Running Downpipe Without Tuning (Should You?)

A downpipe routes the harmful exhaust gasses from your car's turbine into your exhaust system. It bolts right to the turbine housing, has at least one restrictive catalytic converter, and moves the exhaust gasses as efficiently as possible. These are effective in releasing the contaminated exhaust gases from your car. 

Why Do You Need a Downpipe?

A downpipe ensures the efficacy of the turbo aspect of your car's engine. It navigates the harmful gases away from the turbine, leading to more power generation. An aftermarket downpipe typically features more total capacities, offering better airflow than stock options. Hence, the increased diameter ensures a more significant space for a faster turbo spin. This boost in spin creates a tremendous difference. It lowers the turbo lag, generating more spool. So, when you install an aftermarket downpipe in your vehicle, you reduce the intake charge and engine temperature, achieving the engine power you always wanted.

The non-factory issue downpipe can significantly boost your excitement levels if you are a car enthusiast who appreciates high power and performance.

For instance, let's say you have bought yourself a high-end, supercharged vehicle — maybe a Mercedes. You will probably want to test its limits while driving, and purchasing an aftermarket downpipe replacement is all you need to let your dream car surpass your expectations. This is why you can consider replacing your Mercedes stock downpipe with an aftermarket component with a larger diameter. You can also replace the stock catalytic converter with a high-flowing converter through the assistance of a professional aftermarket car products dealer. 

What is the Importance of Downpipe Tuning?

You might have already understood how an aftermarket downpipe can boost your vehicle's horsepower. Now, the next question is — do you also need to tune?

A quick answer is that you can install the aftermarket downpipe and skip the tuning process. However, it is recommended to tune your aftermarket downpipe to achieve more horsepower and ensure that the check engine light does not turn on. An aftermarket downpipe can offer 25 horsepower without tuning and upto 50 after tuning. So, the decision is yours! 

Benefits of Downpipe Tuning

More Horsepower

As already discussed, tuning equips your car's computer to inject more fuel for each airflow reading. This increases horsepower as the combustion chamber gets more air because of the aftermarket downpipe: More air + More injected fuel = more horsepower. 

Reduced Wear and Tear

Your vehicle's computer (ECU) controls the exhaust valve's opening and closing by measuring the exhaust system's backpressure. If the backpressure reaches a specific amount — the valve opens to release the gasses from the combustion chamber, allowing fresh air to enter. Installing an aftermarket downpipe decreases the back pressure on the engine. 

And, without dyno tuning, your vehicle's ECU might mess up the proper timing in opening/ closing the valve since the backpressure reading is comparatively lower with the downpipe. This can decrease the performance standards or even lead to wear and tear if not checked in time. 

No Check Engine Light (CEL)

When installing an aftermarket downpipe with a less restrictive catalytic converter, it is normal for your Check Engine Light to turn on. Without tuning, your vehicle's computer assumes it is still equipped with the stock CAT, which is not functioning correctly. Thus, the Check Engine Light turns on. Therefore, it is advised to tune your car's downpipe to keep your CEL off.

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