Awe Track Exhaust is a performance exhaust system designed for specific car models

Awe Track Exhaust is an aftermarket exhaust system made by AWE Tuning, a company that manufactures performance parts for sports cars and high-performance vehicles. The Track version is their mid-range option — less aggressive than their full competition exhaust, but more focused on performance than their street-oriented systems. It replaces your factory exhaust with a larger-diameter pipe, different muffler design, and smoother bends to reduce backpressure and increase airflow.

Awe Track systems are built for specific models, most commonly Audi, Porsche, and Volkswagen performance cars. The system bolts onto your existing downpipe or catalytic converter and runs to the rear bumper. Installation typically requires a lift and takes two to four hours at a shop familiar with the brand.

The main trade-off is noise. Awe Track exhausts are significantly louder than factory systems, especially under acceleration. Some states have noise ordinances that can make this system illegal for street use, and many owners report that neighbors and local law enforcement notice the sound when ready.

Key Takeaways

  • Awe Track Exhaust is an aftermarket system that increases engine sound and airflow by replacing the factory muffler and pipes with a larger, smoother design.
  • The system is made for specific car models — check Awe Tuning's website to confirm your vehicle is supported before purchasing.
  • Installation costs between $500 and $1,500 in labor depending on your shop and whether additional work like downpipe removal is needed.
  • Awe Track exhausts produce significantly more noise than factory systems and may violate local noise ordinances or fail vehicle inspections in some states.
  • Horsepower gains are typically 5 to 15 hp depending on your engine and whether you have other modifications like a tune or intake system.

How Awe Track Exhaust changes engine sound and performance

The Awe Track system works by reducing the restrictions in your exhaust path. Your factory muffler is designed to muffle sound and meet emissions standards — it does this by forcing exhaust gas through baffles and chambers that slow the gas down. Awe Track replaces this with a straight-through muffler that lets gas flow faster, which makes the engine louder and reduces backpressure.

Lower backpressure means your engine doesn't have to work as hard to push exhaust out, which frees up a small amount of power. The amount varies based on your engine size, whether you have a turbo, and what other modifications you've made. On a stock engine, expect 5 to 10 hp. On a turbocharged engine with a tune and intake, you might see 15 to 20 hp.

The sound change is the most noticeable effect. Awe Track exhausts produce a deeper, more aggressive tone at idle and a sharp crack on downshifts. Many owners describe it as a "race car" sound. This is intentional — the system is designed for track days and spirited driving, not for daily commuting in residential areas.

Installation, cost, and what to expect at the shop

Awe Track Exhaust systems are bolt-on parts, meaning they attach to your existing exhaust system without welding or cutting. Most installations connect at the downpipe or catalytic converter and run to the rear bumper. The job requires a lift, jack stands, and basic hand tools.

Labor costs range from $500 to $1,500 depending on your vehicle and shop rates. Some cars require removing the rear bumper or heat shielding, which adds time. If your downpipe is rusted or stuck, removal can take longer. The part itself costs between $800 and $1,500 depending on whether you choose a single or dual outlet design.

Before you schedule installation, confirm your specific vehicle is supported. Awe Tuning makes different versions for different platforms — a system for an Audi B9 A4 will not fit a B8 A4. Check the product page on Awe's website or contact the shop to verify fitment.

After installation, your check engine light may come on temporarily because the oxygen sensors detect the change in exhaust flow. This usually clears after a few drive cycles. If it stays on, the shop should scan the code and determine whether a tune is needed.

Noise levels and legal considerations in your state

Awe Track Exhaust systems produce 85 to 95 decibels under acceleration, compared to 75 to 80 decibels for a factory exhaust. That may not sound like a big difference, but decibels are logarithmic — a 10 dB increase is roughly twice as loud to human ears. Most people notice the sound from a block away.

Many states and cities have noise ordinances that set limits on vehicle exhaust noise, typically between 82 and 90 decibels depending on the road type and time of day. Some states measure noise at a specific distance (often 50 feet) and speed. Awe Track exhausts often exceed these limits, which can result in a citation.

Vehicle inspections are another concern. States that perform emissions testing or safety inspections may fail your car if the exhaust is too loud or if the oxygen sensors detect a change in emissions. Some states do not inspect exhaust noise at all. Check your state's inspection requirements before installing.

If you plan to use the exhaust only on the track and keep a factory muffler for street driving, that is a legal option in most places. Some owners buy a removable silencer or resonator that bolts onto the Awe Track outlet for street use.

Awe Track versus other Awe Tuning exhaust options

Awe Tuning makes three main exhaust lines: Street, Track, and Competition. The Street version has a larger muffler with more sound dampening, making it quieter and more street-legal. The Competition version is fully straight-through with no muffler, designed only for track use and producing maximum noise and airflow.

The Track version sits in the middle — louder than Street but quieter than Competition, and with a bit more sound character than a factory system. It is the most popular choice for owners who want noticeable performance and sound but still need to drive on public roads occasionally.

If noise is a concern, the Street version is worth considering. It produces less sound and may pass local noise ordinances, though it still sounds noticeably different from factory. If you only drive on the track, Competition gives you maximum flow and the most aggressive sound.

Maintenance and long-term durability

Awe Track exhausts are stainless steel and designed to last the life of the car with normal use. They do not require special maintenance beyond occasional cleaning. Road salt and moisture can cause minor surface corrosion over time, but this is cosmetic and does not affect function.

The main wear item is the gaskets and clamps that connect the system to your downpipe or catalytic converter. These can loosen over time due to vibration and heat cycling. Check them every 10,000 to 15,000 miles and tighten if needed. A loose connection will cause a rattle or hum.

If you remove the exhaust later to sell the car or switch to a different system, the installation shop can usually remove it without damage. Keep your factory exhaust if you plan to resell the car — many buyers prefer the quieter, stock setup.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will Awe Track Exhaust damage my engine or void my warranty?

The exhaust itself does not damage an engine. However, most manufacturers void the powertrain warranty if you modify the exhaust system, because they cannot control how the modification affects emissions or engine operation. Check your warranty documents or contact your dealer before installation.

Do I need a tune or other modifications for Awe Track to work?

No. Awe Track is a bolt-on system that works on a stock engine. A tune can help you see more horsepower gains, but it is not required. Many owners run Awe Track alone and are satisfied with the sound and slight power increase.

Can I install Awe Track myself?

If you have lift access and exhaust experience, yes. The system is bolt-on and does not require welding. However, most people take it to a shop because removing stuck bolts and aligning the rear outlet correctly takes skill and the right tools.

Will Awe Track pass a vehicle inspection?

It depends on your state. States that inspect noise levels often fail Awe Track exhausts. States that only inspect emissions may pass you if your oxygen sensors are working correctly. Contact your local inspection station or check your state's inspection rules before installing.

What is the difference between Awe Track and a resonator delete?

A resonator delete removes one muffler component and is much cheaper and quieter than Awe Track. Awe Track replaces the entire exhaust system from the downpipe back, producing more sound and more airflow. A resonator delete is a lighter modification if you want some sound without the full commitment.