Best Exhaust for a 4.8 Silverado or Sierra Truck

best exhaust for 4.8 silverado
Photo courtesy Nenad Stojkovic via flickr. Used under a CC BY 2.0 license.

The best exhaust for 4.8 Silverados can play a critical role in the performance of your truck and can help improve fuel efficiency, reduce emissions, and increase horsepower.

In this article, we will be discussing the different types of exhausts available, the benefits of each, and our top picks for the best exhaust for a 4.8 Silverado.

Bestseller No. 1
Flowmaster Super 44 Mandrel-Bent Aluminized Dual Truck Exhaust Kit w/Chrome Tips for Silverado, Sierra, F-Series & Ram
  • Performance Dual Exhaust for Ram, Ford F-Series, Silverado & Sierra trucks
  • Single 3 inch inlet /Dual 2.5 inch outlet Flowmaster Super 44 Muffler
  • Two 2.5 inch high-flow mandrel-bent tailpipes, cut and swedged
  • Two 3.5 inch x18 inch WELD-ON angle-cut chrome tips
Bestseller No. 2
MBRP Exhaust S5001409 Muffler Bypass Fits 14-21 Compatible with/Replacement for Sierra 1500 Silverado 1500
  • Designed to deliver trouble-free, consistent performance
  • Right for your vehicle and lifestyle
  • Made from high-quality materials for ultimate durability
  • Manufactured to meet or exceed strict quality requirements
  • If you have any questions or need fitment information for your vehicle, please contact with us
Bestseller No. 3
Auto Dynasty 4 Inches Rolled Muffler Tip Catback Exhaust System Compatible with Silverado Sierra 1500 Crew/Extended Cab Short Bed 07-13
  • Made of High Quality 304 Stainless Steel with Computerized Mandrel-Bends for Strength and Durability
  • TIG welded CNC Machine Flange for Resistance Against Pressure and Corrosion
  • 3" OD Inlet / 3" OD Main piping
  • 4" OD Round Diagonal Cut Muffler Tip
  • Dyno Proven to Instantly Increases 15 to 25 Horsepower or Low End Torque
SaleBestseller No. 4
Rough Country Dual Cat-Back Exhaust for 19-24 Chevy/GMC Sierra |5.3L - 96011
  • Dual Cat Back Design with Rear Exit.
  • Corrosion Resistant 409 Stainless Steel | 16 Gauge Tubing | 409 Stainless Black Muffler and Clamps.
  • Dual Wall Stainless Steel 304 Black Tips | Can Retain your OEM Dual Tips.
  • Installs into OEM Hangers | No Welding | Easy at Home Installation.
  • Backed by Rough Country's Limited Lifetime Replacement Warranty.
Bestseller No. 5
Rough Country Dual Cat-Back Exhaust for 2014-2018 Chevy/GMC 1500 | 5.3L - 96007
  • Dual Cat Back Design w/ Side Exit.
  • Corrosion Resistant 409 Stainless Steel | 16 Gauge Tubing.
  • Dual Wall Stainless Steel 304 Black Tips.
  • Installs into OEM Hangers | No Welding | Easy at Home Installation.
  • Backed by Rough Country's Limited Lifetime Replacement Warranty.
Bestseller No. 6
SaleBestseller No. 7
DNA MOTORING CBE-CS09-4853L-4DR Stainless Steel Cat Back Exhaust System [Compatible with 07-13 Silverado 1500/07-13 Sierra 1500 Crew/Extended Cab Short Bed]
  • 【FITMENT】Compatible with 07-13 Chevy Silverado 1500 Crew/Extended Cab Short Bed; Compatible with 07-13 GMC Sierra 1500 Crew/Extended Cab Short Bed
  • 【Quality Construction】Made of High Quality T-409 Stainless Steel with Computerized Mandrel-Bends for Strength and Durability. TIG welded CNC machine flange for resistance against pressure and corrosion.
  • 【Enhance Performence】Dyno proven to instantly increases 15 - 25 horsepower / low end torque. Aggressive deep and smooth tone while ensures smooth exhaust gas flow, increase engine output and efficiency.
  • 【Muffler & Diameter】2. 5" OD / 3" OD / Louvered Core Muffler
  • 【Design】The larger pipes, low-restriction mufflers, and tuned resonators of a well-designed performance exhaust system can make stunned effect on your vehicle: lower auto exhaust back pressure and a much better sound.
Bestseller No. 8
Flowmaster 717787 FlowFX Cat-Back Exhaust System
  • Includes all Clamps, Hangers and Necessary Hardware
  • FlowFX "Straight-through" Performance Muffler
  • Large 4.00-inch Black Ceramic Coated Tips
  • Dyno-Tuned For Maximum Performance
  • Stainless Steel Mandrel Bent Tubing
SaleBestseller No. 9
Bestseller No. 10
Truck Exhaust Kits - Shop Line Dual Exhaust Sytem 2.5 inch Aluminized Pipe Cherry Bomb Extreme Muffler Chrome Tips
  • Disclaimer* This product does not interfere with any portion of the vehicle’s emissions control systems; The intent of the product is to retain all emissions control devices and their intended purpose on the vehicle; This product is in compliance with the Clean Air Act in full
  • Installation Hardware Included
  • Welding not Required
  • Disclaimer* This product does not interfere with any portion of the vehicle’s emissions control systems; The intent of the product is to retain all emissions control devices and their intended purpose on the vehicle; This product is in compliance with the Clean Air Act in full

Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Overview of the 4.8 Silverado exhaust

The 4.8 Silverado exhaust system is an important component of the Silverado’s overall performance and durability.

The exhaust system runs from the engine of your vehicle to the rear tire, with multiple tubes, mufflers and catalytic converters along the way. It deals with both gases that come out of the engine and keep it functioning properlyn as well as smoke that comes from incomplete combustion in the engine’s cylinders.

The 4.8 Silverado exhaust system helps reduce noise and harmful emissions like carbon monoxide from escaping into the environment. It may also increase power output by allowing spent gasses to escape more quickly and efficiently, enabling your truck to gain considerable horsepower gains over stock components.

A typical 4.8 Silverado exhaust is composed of a muffler or series of mufflers (the most-heard component), resonator (next-most-heards component), pre-catalytic converter (prevents pollutants before they enter the catalytic converter) and a post-catalytic converter (further reduces pollutants entering atmosphere). In general, upgrading to more efficient parts will help improve horsepower, torque, gas mileage and emissions output from your vehicle. The typical life span for a standard 4.8 Silverado exhaust will be around 5-7 years depending on usage type such as commuting or racing events.

Types of Exhausts

When it comes to the best exhaust for 4.8 silverado, there are a number of different types that are available, each with its own set of features and benefits. Exhausts come in a variety of materials, such as stainless steel, and can include different components such as mufflers, headers, and catalytic converters.

It is important to choose the right exhaust for your truck, so let’s look at the different types available.

Cat-Back Exhaust

Cat-back exhaust systems are designed to replace the portion of your exhaust system between the catalytic converter and the tailpipe. These systems are typically constructed of stainless steel or aluminized steel tubing and come with all necessary mounting hardware, hangers and clamps. They feature mandrel-bent pipes and straight-through, high-flow mufflers that produce a mellow, aggressive sound; some have adjustable tips that let you customize the look of your car by changing the color or shape of the tailpipe.

Cat-back systems can often result in an increase in horsepower and torque output due to improved flow characteristics over the stock exhaust system and may also offer reduced weight for enhanced performance. Installing a cat-back system is relatively simple; in most cases, it only requires basic hand tools and takes an afternoon to complete.

Header-Back Exhaust

Header-back exhaust systems provide the ultimate in looks and performance for your vehicle. Generally, header-back systems replace everything from the exhaust manifold or header directly after the engine, including pipes, mufflers and any catalytic converters.

This type of system is one of the most expensive available due to its ability to maximize horsepower and performance gains from increased air flow. This is achieved by implementing headers with wider-diameter tubes that give exhaust gases more room to escape, which is why they are so much more efficient than other types of exhaust systems.

Header-back exhausts can also be tailored to customize the sound being emitted from a vehicle’s engine; depending on what you’re interested in, these systems have been known to produce loud growling or even a mellow hum that gives cars a distinct sound.

