Every part of a vehicle has its specific function, and if one part is not working correctly, the whole system can be affected.
However, car enthusiasts worldwide are constantly testing the limits of their vehicles and are always looking for new ways to improve performance and engine sound.
One popular modification is known as a resonator delete. So, what exactly is a resonator delete? And what are the pros and cons of removing a resonator from the exhaust system?
What is a Resonator Delete?
A resonator delete cuts off the resonator from the exhaust system and replaces it with a straight pipe. The exhaust flow is increased by removing the resonator, leading to a slight increase in horsepower and a better-sounding engine.
A resonator is a chamber that is connected to the exhaust system of a vehicle. It is typically located between the muffler and the catalytic converter.
Its purpose is to cancel out specific frequencies that are produced by the engine, which can create a more pleasant engine sound for the driver and passengers.
However, many car enthusiasts also believe that resonators can hinder performance because they can restrict exhaust flow.
As a result, some people choose to remove the resonator entirely to improve performance.
Types of Resonators
There are different kinds of resonators doing the same job in different ways. Some are simpler constructed, while others have a more complex design.
- Chambered or Helmholz. These resonators use a series of chambers and baffles to cancel out specific frequencies.
- Dissipative. These resonators use sound-damping materials to absorb specific frequencies. These are the most common resonators on the market.
- Expansion Chamber. These resonators use a small tube that cancels out specific frequencies.
6 Benefits of a Resonator Delete
You should consider several potential benefits of performing a resonator delete before modifying your vehicle.
1. Sound Improvement
One of the most common reasons people resonator delete is for sound improvement.
Many car enthusiasts believe that removing the resonator can make the engine sound more aggressive and sporty.
Removing the resonator impacts the exhaust note in different ways, depending on the type of resonator being removed.
However, it is essential to keep in mind that resonator delete can also make the engine sound too loud for some people.
Before a resonator delete, you should consider what sound you want your engine to make.
2. Power Gain
Another common reason people resonator delete is for power gain.
As mentioned before, resonators can sometimes restrict exhaust flow and hinder performance.
So, by removing the resonator, you may see a slight increase in power.
However, it is essential to remember that the power gained from resonator delete is typically minimal.
You may only see a 1-5 horsepower gain from resonator delete, so it is not a significant increase.
3. Weight Reduction
Another potential benefit of resonator delete is weight reduction.
Resonators are typically made out of heavy materials such as stainless steel, so removing it can save some weight.
Every little bit of weight reduction can help improve performance, so resonator delete is a popular modification for racing enthusiasts.
4. Better Gas Mileage
As the car weighs less and there is a better exhaust flow, the car’s engine won’t have to work as hard as before the resonator delete.
This can lead to slightly better gas mileage, although the difference is usually insignificant.
5. It’s Cheap and Easy
Resonator delete is a very cheap and easy modification to do.
In most cases, all you need is a resonator delete kit, which usually costs less than $100. A workshop will charge between $100 and $200 for the job.
Resonator delete is a great way to improve the sound of your engine without breaking the bank.
The resonator delete can usually be installed in less than two hours.
So, if you’re looking for an easy and affordable way to modify your car’s exhaust system, resonator delete is a great option.
6. It’s legal
Resonator delete is perfectly legal in many states as it won’t exceed the noise pollution limits.
However, it is essential to check the laws in your area before performing a resonator delete.
In some states, resonator delete may be considered illegal because it can make the car too loud.
So, be sure to do your research and find out if resonator delete is legal where you live.
6 Drawbacks of a Resonator Delete
Even if resonator delete is a relatively cheap and straightforward modification, there are also several potential drawbacks of a resonator delete you should be aware of.
Related: P0420 Code – Meaning, Causes, Symptoms, & Fixes
It’s important to be aware of the potential risks and drawbacks before making any changes to your vehicle.
1. The Car Might Get Too Loud
One of the main potential drawbacks of resonator delete is that it can make the car too loud.
If you remove the resonator, the engine will be louder, both inside and outside the car.
Depending on your preferences, this can be a good thing or a bad thing.
Some people enjoy the engine’s louder, more aggressive sound, while others find it too loud and annoying.
If you do a resonator delete, be prepared for the car to be significantly louder than before.
2. Could Affect Exhaust Flow
Another potential drawback of resonator delete is that it could affect exhaust flow negatively.
The resonator is designed to help regulate exhaust flow, so removing it could potentially disrupt the flow.
Even though a resonator could increase the performance, this could lead to a decrease in performance, although the impact is usually minimal.
In most cases, you won’t notice any performance difference after a resonator delete.
3. Could Cause Idle Issues
Due to the removed resonator, the catalytic converter is slightly affected, which could cause idling issues in older cars.
This is not a common issue, but it is something to be aware of before resonator delete.
4. Might Illuminate Check Engine Light
In some cases, resonator delete might cause the check engine light to illuminate.
