- Aids in improving horsepower and engine torque
3. Borla 400286 ProXS Muffler
Product Specifications
- Material: T-304 Stainless Steel
- Inlet/Outlet Diameter: 2.5”
- Shape: Oval
The Borla 400286 ProXS Muffler is another excellent pick if you’re looking to witness some supreme street performance. Designed with an oval shape and an S interior design, this muffler allows efficient airflow that improves exhaust flow and allows the engine to work cleaner and more efficiently. As a result, this leads to reduced fuel costs and lower emissions.
Now, the Borla 400286 ProXS Muffler is equipped with a unique inlet/outlet configuration. The dual inlet/outlet pipes have a diameter of 2.5 inches with an overall length of 24 inches. To optimize the performance of your V6 engine, this best muffler for V6 truck uses a unique high-temperature CFF acoustic material to give the engine an excellent boost and improved horsepower.
Also, the Acoustic-Filament Fiber (CFF) used on the inside helps to streamline the sound produced to ensure it’s not loud enough to disturb your driving comfort. About the construction, the Borla 400286 ProXS Muffler is constructed from a high-quality austenitic stainless steel metal that’s highly resistant to corrosion. In fact, to boost its longevity, Borla has welded all the seam points to prevent undue cracks.
Highlighted Features
- This muffler is usable on both V6 and lighter V8 engines
- Has a multi-core technology that boosts the engine and improves horsepower
- The Aircraft-grade stainless steel used is durable and rust-resistant
- Welded seams prevent chances of rust
- S shape design optimizes airflow for efficient fuel economy
4. Dynomax Super Turbo 17748 Exhaust Muffler
Product Specifications
- Technology: CRF Technology
- Inlet/Outlet Diameter: 1.75”-3”
- Material: Stainless Steel
There are times when your V6 engine may need a little upgrade to boost its performance. If that’s what you’re up to, then the Dynomax Super Turbo Muffler is exactly what you need. Now, the reason why this muffler has squeezed itself into our list is its impressive dedication to add performance, rumbling sound, and some attractiveness to your auto.
Although the rest of the aftermarket mufflers offer similar benefits, the Dynomax 17748 has a slight advantage that makes it special. First, the exhaust system of this muffler has a straight-through design that allows efficient airflow at a rate of 550 SCFM. Secondly, the interior is carefully bandaged with fiberglass matting to allow premium acoustic control.
What this means is that the CRF technology used reduces internal resonance by absorbing unwanted sounds. About the fabrication, this muffler is constructed from aluminized steel to keep it immune against rust formation. Installation is obviously straightforward but only when you get the right fit for your specific vehicle.
Highlighted Features
- Fiberglass matting absorbs unwanted interior sounds
- Straight through design allows precise airflow up to 550 SCFM
- Stainless steel construction lowers the rate of wear
- Compatible with most standard exhaust systems
- Designed to reduce the backpressure
5. Cherry Bomb 7426 Extreme Muffler
Product Specifications
- Material: Welded Stainless Steel
- Design: Wing Plate Straight Through Design
- Inlet/Outlet Diameter: 2.5”
If sound and performance are two of the factors you’re really keen on, then the Cherry Bomb 7426 Extreme Muffler will not disappoint you. Having served in the automobile business for over 40 years, Cherry Bomb has won the hearts of most car enthusiasts due to its consistency and incredible performance.
Now, the Cherry Bomb 7426 Muffler has a tiny oval-shaped body, a wing plate design, and an inlet/outlet diameter of 2.5 inches. The interior is straight through meaning precise airflow is guaranteed. With these unique characteristics, this muffler can optimize the sound of your V6 engine making it deep, throaty, and outstanding. Additionally, the Cherry Bomb 7426 Muffler doesn’t have fiberglass matting on the inside. This intentional omission of internal baffles allows this muffler to emphasize more on exhaust flow rather than sound control.
About the construction, the Cherry Bomb 7426 Muffler is welded from aluminized steel to increase its durability. It’s then painted with a high-temperature Red coating to make it water and rust-proof. On the aesthetic side, the Red coating gives this muffler a cool customized look that makes all heads turn when racing or just taking a ride across the streets.
Highlighted Features
- Has a small oval shape design for easy compatibility
- Straight through design optimizes airflow
- 100% welded to allow excellent durability
- Red painting lowers chances of rust and corrosion
- The design delivers loud and aggressive sound
6. Flowmaster 8525454 Super 40 409s Muffler
Product Specifications
- Technology: Delta-Flow Technology
- Material: 409SS stainless steel
- Inlet/Outlet Diameter: 2.5-Inches
Once again, Flowmaster has made a second appearance, but this time with a dual muffler as opposed to the previous single muffler. The Flowmaster 8525454 Muffler is exactly what we’re talking about. Now, with its dual exhausts, this muffler boasts of being the best go-to modification option for your V6 engine. Just like the rest of the mufflers in the Super 40 series, the Flowmaster 8525454 Muffler has noticeable specifications that make it a high performer.
