Best Exhaust for Honda Accord (2019-2024): Top Picks & Buyer’s Guide
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Best Exhaust for Honda Accord (2019-2024): Everything You Need to Know
If you’re searching for the best exhaust for Honda Accord models from 2019 to 2024, you’ve landed in the right place. Whether you’re driving the 1.5T Sport, the 2.0T Touring, or the hybrid variant, a well-chosen exhaust upgrade can transform your Accord from a refined daily driver into something that genuinely excites you every time you turn the key. We’re talking a deeper, more aggressive tone, modest horsepower gains, reduced back pressure, and a look that turns heads in a parking lot. In this guide, we break down the top exhaust systems on the market, explain exactly what to look for, and help you match the right setup to your budget and driving style.
Quick Comparison: Top Exhaust Systems for 2019-2024 Honda Accord
| Brand / System | Type | Pipe Diameter | Sound Level | Est. HP Gain | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Borla S-Type | Cat-Back | 2.5″ | Moderate-Aggressive | 8–12 hp | Performance enthusiasts |
| MagnaFlow Street Series | Cat-Back | 2.25″ | Moderate | 5–9 hp | Daily drivers |
| Flowmaster American Thunder | Cat-Back | 2.25″ | Aggressive | 6–10 hp | Sound-first buyers |
| Invidia Q300 | Cat-Back | 2.5″ | Sporty / Refined | 7–11 hp | JDM / import fans |
| DC Sports Exhaust | Axle-Back | 2.0″ | Mild | 2–5 hp | Budget-conscious buyers |
Our Top Picks: Best Exhaust Systems for the 2019-2024 Honda Accord
1. Borla S-Type Cat-Back Exhaust — Best Overall
Borla is one of the most respected names in the aftermarket exhaust world, and their S-Type cat-back system for the 2019-2024 Honda Accord is a prime example of why. Crafted from T-304 stainless steel with a multi-core straight-through design, this exhaust reduces back pressure noticeably, resulting in improved throttle response and a satisfying deep rumble under hard acceleration — without droning at highway speeds.
Check the Borla S-Type for your Accord [AFFILIATE_LINK:borla-stype-accord-2019-2024]
[CTA_BUTTON:borla-stype-accord-2019-2024:Borla Official]
- Pros: Premium T-304 stainless steel, million-mile warranty, deep tone without excessive drone, bolt-on fit for 2.0T models
- Cons: Premium price point, may require a tune to maximize gains
2. MagnaFlow Street Series Cat-Back — Best for Daily Drivers
MagnaFlow has built a sterling reputation for producing exhausts that enhance sound without turning your commute into an endurance test. The Street Series cat-back for the Accord delivers a clean, polished note — noticeably louder than stock but never obnoxious. The straight-through perforated stainless steel core ensures free-flowing exhaust gases, and the mirror-polished tip looks factory-premium. This is the go-to choice if you want refinement over aggression.
View the MagnaFlow Street Series for Accord [AFFILIATE_LINK:magnaflow-street-accord-2019-2024]
[CTA_BUTTON:magnaflow-street-accord-2019-2024:MagnaFlow Store]
- Pros: Federal emissions-compliant, lifetime warranty, polished tips, minimal cabin drone
- Cons: Sound upgrade is subtle — may disappoint those wanting a loud exhaust
3. Flowmaster American Thunder — Best Sound for the Money
If turning heads is your primary goal, the Flowmaster American Thunder cat-back is hard to beat at its price point. The Delta Flow technology inside the muffler produces that classic Flowmaster rumble — aggressive on startup and during acceleration, settling into a satisfying tone at cruise. Built from 16-gauge aluminized steel (with stainless options available), it’s durable and priced accessibly. Note that some Accord owners report mild interior resonance on the 1.5T — less of an issue on the 2.0T.
Shop Flowmaster American Thunder for Accord [AFFILIATE_LINK:flowmaster-thunder-accord-2019-2024]
[CTA_BUTTON:flowmaster-thunder-accord-2019-2024:Flowmaster Store]
- Pros: Very competitive pricing, aggressive sound, easy bolt-on installation, wide fitment range
- Cons: Some interior drone on 1.5T at certain RPMs, aluminized steel less corrosion-resistant than stainless
4. Invidia Q300 Cat-Back — Best JDM-Style Option
Popular in the import tuner community, the Invidia Q300 threads the needle between sporty aggression and everyday livability beautifully. The Q300’s resonated design filters out annoying high-frequency tones while keeping the mid-range bark that makes a turbocharged four-cylinder sound genuinely exciting. The polished stainless steel tips are a showstopper, and fitment on the 2019-2024 Accord Sport and Touring trims is excellent.
See the Invidia Q300 for your Honda Accord [AFFILIATE_LINK:invidia-q300-accord-2019-2024]
[CTA_BUTTON:invidia-q300-accord-2019-2024:Invidia USA]
- Pros: Resonated design eliminates drone, beautiful tip finish, excellent build quality, great mid-range sound
- Cons: Slightly harder to source than domestic brands, higher price than Flowmaster
5. DC Sports Axle-Back — Best Budget Pick
Not everyone needs a full cat-back system. If you’re working with a tighter budget or simply want a slightly improved exhaust note and a sportier tip without a major investment, the DC Sports axle-back is a smart entry point. Installation is straightforward — often achievable with basic hand tools in under an hour — and the visual upgrade alone is worth it for many Accord owners.