This is because a resonator delete impacts the catalytic converter, monitored by the check engine light.
If the resonator delete affects the catalytic converter too much, it could cause the check engine light to come on.
This is not a common issue, but it’s something to be aware of before resonator delete.
If the check engine light does come on after resonator delete, there is usually no need to worry as it is often just a false alarm.
However, it is always best to take the car to a mechanic to get it checked out to be safe.
5. Might Lose Some Power
While a resonator delete could add power to some cars, it can also lead to a loss of power on other vehicles.
The main reason for this is that the resonator delete alters the exhaust flow, leading to a loss of power. Although we’re not talking about a lot of power, every horsepower counts on a track car.
This is not a common issue, but you should be aware of it before doing a resonator delete.
6. Could Affect Warranty
One final potential drawback of resonator delete is that it may void the warranty on your car.
If you have a resonator delete performed on a new car, it could void the manufacturer’s warranty.
Be sure to check with your dealership or read through the warranty document before modifying your car.
Be sure to do your research and make an informed decision before deleting the resonator on your car.
How Much Does a Resonator Delete Cost?
Being interested in modifying your car can be expensive, and calculating if it’s worth your money is essential. A resonator delete is a pretty cheap modification, but how much does a resonator delete cost?
A resonator delete costs anywhere from $100 to $200 for the parts and labor, averaging at $150 at a professional workshop. You only need to spend up to $100 for a replacement pipe by doing the job yourself. The pipe’s length and diameter vary based on the make and model of your vehicle.
And if you’re looking to do the job yourself, it should only take about an hour or two.
How to Delete a Resonator
Now that you know the pros and cons of a resonator delete and how much it costs, you may be wondering how to perform a resonator delete.
JD Cars made a great video showing how to perform a resonator delete, or you could follow this guide:
1. Jack Up the Car
Use a jack to lift up the car, giving you better access to the exhaust system.
2. Put the Car on Jack Stands
This is perhaps the most crucial step, as you will be working underneath the car. Use jack stands to support the vehicle and keep it level.
3. Dismount the Exhaust Pipe
It’s easier to cut and weld the resonator delete pipe if the exhaust system is not mounted on the car.
Therefore you should disconnect the exhaust system to make the process easier.
4. Locate the Resonator
The resonator is usually located between the catalytic converter and the muffler. It looks like a small cylinder and is usually made of stainless steel.
5. Cut the Exhaust Pipe
Now that you have located the resonator, you need to cut it out. Use a Sawzall or similar tool to make the job easier.
6. Remove the Resonator
Now that you’ve cut the resonator out, you can remove it from the car. This is an exciting next step in your car’s transformation!
7. Weld a Pipe to the Exhaust System
Now that the resonator is removed, you need to weld a new pipe in its place. The new pipe should be the same length and diameter as the resonator.
8. Reinstall the Exhaust Pipe
Once the replacement pipe is in place, you can reinstall the exhaust pipe. Be sure to tighten all the clamps to avoid any leaks.
9. Check for Exhaust Leaks
After you have completed all the steps, you can now start the car and listen for any changes in sound.
If there are no leaks, you should notice a difference in sound. The car should be louder than before, and there may be a slight increase in power.
FAQs
What Happens If I remove a Resonator?
If you remove a resonator, the car will be louder than before. There may also be a slight increase in power. However, removing the resonator can affect the warranty on your car.
Is a Resonator Delete Worth It?
A resonator delete is a cheap modification that can make your car sound better. Although this modification is popular among car enthusiasts, do your research and make an informed decision before performing a resonator delete on your car.
Will a Resonator Delete Make My Car Louder?
Yes, a resonator delete will make your car louder than before. However, the increase in sound may not be significant. If you are looking for a significant increase in sound, you may want to consider other modifications, such as a muffler delete.
Will a Resonator Delete Cause Check Engine Light?
A resonator delete could cause a check engine light. If you Perform the resonator delete incorrectly, it can cause exhaust leaks triggering the check engine light. Be sure to follow the instructions carefully and have a professional perform the resonator delete if you are unsure.
Summary
In conclusion, resonator delete is a cheap and easy way to improve the sound of your engine. If done correctly, a Resonator delete can be a great addition to your car.
If you’re looking to improve your car’s performance, a resonator delete is one of the cheapest modifications you can make.
This simple process can be completed in just a few easy steps, and it’ll help your car breathe easier and run more efficiently.
Plus, it’s a relatively inexpensive way to get a better-sounding car.
So if you’re ready to take your car’s engine sound to the next level, a resonator delete is definitely worth considering.
It’s also legal in many states, making it a perfect modification for a better audible experience when driving your car.
However, there are also some potential drawbacks of resonator delete you should be aware of before modifying your car.
If you have any questions, ask a professional mechanic for advice or leave a comment below.