One of those is the patented Delta-Flow Technology that lowers the chances of backpressure. Combining this feature with the aggressive sound exhaust note, this Muffler can offer a perfect combo of noticeable sound and improved engine performance.
About its construction, the Flowmaster 8525454 Muffler is constructed from fully welded 409SS stainless steel metal to make it durable. The welding is a major boost to this muffler as it keeps the seams watertight to lower the chances of rust and corrosion. About the fitment, this best muffler for V6 is compatible with most V6 and V8 engines making it a perfect upgrade option for both trucks and light vehicles.
Highlighted Features
- Delivers an aggressive deep sound
- Reduces backpressure for better engine performance
- The housing is MIG welded to lower chances of rust and corrosion
- Compatible with most V6 and V8 engines
- Has an easy installation process
7. MagnaFlow 10416 Round Center Muffler Exhaust
Product Specifications
- Inlet/Outlet Diameter: 2.5-Inches
- Shape: Rounded
Perhaps the main reason for MagnaFlow’s impressive form is the construction of mufflers that come in different sizes and configurations to fit your needs. The MagnaFlow 10416 Round Center Muffler is one example of their recent offerings that meet all your V6 engine’s needs and demands. In fact, this muffler has featured in almost all aftermarket muffler reviews due to its impressive performance.
Now, this muffler has a very unique rounded body that’s quite different from most oval-shaped mufflers. The long rounded body provides unrestricted airflow through the system to give your V6 engine a uniquely deep and aggressive sound. Other than the sound, unrestricted airflow shoulders some of the engine’s burden to allow improved engine performance and better fuel economy.
The MagnaFlow 10416 Round Center Muffler doesn’t just stop there. This muffler is made from a CNC precision stainless steel metal for quality fitment and improved durability. MagnaFlow has even gone ahead to brush the steel housing with a satin finish to make it appealing and highly resistant to rust. This muffler has an inlet/outlet diameter of 2.5-inches, a body length of 14-inches, and an overall length of 20-inches.
Highlighted Features
- Large inlet/outlet diameter allows unrestricted airflow
- Designed to deliver smooth and deep tone
- Compatible with both trucks and street vehicles
- Stainless steel construction lowers chances of rust and corrosion
- The satin finish gives this muffler a classic look
8. DC Sports EX-5016 Exhaust Muffler
Product Specifications
- Material: Stainless Steel
- Inlet/Outlet Diameters: 2.25” & 3.25”
- Shape: Rounded
Similar to most mufflers we’ve discussed here, the DC Sports EX-5016 Exhaust Muffler is a complete package that optimizes the performance of your V6 engine in an incredible way. Just like our former MagnaFlow 10416 Round Center Muffler, the DC Sports EX-5016 has a rounded body that allows unrestricted airflow for better engine performance.
Speaking of the design, the DC Sports EX-5016 Muffler has a slant cut exhaust tip that gives it a very unique appearance. In fact, some people argue that the slant cut tip is one reason that gives this muffler a signature exhaust tone that sounds like music to most avid drivers.
About the design, this muffler has not been left behind. Similar to most aftermarket mufflers, the DC Sports EX-5016 Muffler is constructed from a welded stainless steel metal that’s MIG welded to prevent chances of rust and corrosion. The inlet diameter of the exhaust is 2.25” while the outlet is 3.25”. With such a design, chances of back-pressure are highly reduced to ensure your V6 engine enjoys improved horsepower and torque.
Highlighted Features
- This muffler comes with clamps and adapters for easy installation
- The 100% steel polish gives this muffler a classic look
- Stainless steel construction lowers chances of corrosion
- The rounded shape produces a deep resonant sound
- Reduces back-pressure to boost horsepower and torque
9. Lawson Industries 77754 Muffler
Product Specifications
- Inlet/Outlet Diameter: 3”
- Design: 3-Chambered Design
- Material: Aluminized Steel
Our discussion can never be complete without the Lawson Industries 77754 Insynerator Muffler. Unlike most of the mufflers we’ve listed in our discussion, this one is specifically designed for large displacement engines such as utilitarian trucks and SUVs. And why exactly? You see, unlike other mufflers, this one has a high-flowing 3-chamber design that lets it meet the demands of heavy-duty V6 engines.
