The Most Impactful Upgrade You Can Do in an Afternoon
An exhaust swap is the single best bang-for-buck mod on a Camaro SS. A quality cat-back adds up to 15–20 hp at the wheels, unlocks the LT1's genuine V8 character, and transforms the driving experience every single time you drive it. The factory exhaust is intentionally quiet — a well-chosen aftermarket system undoes all of that. The install is beginner-accessible: no welding, no cutting, no tuning required.
This guide covers a full cat-back install from start to finish. Before buying, use the Fitment Tool to confirm the system you're considering is compatible with your specific model year, transmission, and trim level. And if you haven't picked your system yet, start with our Best Exhaust for Camaro SS guide.
Tools & Materials You Need
Gather everything before you start. Mid-job runs to the store kill momentum and let parts cool down wrong.
Floor jack + jack stands (or lift)
Never rely on a floor jack alone — stands are non-negotiable
3/8" & 1/2" drive socket sets
10mm, 13mm, 15mm most used
Flex-head ratchet + 6" extension
Mid-pipe hardware requires reach around the tunnel
Penetrating oil (PB Blaster or Kroil)
Apply the night before — not the morning of
Breaker bar
For seized exhaust bolts — do not skip
Safety glasses + heat-resistant gloves
Exhaust gets extremely hot even hours after driving
Torque wrench
Flange bolts: 26 ft-lbs / Hanger hardware: 18 ft-lbs
Wire brush or die grinder
For cleaning flange faces before seating new gaskets
Safety First — Read Before Starting
- Never work under a vehicle supported only by a floor jack
- Let the exhaust fully cool — minimum 2 hours after last drive
- Work in a ventilated area — exhaust systems off-gas during install and first heat cycle
- Keep a fire extinguisher nearby when doing any exhaust work near the fuel system
Make Sure Your Exhaust Fits Before You Buy
Some systems are year-specific or differ between A8 and M6 transmissions. Confirm compatibility first.
Step-by-Step Install Guide
Follow these steps in order. Don't skip the prep steps — they're what prevents broken hardware.
Total Time Estimate
Top 3 Exhaust Systems for Camaro SS
Each of these fits the 2016–2024 Camaro SS 6.2L and installs with the steps above. Full comparison:
See the full Best Exhaust for Camaro SS guide →
CORSA Sport Cat-Back
Cat-Back — Valved
Borla S-Type Cat-Back
Cat-Back — Straight-through
Flowmaster American Thunder Cat-Back
Cat-Back — Delta Flow
Best Exhaust Guide
Haven't Picked Your Exhaust Yet?
Our full roundup of the best exhaust systems for Camaro SS — ranked by sound, power gain, and install difficulty.
Torque Specs & Quick Reference
| Hardware | Torque Spec | Socket Size | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Exhaust flange bolts | 26 ft-lbs | 15mm | Cross-pattern, new gaskets required |
| Hanger bracket bolts | 18 ft-lbs | 13mm | Check rubber isolator condition |
| Mid-pipe slip clamps | 35 ft-lbs | 13mm | Stainless OEM clamp preferred |
| Tip clamp hardware | Hand-tight + 1/4 turn | 10mm | Align tips before final torque |
| Header-to-block bolts | 18 ft-lbs | 13mm | Header installs only — use anti-seize |
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions before swapping exhaust on your Camaro SS.
More Camaro SS Guides
Exhaust, headers, intakes, and more for Camaro builds.