Honda Civic With Subaru Exhaust: A Customization Guide

Nov 16, 2025 by Alex Braham 55 views

Hey car enthusiasts, ever thought about giving your Honda Civic a unique twist? Well, you're in for a treat! Today, we're diving deep into the world of custom car mods, specifically, the exciting combination of a Honda Civic and a Subaru exhaust system. This is an awesome way to not only change the sound of your ride but also potentially enhance its performance. I'll guide you through everything you need to know, from why this is a cool idea to the nitty-gritty of making it happen, while keeping things simple and fun. So, buckle up, because we're about to explore the world of car customization like never before!

Why Combine a Honda Civic with a Subaru Exhaust?

So, why would anyone want to put a Subaru exhaust on a Honda Civic? Well, there are several sweet reasons, my friends. First off, it's all about the sound. Subaru engines, especially their boxer engines, have a distinct, throaty rumble that many car lovers adore. By swapping your Civic's exhaust for a Subaru's, you're essentially giving your car a new voice – one that's likely to turn heads. It’s a fantastic way to stand out from the crowd and show off your personal style. Imagine cruising down the street with a unique exhaust note that sets your Civic apart from the rest. The sound is often deeper and more aggressive, giving your car a more sporty and powerful feel. The sound of your car is an expression of yourself!

Another big reason is the potential for performance gains. While the exhaust system alone might not offer huge horsepower increases, a well-designed exhaust can improve exhaust flow, which in turn can help your engine breathe easier. This can result in slightly improved acceleration and overall engine efficiency. Many Subaru exhaust systems are designed for performance, which means they might have larger piping and less restrictive mufflers than the stock Civic exhaust. It's like giving your engine a breath of fresh air, allowing it to work more efficiently. This is especially true if you are already thinking about other performance upgrades, like a cold air intake or ECU tune. Adding a Subaru exhaust can be a crucial step in optimizing your car’s overall performance setup. It can be a cost effective mod as well, and you can buy used exhaust systems for both Subaru and Honda.

Furthermore, the aftermarket world for Subaru exhaust systems is vast and varied. You can find exhausts made from different materials, like stainless steel, which look great and last a long time. They also come in different styles and designs, so you can tailor the look and sound to your liking. The availability of high-quality, readily available Subaru exhaust systems provides a solid foundation for your Civic modification project. You're not just limited to what's available for your Civic. You're opening up a whole new world of choices and customization options. There's so much potential when you mix and match parts from different car manufacturers. Why settle for the ordinary when you can create something extraordinary? It's all about making your Civic truly your own. Customization is all about personalization! You can find many exhaust systems for your Honda Civic or your Subaru. You can buy the ones that you like the most, and try to install them yourself! There are so many YouTube videos that can help you with the installation process!

Compatibility: Will It Actually Fit?

Now, before you get too excited, let's talk about the practical side of things: compatibility. Will a Subaru exhaust actually fit your Honda Civic? The short answer is, it depends. It's not always a straightforward bolt-on process, so you'll likely need some modifications. The good news is, it's often doable with the right know-how and tools. You can find multiple examples of people who did it! The main challenges you'll face are related to the exhaust hangers and the flange connections. Subaru and Honda use different systems, so the hangers may not line up perfectly with your Civic's chassis. You’ll probably need to modify the hangers on the exhaust or the Civic, or use aftermarket hangers to get a good fit. This is not so bad, since this is a popular mod, you can find a lot of information online about that. You can also consult a mechanic that is experienced in that sort of work.

Then there's the flange connection, which is the point where the exhaust system connects to your car's catalytic converter or downpipe. The flanges on a Subaru exhaust might not match those on a Honda Civic. This usually means you’ll need to do some welding. You could weld the Subaru exhaust flange to your Civic’s downpipe, or you might need to use an adapter. Welding can be tricky if you're not experienced, so it’s often a good idea to have a professional do this part of the job. You can find videos on YouTube that can help you with the entire installation, even with the welding and the adapter process. Remember that with a little research and preparation, you can be ready for anything!

Another important aspect is the exhaust diameter. Make sure the diameter of the Subaru exhaust piping is appropriate for your Civic's engine and any other performance modifications you've made. Too large or too small can hurt performance. While it's tempting to go for the biggest exhaust possible, it's not always the best choice. Consider your engine's displacement, and the other modifications you’ve done. If you are not sure, consult a mechanic, and they will tell you what size of piping you need for your Honda Civic.

Step-by-Step Guide: Making the Swap

Alright, ready to roll up your sleeves? Here's a general guide on how to install a Subaru exhaust on your Honda Civic. Remember that this is a general overview, and the specific steps may vary depending on the models of Civic and Subaru exhaust you choose. Always refer to the manufacturer's instructions for your specific exhaust system, and consult a professional mechanic if you are unsure about any steps. Safety first, guys!

1. Gather Your Tools and Parts:

Subaru Exhaust System: Obviously! Make sure it fits your Civic. Research which models are most compatible. Don’t hesitate to contact the sellers to make sure that it is going to fit your car.
Tools: You’ll need basic tools, such as wrenches, sockets, a jack and jack stands, and possibly a welder or access to one. Also, remember safety glasses and gloves!
Adapter or Flanges: This will depend on the exhaust system you are using.
Exhaust Hangers: You may need to modify the existing ones or purchase aftermarket ones to help with the installation.
Penetrating Oil: To loosen any stubborn bolts.

