VE & VF Commodore Exhaust Guide: Cat-Backs, Rear Mufflers and Headers

VE and VF Commodores have a huge range of exhaust options, but the correct system depends on more than whether the car is a VE or VF. Engine and body style matter, and a cat-back system is a different purchase from rear mufflers or headers. Identifying those details first makes the catalogue much easier to navigate.

Start with our Holden Commodore performance exhaust hub, then choose the correct series.

VE or VF comes first

Browse VE Commodore exhausts or VF Commodore exhausts. Do not assume a system fits both generations unless the manufacturer specifically lists both.

Then choose the body style

Body style changes system length and rear routing. Sedan/wagon and ute systems are separated in our catalogue so you do not have to sort through incompatible parts.

For VE, go directly to VE cat-back systems for sedan/wagon or VE cat-back systems for ute. For VF, use VF cat-back systems for sedan/wagon or VF cat-back systems for ute.

Cat-back, rear mufflers or headers?

Cat-back system

A cat-back replaces the exhaust downstream of the catalytic-converter area according to the design of that particular kit. It is the logical category when you want to change a larger portion of the exhaust rather than one rear section.

Rear mufflers and sections

Rear sections are useful when the rest of the system is staying in place. Browse VE sedan/wagon rear mufflers and sections, VE ute rear sections or VF rear mufflers and sections.

Headers and extractors

Headers are at the engine end of the system and involve different fitment considerations from a cat-back. If headers are part of a larger performance package, think about the combination as a whole rather than choosing them independently from the rest of the exhaust. Browse VE headers and extractors or VF headers and extractors.

Engine fitment is critical

VE and VF were offered with different engines. A V6 system should not be assumed to fit a V8, and even within one engine family the product listing may specify further fitment details. Confirm engine and transmission-related notes where the manufacturer lists them.

What about 2.5-inch vs 3-inch?

Pipe diameter changes sound, packaging and flow characteristics, but the largest option is not automatically the right choice for every car. Read our 2.5-inch vs 3-inch exhaust guide for the fundamentals before deciding.

Will it drone?

Drone is influenced by far more than diameter. Muffler volume, resonators, engine speed, gearing and the vehicle cabin all contribute. If the car spends a lot of time at a fixed highway rpm, prioritise a system designed around the sound level you can live with rather than choosing purely for maximum volume.

Do you need a dyno tune?

A cat-back alone and a complete engine/exhaust package are different situations. If you are combining headers, intake changes, forced induction or engine-management changes, tuning becomes a much bigger part of the job. See our guide: Do I need a dyno tune after installing a performance exhaust?

Need help matching a VE or VF system? Contact Motion Performance with your series, engine and body style and we can help narrow the catalogue before you order.