Find the DC Sports Axle-Back for Accord [AFFILIATE_LINK:dc-sports-axleback-accord-2019-2024]
[CTA_BUTTON:dc-sports-axleback-accord-2019-2024:DC Sports]
- Pros: Budget-friendly, simple installation, visual upgrade, mild sound improvement
- Cons: Minimal performance gains, sound change is subtle, less durable than premium stainless options
Honda Accord Exhaust Buying Guide: What to Consider
Cat-Back vs. Axle-Back: Which Is Right for You?
A cat-back exhaust replaces everything from the catalytic converter outlet to the tailpipe — giving you the most significant gains in sound, flow, and performance. An axle-back only replaces the muffler and tailpipe section, offering a subtler upgrade at a lower cost. For the 2019-2024 Honda Accord, we recommend a cat-back system for anyone serious about performance or sound improvement.
1.5T vs. 2.0T: Does It Matter?
Yes — fitment differs between the base 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder and the sport-oriented 2.0T. Always verify compatibility before purchasing. Most premium brands offer separate SKUs for each engine. The 2.0T responds more dramatically to exhaust upgrades due to its higher baseline output and larger turbocharger.
Material Matters: Stainless vs. Aluminized Steel
- T-304 Stainless Steel: Best corrosion resistance, longest lifespan, highest cost — Borla and MagnaFlow specialize here
- Aluminized Steel: More affordable, decent durability in mild climates, but can rust in salt-heavy environments
Sound Level: Finding Your Sweet Spot
Think honestly about how you use your Accord. If it’s primarily a family commuter, a moderate sound level (MagnaFlow, Invidia Q300) keeps peace at home and on long drives. If weekend canyon runs are your thing, a more aggressive tone (Borla S-Type, Flowmaster American Thunder) rewards hard driving without penalty.
Will an Exhaust Void My Warranty?
Under the Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act, a dealer cannot void your warranty simply for installing an aftermarket exhaust — unless they can prove the part caused specific damage. That said, always check with your dealer and keep your stock exhaust for any warranty-related service visits.
Brief Installation Overview
Installing a cat-back exhaust on a 2019-2024 Honda Accord is a manageable DIY job for someone with moderate mechanical confidence. Here’s the general process:
- Lift and secure the vehicle on jack stands or ramps — never work under a car on a floor jack alone
- Let the exhaust cool completely before touching anything
- Spray all hangers and bolts with penetrating oil (PB Blaster works great) 30 minutes before starting
- Disconnect the stock exhaust at the cat outlet flange and slide it off the rubber hangers
- Hang the new system starting from the front, working toward the rear — do not fully tighten anything until all sections are aligned
- Check tip alignment through the bumper cutout before final torque
- Start the car and check for leaks at all joints before driving
Estimated time: 1.5–3 hours. Difficulty: Intermediate. Special tools needed: Breaker bar, exhaust hanger removal tool.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will an aftermarket exhaust add horsepower to my 2019-2024 Honda Accord?
Yes, a quality cat-back exhaust system reduces exhaust back pressure, allowing the engine to breathe more efficiently. On the 2.0T Accord, expect gains of 7–12 hp depending on the system. The 1.5T typically sees slightly lower gains of 5–9 hp. For maximum results, pairing the exhaust with an intake and tune is recommended.
Is the 2019-2024 Honda Accord 1.5T fitment the same as the 2.0T?
No. The 1.5T and 2.0T Accord have different exhaust routing and pipe diameters. Always confirm your engine type (check your VIN or door jamb sticker) and select the correct fitment when ordering. Most reputable brands like Borla and MagnaFlow offer separate part numbers for each engine variant.
Will an aftermarket exhaust cause my Accord to fail emissions testing?
A cat-back exhaust does not remove or alter the catalytic converter, so it should not cause emissions test failures. However, if you’re in a state with visual inspection requirements (such as California), verify the system is CARB-compliant. Always check your local regulations before purchasing.
How loud will my Accord get with an aftermarket exhaust?
It depends on the system. MagnaFlow Street Series adds a subtle, refined tone — noticeable but not intrusive. Flowmaster American Thunder is significantly louder and more aggressive. The Invidia Q300 and Borla S-Type fall in the middle — sporty under acceleration but refined at cruise. Sound is subjective, so look for YouTube sound clips specific to the Accord platform before buying.
Does the Honda Accord Hybrid support aftermarket exhaust upgrades?
The 2019-2024 Accord Hybrid uses an Atkinson-cycle 2.0L engine in a complex hybrid powertrain with different exhaust routing than the traditional variants. Aftermarket exhaust options are very limited for the Hybrid. Most cat-back systems on the market are designed for the 1.5T and 2.0T non-hybrid models. Contact the manufacturer directly to confirm Hybrid fitment before purchasing.
Final Verdict: Which Exhaust Should You Buy for Your 2019-2024 Honda Accord?
After reviewing the field, here’s our quick-reference summary:
- Best Overall: Borla S-Type — premium quality, lifetime warranty, perfect balance of sound and performance
- Best Daily Driver: MagnaFlow Street Series — refined, emissions-compliant, built to last
- Best Sound: Flowmaster American Thunder — most aggressive tone, best value for sound-focused buyers
- Best JDM Style: Invidia Q300 — drone-free, beautiful finish, sport-tuned sound profile
- Best Budget: DC Sports Axle-Back — simple, affordable, great starter upgrade
No matter which direction you go, upgrading the exhaust on your 2019-2024 Honda Accord is one of the most satisfying modifications you can make — delivering a tangible improvement in both driving experience and personality. Take stock of your priorities (sound, performance, budget, or daily usability), match them to the right system above, and enjoy every drive a little more than you did before.