2. Prepare Your Civic:

Safety First: Disconnect the negative terminal of your car battery to prevent any electrical mishaps.
Lift the Car: Safely jack up your Civic and secure it on jack stands. Make sure it's on a level surface.
Spray Penetrating Oil: Apply penetrating oil to any bolts or connections that might be rusty or difficult to remove. This will help you a lot with the removal process.

3. Remove the Old Exhaust:

Unbolt the Exhaust: Start by removing the bolts that connect your Civic's existing exhaust to the catalytic converter or downpipe.
Disconnect the Hangers: Carefully disconnect the exhaust hangers from the rubber mounts. They can be a bit tricky, but with some wiggling and leverage, you should be able to get them off.
Remove the Exhaust: Once everything is disconnected, gently remove the old exhaust system from the car.

4. Install the Subaru Exhaust:

Test Fit: Before doing anything else, test-fit the Subaru exhaust to see where the modifications need to be made. Check how the hangers align and where you need to make adjustments.
Modify the Hangers: Adjust or replace the exhaust hangers so the Subaru exhaust will hang properly from your Civic’s chassis. You might need to bend them, weld them, or use aftermarket hangers for a perfect fit.
Connect the Flange: If you need to use an adapter or weld, do this now. This is a crucial step for a secure connection.
Bolt It Up: Once everything is aligned, carefully bolt the Subaru exhaust to your Civic.

5. Final Checks:

Double-Check: Make sure all bolts are tight and everything is securely connected.
Start the Engine: Start your Civic and listen for any leaks. If you hear any hissing sounds, it means there's a leak, and you need to tighten the bolts or re-weld the connection.
Take it for a Test Drive: Go for a short drive to make sure the exhaust is performing well and sounds the way you want. Check it again for leaks after driving.

Potential Issues and How to Solve Them

Let’s be honest, guys, things don’t always go perfectly the first time. Here are some common problems you might run into when installing a Subaru exhaust on your Honda Civic and how to deal with them. This is part of the process, and you should not be afraid of making mistakes. It's a great opportunity to learn something new.

Mismatched Flanges: This is one of the most common issues. If the flanges don’t match, you'll need to either purchase an adapter or have the flanges welded together. Welding will provide the most secure connection.
Hanger Alignment: The hangers might not line up perfectly. You can often solve this by modifying the existing hangers or using aftermarket hangers that can be adjusted. Sometimes you'll need to bend the hangers, but that’s not something to worry about.
Leaks: Leaks can be annoying. If you hear hissing sounds, double-check all connections and tighten the bolts. If the leak persists, you might need to re-weld the connection.
Exhaust Scraping: Make sure that the exhaust system has enough ground clearance. If it's too low, it might scrape on speed bumps or potholes. You might need to adjust the hangers or consider a different exhaust system.
Check Engine Light: Sometimes, a change in the exhaust system can trigger the check engine light. This might be due to changes in exhaust flow or the position of sensors. If this happens, you might need to get your car’s ECU tuned or use a spacer to move the sensors out of the exhaust flow.

Legal Considerations and Safety Tips

Before you start, it’s also important to consider the legal and safety aspects of modifying your exhaust. Here’s what you need to know:

Local Laws: Check your local laws regarding exhaust modifications. Some areas have strict noise regulations, so make sure your Subaru exhaust meets those requirements. It is very important that you check the laws in your area, and make sure that you do not break the law!
Emissions: Changing your exhaust might affect your car’s emissions. If your area has emissions testing, make sure your car still passes after the modification. If it’s not legal, you might get a fine!
Safety: Always wear safety glasses and gloves when working on your car. Work in a well-ventilated area, especially if you are welding or using any chemicals. Always use jack stands to support your car when it’s lifted. Remember to disconnect the negative terminal of your battery before working on the exhaust system.
Professional Help: If you're not comfortable with any part of the installation process, don't hesitate to seek professional help. A mechanic with experience in exhaust modifications can save you a lot of time and potential headaches. Having an expert on your side, can make a huge difference, so don’t forget that you are not alone.

Conclusion: Making Your Civic Unique

So, there you have it, guys. Putting a Subaru exhaust on your Honda Civic is a cool project that can enhance your car's sound, potentially boost performance, and give it a unique look. While it might involve some modifications, the results can be well worth the effort. It's an awesome way to personalize your ride and showcase your car style! It’s all about creating something that’s special and personalized to you. It's a great experience, and if you are a car enthusiast, it's something that you should definitely try.

Remember to do your research, take your time, and follow safety precautions. Whether you're a seasoned car modifier or a newbie, this is a rewarding project that can set your Civic apart from the crowd. So, why wait? Start your research today, and get ready to transform your Honda Civic into something truly special! With a bit of elbow grease and a lot of passion, you can create a Civic that is both stylish and high-performing. Go for it and make your Civic one of a kind!