Hello all. I recently began a search for a new exhaust to get a louder, deeper sound from my 2012 mcs w/ jcw aero kit. I was hoping to be able to get a bolt on cat back exhaust, but its looking like most of the ones I am seeing that are bolt on remove the second catalytic converter, which I would hope to keep on due to being in California, and wanting to keep it so it will be able to pass smog in the future.

I was originally looking at the nm eng cat back exhaust, but then realized it required cutting(however, their downpipe back doesn't but it removes the second cat). Their catback is still at the top of my list, unless someone can offer a better option. I was also checking out the borla ones, but I think the 4" tips might be too large for the jcw bumper(or gp2 rear diffuser which I plan on installing in the next couple of weeks).

I was hoping to get a bolt on so it could be easily put back to the stock exhaust in case something goes wrong and I take it in to the dealer for service. But in that case, it almost seems easier to get a bolt on downpipe back bolt on exhaust in my head, but I think the constant CEL might drive me nuts. Maybe it is just a thought in my head I don't want to have the pipe cut and welded, but will if thats the best option out there.

I would want it loud, but not ricey sounding. Some drone would be ok, but hopefully not overwhelming on regular drives which is what led me to the nm one after reading reviews around the web and on here.

Anyways, any and all advice and feedback will be greatly appreciated and hopefully this post makes as much sense written out as it did in my mind.

thanks in advance,
-Brian

 

Go for an Akrapovic and you'll thank me later for it.

 

I had been looking at that one a lot actually after seeing how highly regarded it is, but I just think sering a constant check engine light might drive me crazy and the much higher price of it is another reason. Haha. I wouldn't mind paying that much, but would prefer to keep it right around $1000 +-150

 

You won't get a CEL from switching out the cat-back.
JCW's only come with one Cat. and still pass smog in Cali.

You won't have a problem with having one cat....the problem is when you have none like myself lol.

 

Thanks for the replies. If I were go to with a downpipe back for a simple bolt on exhaust, is there one that would be recommended besides the akro one? I have tried searching around but seeing mixed results. One I see get mentioned a bit and that seems reasonably priced is the vip exhaust. Anyone have opinions on that setup for a downpipe back?

 

Consider the Borla Cat Back Type S, Borla is a So Cal company so you'll be CARB & Smog compliant.
Sound is deeper but nothing like a boy racer and their fit and finish are great.

 

I have actually looked at the borla models a bit. However, from what I have read I am not sure if the larger 4" tips will fit with the jcw bumper or soon to be gp2 rear diffuser