Davis Bellew Are you considering a muffler delete for your Subaru but worried it might void your warranty? If so, you’re not alone. Many Subaru owners are concerned about the impact a muffler delete might have on their warranty. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at this issue and help you determine whether a muffler delete is a good choice for your Subaru.
Key Takeaways
- A muffler delete can potentially void your Subaru warranty if it leads to a problem with your vehicle.
- Some Subaru dealerships may overlook a muffler delete during routine inspections, but this isn’t always the case.
- If you’re considering a muffler delete, it’s important to weigh the potential risks against the benefits and make an informed decision.
What Is a Muffler Delete?
Before we dive into the question of whether a muffler delete will void your Subaru warranty, let’s first define what a muffler delete is. A muffler delete is a modification that involves removing the muffler from your vehicle’s exhaust system. By eliminating the muffler, you can improve the flow of exhaust gases and potentially increase horsepower and torque.
Muffler deletes are a popular modification among car enthusiasts, and they can provide a more aggressive sound for your vehicle. However, they can also be quite loud, which may not be ideal for everyone.
Will a Muffler Delete Void my Subaru Warranty?
The short answer is yes, a muffler delete can potentially void your Subaru warranty. This is because any modification that alters the original design of your vehicle can potentially lead to a problem down the line. If a problem does arise, and it’s determined that the muffler delete played a role, your warranty claim could be denied.
Subaru’s warranty policy is quite clear on this point. According to the policy, "Any modifications or alterations to the vehicle that affect its performance, durability or safety are not covered under the Subaru Limited Warranty."
That being said, some Subaru dealerships may overlook a muffler delete during routine inspections, particularly if the modification is not causing any issues with the vehicle. However, this is not guaranteed, and it’s important to understand the potential risks before making any modifications to your vehicle.
The Risks of a Muffler Delete
There are several risks associated with a muffler delete, including the following:
Voided Warranty
As mentioned earlier, a muffler delete can potentially void your Subaru warranty. If a problem arises with your vehicle and it’s determined that the muffler delete played a role, your warranty claim could be denied.
Potential for Damage
Removing the muffler from your vehicle’s exhaust system can potentially lead to damage to other components. For example, without the muffler to filter out exhaust gases, the catalytic converter may become damaged over time.
Noise Pollution
Muffler deletes can be quite loud, which can be a nuisance for your neighbors and others on the road. Depending on where you live, there may be legal restrictions on the amount of noise your vehicle can produce.
Reduced Resale Value
Modifying your vehicle in any way can potentially reduce its resale value. This may not be a concern if you plan to keep your Subaru for a long time, but if you ever decide to sell it, you may find that the modification has reduced its value.
The Benefits of a Muffler Delete
Despite the potential risks, there are some benefits to a muffler delete, including the following:
Improved Performance
By eliminating the muffler, you can improve the flow of exhaust gases, which can potentially increase horsepower and torque. This can lead to improved performance and a more enjoyable driving experience.
Enhanced Sound
Muffler deletes can provide a more aggressive sound for your vehicle, which can be appealing to some car enthusiasts.
Cost Savings
Muffler deletes are generally less expensive than other modifications, such as installing a new exhaust system.
Making an Informed Decision
If you’re considering a muffler delete for your Subaru, it’s important to weigh the potential risks against the benefits and make an informed decision.
Consider the following factors:
- Your warranty: If your Subaru is still under warranty, a muffler delete could potentially void it.
- Your driving habits: If you often drive in areas where noise restrictions are in place, a muffler delete may not be the best choice for you.
- Your future plans: If you plan to sell your Subaru at some point in the future, a muffler delete could potentially reduce its resale value.
- Your budget: Muffler deletes are generally less expensive than other modifications, but they still represent an out-of-pocket expense.
Ultimately, the decision to install a muffler delete comes down to your personal preferences and priorities.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will a muffler delete make my Subaru louder?
Yes, a muffler delete will make your Subaru louder. By removing the muffler, you’re eliminating a component that’s designed to reduce the noise produced by your vehicle’s combustion process.
How much does a muffler delete cost?
The cost of a muffler delete can vary depending on your location and the type of vehicle you have. Generally, you can expect to pay anywhere from $100 to $500 for a muffler delete.
Can I install a muffler delete myself?
While it’s technically possible to install a muffler delete yourself, we recommend hiring a professional to ensure the job is done safely and correctly.
Are there any legal restrictions on muffler deletes?
Depending on where you live, there may be legal restrictions on the amount of noise your vehicle can produce. It’s important to research the laws in your area before installing a muffler delete.
Conclusion
A muffler delete can potentially void your Subaru warranty, but it can also provide some benefits in terms of improved performance and enhanced sound. Ultimately, the decision to install a muffler delete comes down to your personal preferences and priorities. If you’re considering a muffler delete, it’s important to weigh the potential risks against the benefits and make an informed decision.
