I am thinking about deleting the muffler on my 2005 mazda 3s and attaching a straight pipe to fill, but I have been told by service people at shops that this would be too loud. I looked at youtube and found videos that had this done and it sounded fine. Anyone have any insight or is there anyone in san diego that has had this done? thanks.

 

And your in California?? Are you kidding me?
Yes it's loud. Not so much at idle but as soon as you step on the thin pedal.
We have a guy that came to one of our meets w/straight through, an '05 HB, and it was the loudest thing in 20 blocks.
Especially in Cali, you would be seriously looking for trouble, my friend... not to mention it's illegal and will not pass inspection.

 

really?!, wow....thanks for saving me some trouble then.

 

So what is the cheap answer for more sound?

I checked out the Magnaflow Exhaust Systems and they are out of my range at this time, but I can't stand how quiet the stock exhaust system is on my 3!

Is it a waste of money to only buy the muffler and tip?

 

There are a few cat-back systems that use Magnaflow mufflers, but their own bent mild steel tubing (vs. stainless steel.) These are cheaper... usually under $300.
I recently saw the name of one of these companiesbut can't remember it. If anybody knows what I'm talking about, please speak up.
You could also buy a correct muffler and the tailpipe tip of your choice from one of the companies and have the system made for you@ a local exhaust shop.
If you are not turbochargedmay I suggest you stay at or under 2-3/8" pipe... 2.25" being ideal for most applications

But again, from everything I've read or heard, Cali isVERY strict, the strictest!! They don't like people messing with their cars these days.You must be very careful if you want to comply w/the law there.

 

Look on Ebay, there are some Cat Back systems on there that had Magnaflows on them, but they were still pretty spendy.

 

Thanks for the info guys.

I will check into both options.

I have an 08 Mazda 3 Hatchback and yes I am new to all of this... so is this the correct muffler?

Magnaflow Part# 14829 2.25 Inlet 7x4 diameter tip5"x8" oval


Thanks again!

 

i think the best way to go may be an AEM intake, they had some good engine sound and a little torque for $250 shipped. It's a quality part so you will not have to worry about it lasting as well.

 

The only thing an intake gets you is a little induction sound. He's looking to change the sound of the exhaust.

I was very happy with the sound of the Mazdaspeed exhaust I had on my 3.

 

that's true....what type of exhasut did you have on your 3?