Let’s get ready to do some fun mods on your C8 Corvette!  This Corvette was introduced in 2020 and comes with a pretty modest exhaust sound. It’s time to ditch the whisper-quiet stock exhaust and hear the symphony of a performance upgrade.  This exhaust installation isn’t just a bolt-on job; it’s a transformation that takes time.  Get your tools ready as we cover a few tips and tricks for a smooth C8 exhaust installation.

Stock 2020-2025+ Corvette Exhaust Removal

First, do yourself a favor and get a hoist if you can.  It’s better for your safety and the comfort of your back!  Also, get a buddy to help.  Seriously, having an extra set of hands makes a world of difference.  Trying to line everything up and hold things in place yourself is not an easy task. 

To access the C8 exhaust, you need to remove the body parts and the electric exhaust motors.  Take your time and be organized.  Get some baggies and label them for each part you’re taking off.  When you remove a part, put the screws, nuts and clips in the bag. This tip makes it easier to have the right fasteners available during reassembly.  Being organized is the key to a successful DIY install project. If you don’t have baggies, use a labeled container or parts tray.

Next, it’s time to disassemble some body parts to get to the exhaust. Remove the C8 rear wheels and splash shield. Then, with the hatch open, remove the trunk liner and the panel.  Once you do that, you’ll expose the air box and most importantly, the 2 attachment points for the OE exhaust.  When the body components are out of the way, remove 5 simple nuts, and the stock exhaust is off.  Now we’re ready to install a street race performance exhaust.

Aftermarket Cat-Back Exhaust Installation

First and foremost, read the manufacturer’s installation instructions.  C8 Corvette performance exhaust installs can be tricky and you’ll want to understand the playbook before you start the project.  Choose an aftermarket exhaust from a reputable manufacturer for the best fit and finish. Also, choose an exhaust sound that you’ll love to hear. Install a system suitable for your driving style. A sport touring exhaust provides a refined sound level above stock, or a street race exhaust delivers an increased performance and aggressive deep growl to Get Noticed when you step on it — it’s your choice! [Sound clips]

The 2020-2025+ Corvette performance exhaust designed by MRT is straightforward to install.  Install the exhaust lead tubes first. Connect the driver-side pipe to the 2-bolt flange and the passenger pipe to the 3-bolt flange.  Snug the nuts down to keep both lead pipes in position, but do not tighten. Slide the band clamps over the pipes, then slide the lead pipes onto the H-section, and finally, install the exhaust tip sections on each side.  Remember, good manufacturer instructions should contain photos of the Corvette exhaust parts, fasteners, and assembly. Refer to these during the installation process.

Loosely fit all components as you install the C8 exhaust, and don’t tighten the band clamps.  You will secure the full system after the body parts are reinstalled, so you can check the exhaust tip position in the rear fascia.

Active Fuel Management and Aftermarket Exhaust Install

Four electric motors need to be removed from the stock exhaust system. These motors will be replaced with AFM modules on the new exhaust.  To remove the AFM motor wire, pull or slide the red tab back. Then depress the plastic in front of the tap to separate the two halves of the connector.  Push the wires to the side while you finish the installation.

When the new exhaust is in place, install the Active Fuel Management (AFM) module to prevent the Check Engine Light (CEL) from appearing.  To connect the wire harness to the AFM module, slide the connector onto the aftermarket module. When seated, slide the red tab forward into the lock position.

Re-assembly & Exhaust Tip Alignment

Today’s best tip is to put a cloth over the exhaust tips so you don’t scuff the finish during the final installation steps.  Re-installation of the C8 fascia is basically the reverse of everything you did to take the system apart. This process should be simple if you use the recommended labeled baggies to store all fasteners.  Work from front to rear of the vehicle to tighten each nut, bolt, and band clamp, and your buddy can check the system placement as you go.  Reminder, proper clamp placement is critical for a good seal and proper system alignment. 

Check that your new catback exhaust fits well and there are no clearance issues.  Also, look at the tip position and be sure the alignment is centered to clearly show off the sexy, new C8 performance exhaust. 

Finally, install the trunk liner and panel. Carefully install the rear wheels and tighten and torque the lug nuts. Get in the car and crank the engine to Hear the Difference!

C8 Exhaust Installation is a Big DIY project

There’s a lot of work to replace the stock C8 Corvette exhaust, and it takes an experienced technician 5-6 hours of installation time. To access the exhaust, many body parts and fasteners must be removed. AFM motors are removed from the stock exhaust and reused on the new system PLUS a new AFM module must be installed to prevent CEL error messages.  If you’re not comfortable performing these tasks, consult a professional installer such as MRT Performance so you know an expert will install the system correctly.