Since it’s expected to meet a lot of abuse in its line of duty, Lawson Industries has constructed this muffler with premium aluminized stainless steel to prolong its lifespan. As if it’s not enough, they’ve gone ahead to polish the exterior with a satin finish to coat the steel metal to prevent it from accumulating rust.
Now to the performance, the Lawson Industries 77754 Insynerator Muffler is designed with dual inlet/out exhausts to optimize engine performance. All the exhausts have a diameter of 3”, which is much wider for efficient airflow. What this means is that you’ll enjoy deep aggressive sounds and improved horsepower on your V6 engine.
Highlighted Features
- Suits majority of the large displacement engines
- Offers excellent sound and better engine performance
- Improves engine torque and horsepower
- Satin finish aids in reducing chances of rust and corrosion
- Available at an affordable price
10. Borla 40349 Muffler
Product Specifications
- Material: T304 Stainless Steel
- Inlet/Outlet Diameter: 3” & 2.5”
- Shape: Oval
Claiming the remaining position is the Borla 40349 Muffler. Now, although this muffler came last, it doesn’t mean that it’s poorly made. In fact, most people claim it’s the best muffler for V6 Mustang, and for a good reason. Just like the rest of the Borla Mufflers, this one has a straight-through design that lowers any restrictions to allow exhaust gases to move with more velocity.
This design is quite different from baffled or petitioned mufflers, which block airflow leading to backpressure hence low torque and poor engine performance. The Borla 40349 Muffler doesn’t stop there. This muffler has a perforated steel tube that’s bandaged with several layers of continuous-filament fiber to absorb ceramic sound. This leads to surprisingly deeper tones and improved engine performance at all rev ranges.
About the construction, the Borla 40349 Muffler is fabricated using stainless steel metal that’s carefully welded to prevent rust and corrosion. The shape of this muffler is oval and the overall length is 24 inches. The tubes consist of a single inlet with a diameter of 3” and dual outlets with a diameter of 2.5”. In case you’re searching for a muffler that’s confident in its quality and craftsmanship, then the Borla 40349 Muffler is exactly what you need.
Highlighted Features
- Proudly made in the USA
- Made from 100% welded stainless steel metal
- Natural mill polish lowers chances of rust and corrosion
- Patented straight-through design improves exhaust gas velocity
- Provides deeper exhaust tone than stock mufflers
Things to Consider When Choosing a Muffler for V6
In most cases, the main purpose for getting an aftermarket muffler is to upgrade your V6 engine with an exhaust that has lesser restrictions. In our discussion, all the mufflers we’ve listed promise improved horsepower, better mileage, and impressive resonant tone.
But, while it’s easier said than done, choosing a perfect muffler that meets all your V6 engine demands can be quite overwhelming. Thankfully, this guide has offered to reveal some little secrets of choosing the best aftermarket muffler.
So, with these parameters at your disposal, all you need is to align them like a puzzle to get a muffler that suits your needs and demands.
Material:
When choosing the best muffler for V6, you need to consider the type of material used in the construction. Since a muffler is fitted beneath the vehicle, it undergoes a lot of physical abuse such as being exposed to salts, rocks, water, and other road debris.
Such extreme pressure can hurt the longevity of your muffler leading to premature wear. So, to avoid this, you need to pick a material that’s not only strong but also immune to corrosion. Aluminized steel and stainless steel are two of the most common materials you can consider. The former is cheaper and highly susceptible to corrosion while the latter is strong and highly resistive to rust.
Pipe Diameter:
Another vital consideration you need to keep in mind when choosing a muffler for a V6 engine is the diameter of the pipe. In our discussion, we mentioned different pipe diameters such as 2”, 2.5”, and 3”. When choosing a muffler, you need to check your engine’s specifications to determine the right pipe diameter. Getting the wrong size is very dangerous as it can hurt the performance of the engine.
Exhaust Configuration:
This is another critical parameter that must be considered when choosing a muffler. You see, mufflers come in different configurations depending on your engine’s specifications. Some vehicles use dual exhausts while others rely on single exhaust systems.
So, if your vehicle has a factory dual exhaust design, then you’ll need to buy two mufflers to match that configuration. Sometimes, you’ll need to perform some modifications to the muffler, such as cutting and welding to make it fit perfectly into your vehicle.
X-Pipe vs. H-Pipe:
The markings X and H represent the shape of the pipe you’ll need. These pipes are determined by the length of the headers in your vehicles. Headers come in two variants that include long-tube headers and shorty headers.
Now, H-pipes have baffles that restrict the flow of exhaust gases. This allows them to offer slightly less power than their X-pipe counterparts. Since X-pipes don’t restrict the flow of air, they produce a more resonant sound.
