DAPCO Tyre & Auto - Suspension, Brakes & Exhaust Specialists > Exhausts > Custom Exhaust Maintenance Made Easy

Custom Exhaust Maintenance Made Easy

Posted In: Exhausts

From rugged coastlines to kicking up dust on red dirt tracks, driving in Western Australia can be tough on your vehicle and your exhaust system. 

Whether you want fuel efficiency for your work vehicle, a performance boost or clearance for your 4WD, a deeper note for your sports car, a custom exhaust is a popular upgrade for any car enthusiast. But just like any setup, it needs proper maintenance to keep running and sounding its best.

Here’s what you need to know to maintain your custom exhaust, the signs it’s wearing out, and how to keep it in top shape, no matter what you drive.

How Western Australia’s Environment Impacts Your Exhaust

Coastal salt air:

With most of WA’s urban area sitting right next to the ocean, the salty air can speed up corrosion, especially on mild steel systems. Even stainless steel can deteriorate over time.

Red dust and dirt roads:

Out in the Wheatbelt or Pilbara, your undercarriage takes a real hammering. Dust gets into everything, and constant vibrations from rough roads can rattle fittings loose or cause cracks.

Extreme heat:

Our summers regularly push temperatures well into the high 30s and 40s, and when you’re towing, off-roading, or idling in traffic, the heat under your vehicle can climb fast. This kind of thermal stress can accelerate wear and fatigue your exhausts metal over time, especially on high-performance set-ups that already run hot. 

5 Maintenance Tips to Keep Your Custom Exhaust in Top Condition

1. Give it a rinse

After going to the beach or driving on country tracks, hose off the underbody of your car, especially if you’ve been in salty, sandy, or dusty areas to prevent corrosion and build-up.

2. Check for rust and cracks

Look around the welds, joins, and hangers of your exhaust. While surface rust can be normal, any bubbling or flaking means trouble.

3. Listen for changes

Notice your exhaust sounds louder, raspier, or has a rattle? It could be a cracked muffler, broken hanger, or loose heat shield.

4. Tighten fittings

Vibration from corrugated roads can loosen bolts and brackets. A quick underbody check every couple of months can save you bigger issues later on.

5. Make time for regular inspections

Make sure to check your exhaust during routine inspections, especially before and after long trips or towing heavy loads.

5 Signs your exhaust has past its prime

If you’ve had your exhaust system a while or you’re pushing it hard with off-road trips or towing heavy loads, here are some signs that might mean it’s time for an upgrade:

  1. Struggling with performance (loss of power or sluggish acceleration)
  2. Unusual exhaust smells inside the cab (could mean a leak)
  3. Fuel economy drops
  4. Noticeable rust or visible holes
  5. Excessive noise or clunking when driving

If you’re constantly needing repairs, it might be more cost-effective to replace the system with a better suited setup, such as switching from a mild steel to stainless, or adjusting the layout for better clearance and airflow.

Exhaust Care Made Easy

A custom exhaust is a smart upgrade for Western Australia’s driving conditions, but it’s not a “set and forget” modification. Dust, salt, and rough roads can wear down your exhaust quicker than you think. With a bit of regular maintenance, a good eye (or ear) for signs of wear, you’ll get the most out of your investment.

Why choose DAPCO Bunbury for your local custom exhaust install

Thinking about upgrading to a custom exhaust? At DAPCO Bunbury, we specialise in design and install of high-quality exhaust systems that improve performance, efficiency, and tone, all tailored to your vehicle.

Whether it’s a heavy-duty ute that needs to handle tough workdays, a 4WD built for serious off-roading, or an old-school weekend cruiser that deserves a bit of rumble, we’ve got you covered. Every system is built with performance, reliability, and quality in mind.

Need advice or have questions? Contact us today and let’s talk about the right exhaust setup for your vehicle.

 

Custom Exhaust Frequently Asked Questions

How often should I check my exhaust system?

We recommend giving your exhaust a visual inspection every couple of months, especially if you’ve been driving in rough, dusty, or coastal areas. Look for rust, loose fittings, or any signs of damage.

How do I know if my exhaust has a leak?

Common signs include a louder than usual exhaust note, a ticking or hissing sound when the engine’s running, a strong exhaust smell inside the cabin, or reduced fuel efficiency and performance.

What causes rust on my exhaust, and can I prevent it?

Rust is usually caused by moisture, salt (especially from coastal air or off-road beach driving), and dirt build-up. Prevent it by rinsing under your car regularly and, if possible, parking in a dry area.

Is it normal for a custom exhaust to be louder over time?

Some increase in noise is normal as mufflers age and settle, but a sudden change could mean a crack, loose fitting, or worn-out component. Best to get it checked if the sound changes noticeably.

What’s the difference between stainless and mild steel exhausts when it comes to maintenance?

Stainless steel is more resistant to rust and usually lasts longer with less maintenance. Mild steel is more prone to corrosion and will need more frequent inspections, especially in Western Australia’s coastal or dusty conditions.

Will towing or heavy loads affect my exhaust?

Definitely. Towing increases engine strain and exhaust temperatures, which can wear components faster, especially on performance setups. Make sure your system is designed to handle the heat and keep an eye on it after big trips.