What Is an Exhaust Cutout and How Does It Work?

🔧 What Is an Exhaust Cutout?

An exhaust cutout is a performance modification that lets you control the flow of exhaust gases from your engine. It works by bypassing the muffler, allowing exhaust to exit directly through a separate pipe — usually with the push of a button or through an app.

This means:

  • More sound when you want it

  • More performance due to reduced backpressure

  • And stealth mode when you want to stay quiet

⚙️ How Does It Work?

The cutout is installed along the exhaust pipe — usually before the muffler. It includes a valve that can open or close:

  • Closed: Exhaust flows normally through the muffler (quiet mode)

  • Open: Exhaust exits early through the cutout (louder & more aggressive)

There are two main types:

  1. Manual Cutouts – Opened/closed by hand or a lever

  2. Electronic Cutouts – Controlled by a remote or mobile app (like the DPW Smart Exhaust Cutout System)

🏁 Why Use an Exhaust Cutout?

Here are the top reasons drivers install them:

✅ Sound Control – Go from quiet to loud with a button press
✅ More Horsepower – Less exhaust restriction = more flow
✅ Track Day Ready – Unleash sound and power at the track
✅ Cruise in Stealth – Close the cutout for peaceful city driving
✅ No Permanent Exhaust Mod – Reversible and easy to install

🔩 How to Install One

Installing an electronic exhaust cutout (like our DPW 2.5” or 3” kits) is straightforward for most car enthusiasts.

Installation overview:

  1. Cut a section of your mid-pipe or Y-pipe

  2. Weld or clamp in the cutout pipe

  3. Mount the valve motor and connect to the controller

  4. Wire the system to power

  5. Test via remote or app

💡 Want a full walkthrough? Check our Installation Guide or contact our team for help.

🔊 Remote vs. App Controlled Cutouts

Modern systems, like Digipower’s DPW Exhaust Cutouts, allow:

  • Remote control (key fob)

  • Bluetooth App control (Android/iOS)

  • Optional throttle-based opening (valve opens based on pedal pressure!) by installing the Speed Infinity throttle response controller

This means ultimate customization, convenience, and no cabin wiring.

⚠️ Are Exhaust Cutouts Legal?

Laws vary by state or country. In many places:

  • They're legal if closed on public roads

  • Only legal when open at racetracks or private property

Always check local regulations.

🛒 Shop Premium Exhaust Cutouts

Ready to upgrade your exhaust system? At Digipower USA, we offer:

  • Stainless steel 2.5” and 3” cutouts

  • Single and dual kits

  • Remote + Bluetooth App control

  • Easy installation + wiring harnesses

👉 Browse Exhaust Cutout Kits

✅ Final Thoughts

An exhaust cutout gives you the best of both worlds — aggressive sound and performance on demand, plus quiet driving when needed. Whether you're building a race car or just want to spice up your daily driver, it's one of the best bolt-on mods out there.

 

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