Best Exhaust Systems for Chevy Equinox (2019-2024): Top Brands Compared
DTP Parts is reader-supported. When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission at no extra cost to you.
Affiliate Disclosure: dtpparts.com is a participant in affiliate advertising programs designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by linking to partner retailers. We may earn a commission when you click links and make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.
Finding the Right Exhaust System for Your Chevy Equinox (2019-2024)
If you’re shopping for a replacement or performance exhaust system for your Chevy Equinox (2019-2024), you already know the struggle — there are dozens of options online, and not all of them are worth your money. Whether your stock exhaust has rusted out, developed a leak, or you simply want a deeper, more satisfying exhaust note from your crossover SUV, upgrading your Equinox’s exhaust is one of the most impactful changes you can make. In this guide, we break down the top three brands — Walker, MagnaFlow, and Borla — so you can make a confident, informed decision before you buy.
The 2019-2024 Chevy Equinox is available with either the 1.5L turbocharged four-cylinder or the 2.0L turbocharged four-cylinder engine. Fitment matters here — always confirm the engine and trim level when ordering any exhaust component. Let’s dive in.
Head-to-Head Comparison: Top Exhaust Options for the 2019-2024 Chevy Equinox
| Feature | Walker OEM-Style Exhaust | MagnaFlow Direct-Fit | Borla Cat-Back System |
|---|---|---|---|
| Type | OEM Replacement | Direct-Fit Performance | Cat-Back Performance |
| Material | Aluminized Steel | Stainless Steel | T-304 Stainless Steel |
| Sound Level | Stock / Quiet | Mild Improvement | Deep, Sporty Tone |
| Warranty | Limited Lifetime | Limited Lifetime | Million-Mile Warranty |
| Install Difficulty | Easy (bolt-on) | Easy (bolt-on) | Moderate (DIY-friendly) |
| Best For | Budget-conscious owners | Balanced upgrade seekers | Performance enthusiasts |
| Price Range | $80–$150 | $200–$350 | $500–$800 |
Detailed Breakdown: Each Exhaust Option for the Chevy Equinox
1. Walker OEM-Style Exhaust — Best Budget Replacement
When your stock exhaust gives out and you just need a reliable, hassle-free fix, Walker is one of the most trusted names in the OEM-replacement exhaust market. Their direct-fit components for the 2019-2024 Chevy Equinox are engineered to match factory specifications exactly, making installation straightforward for a home mechanic or quick for a shop.
Walker uses aluminized steel construction on most of their replacement pipes and mufflers — it’s not as corrosion-resistant as stainless steel, but it’s more than adequate for most driving climates. If you live in a road-salt-heavy region, keep this in mind. You won’t get a sportier sound or performance bump, but you will get your Equinox back to factory-quiet operation in a cost-effective way.
- Pros: Affordable, exact OEM fitment, widely available, easy bolt-on install
- Cons: Aluminized steel (not as durable as stainless), no performance gain, basic sound
Best for: Equinox owners dealing with a blown-out or rusted exhaust who want a quick, budget-friendly fix without any frills.
👉 Shop Walker Exhaust for Chevy Equinox [CTA_BUTTON:walker-equinox-exhaust:Walker Exhaust]
2. MagnaFlow Direct-Fit Exhaust — Best All-Around Upgrade
MagnaFlow is the sweet spot between budget replacement and full performance upgrade. Their direct-fit stainless steel mufflers and cat-back systems are designed to bolt right up to the 2019-2024 Chevy Equinox without any cutting, welding, or modification — and the quality jump over Walker is immediately noticeable.
Built from 409 or 304 stainless steel depending on the specific component, MagnaFlow exhaust parts are built to last significantly longer than aluminized alternatives. They’re also known for their deep, clean exhaust note — not loud or aggressive, but noticeably more refined than stock. For a crossover SUV like the Equinox, this is the perfect tone — confident without being obnoxious.
MagnaFlow backs their products with a limited lifetime warranty, and their fitment database is extensive, covering both the 1.5L and 2.0L Equinox engine variants across model years 2019 through 2024.