Axle-Back Exhaust

Axle-back exhausts are generally the most common type of performance exhaust system. As the name implies, they attach near the rear axle and are designed to reduce backpressure while increasing engine output and fuel economy. Axle-back exhausts provide a noticeable improvement in sound but usually don’t dramatically change undercarriage clearance or reduce overall weight. Additionally, because most modern exhaust systems are pre-bent, this type of upgrade is relatively easy to install.

Exhaust piping for axle-back systems can vary based on several factors including engine size and horsepower, as well as intended usage—street performance or full race system. Commonly found on stock vehicles, axle-back systems are typically outfitted with one muffler or two mufflers, depending on the manufacturer’s design and performance parameters. These systems offer improved flow over stock equipment, often with additional aesthetic benefits such as chromed tips that can replace factory versions for improved visibility and a distinctive look. An axle-back exhaust system is generally seen as an intermediate step between a stock system and other more extreme pursuits such as a complete catback setup or turbocharger modifications.

Top Exhausts for 4.8 Sierra and Silverado Trucks on Amazon

Bestseller No. 1
Flowmaster Super 44 Mandrel-Bent Aluminized Dual Truck Exhaust Kit w/Chrome Tips for Silverado, Sierra, F-Series & Ram
  • Performance Dual Exhaust for Ram, Ford F-Series, Silverado & Sierra trucks
  • Single 3 inch inlet /Dual 2.5 inch outlet Flowmaster Super 44 Muffler
  • Two 2.5 inch high-flow mandrel-bent tailpipes, cut and swedged
  • Two 3.5 inch x18 inch WELD-ON angle-cut chrome tips
Bestseller No. 2
MBRP Exhaust S5001409 Muffler Bypass Fits 14-21 Compatible with/Replacement for Sierra 1500 Silverado 1500
  • Designed to deliver trouble-free, consistent performance
  • Right for your vehicle and lifestyle
  • Made from high-quality materials for ultimate durability
  • Manufactured to meet or exceed strict quality requirements
  • If you have any questions or need fitment information for your vehicle, please contact with us
Bestseller No. 3
Auto Dynasty 4 Inches Rolled Muffler Tip Catback Exhaust System Compatible with Silverado Sierra 1500 Crew/Extended Cab Short Bed 07-13
  • Made of High Quality 304 Stainless Steel with Computerized Mandrel-Bends for Strength and Durability
  • TIG welded CNC Machine Flange for Resistance Against Pressure and Corrosion
  • 3" OD Inlet / 3" OD Main piping
  • 4" OD Round Diagonal Cut Muffler Tip
  • Dyno Proven to Instantly Increases 15 to 25 Horsepower or Low End Torque
SaleBestseller No. 4
Rough Country Dual Cat-Back Exhaust for 19-24 Chevy/GMC Sierra |5.3L - 96011
  • Dual Cat Back Design with Rear Exit.
  • Corrosion Resistant 409 Stainless Steel | 16 Gauge Tubing | 409 Stainless Black Muffler and Clamps.
  • Dual Wall Stainless Steel 304 Black Tips | Can Retain your OEM Dual Tips.
  • Installs into OEM Hangers | No Welding | Easy at Home Installation.
  • Backed by Rough Country's Limited Lifetime Replacement Warranty.
Bestseller No. 5
Rough Country Dual Cat-Back Exhaust for 2014-2018 Chevy/GMC 1500 | 5.3L - 96007
  • Dual Cat Back Design w/ Side Exit.
  • Corrosion Resistant 409 Stainless Steel | 16 Gauge Tubing.
  • Dual Wall Stainless Steel 304 Black Tips.
  • Installs into OEM Hangers | No Welding | Easy at Home Installation.
  • Backed by Rough Country's Limited Lifetime Replacement Warranty.
Bestseller No. 6
SaleBestseller No. 7
DNA MOTORING CBE-CS09-4853L-4DR Stainless Steel Cat Back Exhaust System [Compatible with 07-13 Silverado 1500/07-13 Sierra 1500 Crew/Extended Cab Short Bed]
  • 【FITMENT】Compatible with 07-13 Chevy Silverado 1500 Crew/Extended Cab Short Bed; Compatible with 07-13 GMC Sierra 1500 Crew/Extended Cab Short Bed
  • 【Quality Construction】Made of High Quality T-409 Stainless Steel with Computerized Mandrel-Bends for Strength and Durability. TIG welded CNC machine flange for resistance against pressure and corrosion.
  • 【Enhance Performence】Dyno proven to instantly increases 15 - 25 horsepower / low end torque. Aggressive deep and smooth tone while ensures smooth exhaust gas flow, increase engine output and efficiency.
  • 【Muffler & Diameter】2. 5" OD / 3" OD / Louvered Core Muffler
  • 【Design】The larger pipes, low-restriction mufflers, and tuned resonators of a well-designed performance exhaust system can make stunned effect on your vehicle: lower auto exhaust back pressure and a much better sound.
Bestseller No. 8
Flowmaster 717787 FlowFX Cat-Back Exhaust System
  • Includes all Clamps, Hangers and Necessary Hardware
  • FlowFX "Straight-through" Performance Muffler
  • Large 4.00-inch Black Ceramic Coated Tips
  • Dyno-Tuned For Maximum Performance
  • Stainless Steel Mandrel Bent Tubing
SaleBestseller No. 9
Bestseller No. 10
Truck Exhaust Kits - Shop Line Dual Exhaust Sytem 2.5 inch Aluminized Pipe Cherry Bomb Extreme Muffler Chrome Tips
  • Disclaimer* This product does not interfere with any portion of the vehicle’s emissions control systems; The intent of the product is to retain all emissions control devices and their intended purpose on the vehicle; This product is in compliance with the Clean Air Act in full
  • Installation Hardware Included
  • Welding not Required
  • Disclaimer* This product does not interfere with any portion of the vehicle’s emissions control systems; The intent of the product is to retain all emissions control devices and their intended purpose on the vehicle; This product is in compliance with the Clean Air Act in full

Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

FAQ: Improving the Performance of Your Chevy Silverado Exhaust

Your Chevy Silverado’s exhaust system plays an important role in the performance and sound of your vehicle. Whether you’re looking to improve your truck’s power, fuel efficiency, or sound, there are several options to consider. In this FAQ, we’ll answer some of the most commonly asked questions about Chevy Silverado exhaust systems.

What exhaust sounds best on a Chevy Silverado?

The best exhaust sound for a Chevy Silverado can be subjective, as everyone’s preferences are different. However, some of the most popular options for improving the sound of a Silverado’s exhaust include cat-back exhaust systems, axle-back exhaust systems, and mufflers with aggressive sound profiles. The type of exhaust system that sounds best will depend on your individual preferences, the year and model of your truck, and the driving conditions in which you’ll be using your vehicle.

How many miles will a Chevy 4.8 last?

The lifespan of a Chevy 4.8 engine can vary depending on several factors, including driving habits, maintenance, and the overall condition of the vehicle. However, with proper care and maintenance, a Chevy 4.8 engine can last for over 200,000 miles. Regular oil changes, tune-ups, and other routine maintenance can help extend the life of your engine.

How can I make my Silverado sound better?

There are several ways to improve the sound of your Silverado’s exhaust system. One of the most effective methods is to install an aftermarket exhaust system that is designed to improve sound and performance. This can include a cat-back or axle-back system, as well as a performance muffler. Other options to consider include adding a cold air intake, upgrading the exhaust tips, and installing a high-flow catalytic converter.

Does a dual exhaust increase horsepower?

In general, a dual exhaust system can improve horsepower and torque by increasing airflow to the engine.

By reducing back pressure in the exhaust system, a dual exhaust can improve the engine’s efficiency, allowing it to produce more power.

However, the amount of horsepower gain will depend on the specific vehicle and exhaust system, as well as other modifications made to the engine. Additionally, a dual exhaust system may not be necessary or beneficial for all vehicles, so it’s important to consult with a professional to determine the best exhaust system for your specific needs.

In conclusion, your Chevy Silverado’s exhaust system can play an important role in the performance and sound of your vehicle. By choosing the right exhaust system, you can improve the sound, power, and efficiency of your truck, while also extending the life of your engine.

As with any modifications, it’s important to do your research and consult with a professional to determine the best options for your specific needs. With the right upgrades, your Chevy Silverado can provide many years of reliable and enjoyable driving.

Find the best exhaust for 4.8L Silverados and Sierra trucks on Amazon.