Now, back to headers, we mentioned that there are short tubes and long tube headers. Long tube headers improve engine horsepower making them the best for racing vehicles. However, they’re not environmentally safe.
Shorty headers, on the other hand, lag behind their long tube counterparts in terms of performance. However, these headers are environmentally safe making them the best for street use or use in regions that have strict emission restrictions.
Coating:
Finally, yet importantly, there’s the issue of coating. Other than the sound, the best muffler for V6 Mustang should have the right coating that protects it from various environmental factors such as rust and corrosion. In most cases, ceramic coating is heavily preferred over Chrome as it has a great heat-absorbing advantage.
Types of Mufflers
Although our discussion is specifically pointed to the V6 engine, these engines are installed in vehicles with different mechanical parts and different specifications. For that reason, mufflers come in different variations to suit the various car specifications. So, in this section, we’re going to discuss three types of mufflers that are available in the market.
- Chambered Mufflers
Now, chambered muffles are very common among most streetcars, and for a good reason. Just as their name suggests, these mufflers are equipped with multiple chambers on the inside that bounce sound waves across the walls to streamline the wavelength.
In the process, certain wavelengths, such as annoying sounds with high frequencies, are canceled out leaving you with a deep rumble that sits on the low end of the engine sound.
- Straight-Through Muffles
Just as the name implies, straight-through mufflers lack the baffles that restrict the flow of exhaust gases. This means that air flows freely from the inlet through to the outlet. The interior has a layer of fiberglass material as well as perforations to create a slight barrier that’s responsible for the loud howl. Two advantages that make straight-through the best sounding muffler for V6 are; one, air flows freely leading to loud sounds, and two, there’s improved horsepower and torque.
- Turbo Mufflers
Lastly, we have turbo mufflers. These mufflers are kind of hybrid as they combine the features of straight-through and chambered mufflers. Here, exhaust gases are channeled through a series of pipes that contain fiberglass baffles to absorb annoying frequencies and high sound decibels. The result is a much quieter sound that doesn’t cause any nuisance.
This feature makes these mufflers the best for all-purpose use especially in the streets or regions where deep turbo sounds are heavily restricted. But, despite this advantage, turbo mufflers have one huge problem. They create considerably more backpressure that makes them a poor pick for naturally aspirated engines.
Frequently Asked Questions about Muffler for v6
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Is a Muffler a Mandatory Part?
The answer is No. A muffler is not a necessity, as it doesn’t hurt the engine when you drive without one. However, when it comes to the sound level, driving without a muffler means that your vehicle will generate sounds with higher decibels, which will be a nuisance to your neighbors. Therefore, if you live in areas or rather cities where noise is a violation, then you’ll have to install a muffler to avoid landing into trouble.
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How Can You Make a V6 Sound Better?
Most people claim that V6 engines produce harsh throaty sounds. So, to improve the sound as well as the performance of the engine, you need to get the best muffler for V6 truck such as the ones we’ve listed in our discussion.
If you’re looking for an aggressive loud sound, a muffler with a straight-through design is the best choice. If you’re looking for a smooth deep-sounding tone that comes from the low end of the engine, then you can pick a chambered muffler.
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What’s the Working Mechanism of a Muffler?
Mufflers come in two main variations that are chambered and glass-packed mufflers. With chambered mufflers, the sound is channeled through a series of chambers to manipulate its output. With fiber-packed muffles, the sound is channeled through a chamber packed with fiberglass to give it a distinctive popping sound.
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Can I Fix Dual Mufflers in My V6?
Upgrading your V6 engine with dual exhausts is a great way to improve the flow of exhaust gases. This creates excellent sound and improved engine performance, which is equivalent to low fuel consumption. However, before you can upgrade your auto, you must consider your car’s exhaust configuration to ensure that it’s compatible with dual mufflers.
Final Thoughts
As you can see, a muffler is an essential exhaust upgrade that can’t be ignored. This component plays a key role in the performance of the engine and the quality of sound. If you’re looking to upgrade the performance of your V6 engine to make it superior, then a muffler is a perfect add-on that can make a huge difference.
Therefore, with this knowledge in mind, this insightful guide has discussed 10 high-quality mufflers that can make a huge difference in your V6 engine. They come in two types that are the straight-through and chambered variants.
If you’re looking for loud aggressive sound with better throttle response, the straight-through or fiberglass variants are the best option. On the other hand, if you’re looking for deep-sounding tones, then the chambered mufflers are the best option. So, with that said, we believe that this guide has shaded some light when it comes to the best muffler for V6.