- Pros: Stainless steel durability, improved exhaust note, direct-fit install, strong brand reputation
- Cons: Higher cost than Walker, not a full performance system
Best for: Equinox owners who want a meaningful quality upgrade with a cleaner sound and longer service life, without going full performance.
👉 Shop MagnaFlow Exhaust for Chevy Equinox [CTA_BUTTON:magnaflow-equinox-exhaust:MagnaFlow Exhaust]
3. Borla Cat-Back Exhaust System — Best Performance Option
If you want the absolute best exhaust upgrade available for your 2019-2024 Chevy Equinox — and you’re willing to invest — Borla’s cat-back systems are in a class of their own. Borla is famous among performance enthusiasts for their legendary million-mile warranty and aircraft-quality T-304 stainless steel construction that simply doesn’t rust.
A cat-back system replaces everything from the catalytic converter back — the mid-pipe, resonator (if applicable), muffler, and tip. On the turbocharged Equinox engines, Borla’s mandrel-bent tubing helps reduce backpressure, which can translate to modest horsepower and torque improvements on top of the dramatically improved exhaust tone. Borla offers different sound profiles (S-Type for moderate tone, ATAK for aggressive) — for an SUV like the Equinox, most owners prefer the S-Type for a sporty but civilized character.
- Pros: Million-mile warranty, T-304 stainless steel, performance gains possible, premium exhaust note, multiple sound options
- Cons: Significantly higher price point, may be overkill for daily drivers
Best for: Equinox owners who want the last exhaust they’ll ever buy, with genuine performance benefits and a premium driving experience.
👉 Shop Borla Cat-Back for Chevy Equinox [CTA_BUTTON:borla-equinox-catback:Borla Exhaust]
Which Exhaust Should You Buy for Your Chevy Equinox?
Here’s the honest answer — it depends entirely on what you’re trying to accomplish:
- Your exhaust failed and you just need it fixed fast and cheap? Go with Walker. It’s reliable, affordable, and gets the job done without drama.
- You want a quality upgrade with better sound and longer life? MagnaFlow is the sweet spot — stainless steel, improved tone, and a warranty that backs it up.
- You want the best of the best and don’t mind spending more? Borla is the premium choice, built to outlast the vehicle with a genuinely exciting exhaust note.
For the majority of 2019-2024 Chevy Equinox owners, MagnaFlow hits the best balance of price, quality, and performance. It’s a genuine step up from stock without the premium pricing of Borla — and that stainless steel construction means you likely won’t have to do this job again for a very long time.
Frequently Asked Questions: Chevy Equinox Exhaust (2019-2024)
Q: Will aftermarket exhaust void my 2019-2024 Chevy Equinox warranty?
A: Under the Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act, a dealership cannot void your warranty simply because you installed an aftermarket exhaust. However, if the aftermarket part is found to have directly caused a specific failure, that component and related repairs may not be covered. Always keep your OEM parts if you want to swap back before warranty service.
Q: How hard is it to replace the exhaust on a Chevy Equinox?
A: For a direct-fit replacement like Walker or MagnaFlow, it’s a straightforward job — typically 1-2 hours for a DIYer with basic tools. You’ll need a floor jack, jack stands, penetrating oil for rusted bolts, and basic hand tools. A cat-back system like Borla may take 2-3 hours depending on experience.
Q: Does the 1.5L and 2.0L Equinox use different exhaust parts?
A: Yes — the 1.5T and 2.0T engines use different exhaust configurations. Always filter by engine size when searching for exhaust components to ensure proper fitment. Most major brands like MagnaFlow and Borla list fitment by engine displacement.
Q: Will an aftermarket exhaust make my Equinox louder?
A: It depends on the product. Walker OEM replacements maintain near-stock sound levels. MagnaFlow adds a mild, refined tone. Borla (especially ATAK) will add a noticeably deeper, sportier exhaust note. None of these will make your Equinox obnoxiously loud — it’s still a crossover SUV.
Q: Can I get a performance gain from a new exhaust on my Equinox?
A: Modest gains are possible, particularly with a full cat-back system on the turbocharged engines, where reducing exhaust backpressure allows the turbo to spool more efficiently. Don’t expect dramatic numbers, but a well-designed system like Borla can free up a few horsepower and improve throttle response.