Do Borla Exhaust Come With a Resonator? Essential Facts
Borla exhaust systems vary in their resonator configurations. Some performance systems are designed without resonators for a more aggressive sound. However, many Borla systems, especially those focused on refined tone or drone reduction, include resonators. Always check the specific product details for the unit you’re interested in.
Do Borla Exhaust Systems Come With a Resonator? Essential Facts for Every Car Owner
Understanding your car’s exhaust can sometimes feel like learning a new language. What’s a resonator, and does it matter if your new Borla exhaust has one? Many car owners wonder about this, especially when aiming for a specific engine sound or hoping to avoid annoying highway noise. It’s a common question, and one that can affect your driving experience significantly. Don’t worry, I’m here to help you sort it all out. We’ll break down what resonators do, how Borla uses them, and what that means for you and your vehicle. Let’s figure out the essential facts together, making your exhaust upgrade simple and clear.
What Exactly is a Resonator in an Exhaust System?
Think of a car’s exhaust system as a highway for gases to exit your engine. It’s surprisingly complex! A resonator is a key component on this highway. Its main job is to control the annoying sounds, or “drones,” that can come from your engine, especially at certain speeds. It works by using sound-canceling technology, sort of like noise-canceling headphones for your car. Inside the resonator are chambers and baffles that absorb specific ranges of sound frequencies. This means it doesn’t just mute sound; it tunes it, helping to create a smoother, more pleasant exhaust note without that irritating hum.
When exhaust gases flow through the resonator, the sound waves bounce around inside. Some waves meet other waves in a way that cancels out the harsh, undesirable tones. This leaves you with a deeper, more controlled sound. It’s a clever piece of engineering designed to balance performance with comfort.
Borla Exhaust Systems: A Closer Look at Resonator Options
Borla is a top name in aftermarket exhaust systems, known for quality and performance. They offer a wide range of products, and this means they also offer different approaches to resonators. Not all Borla exhausts are created equal when it comes to sound! Some are designed for maximum aggression and raw power, and these might skip the resonator. Others are engineered for a more refined sound, a deeper rumble without the annoying drone, and these often include resonators.
Borla often labels their systems to give you an idea of the sound level. For example, their “Touring” systems are generally the quietest, often including resonators to keep noise levels comfortably low. Their “S-Type” systems offer a more aggressive sound, and might or might not have resonators depending on the application. And for those who want the loudest, most aggressive sound, their “ATAK” (Acoustically Tuned Applied Kinetics) systems are typically designed to be resonator-free, maximizing volume and a race-car-like growl.
The inclusion of a resonator in a Borla system is a deliberate choice by their engineers to achieve a specific sound profile. This is why it’s so important to check the product description for the exact Borla system you’re considering. There’s no single “yes” or “no” answer that applies to all Borla exhausts.
Why Borla Might Choose to Include or Exclude a Resonator
Borla’s expert engineers make decisions about resonators based on several factors:
Target Sound Profile: Do they want a quiet, refined tone, or a loud, aggressive roar? Resonators are crucial for fine-tuning this.
Drone Reduction: High-performance engines can produce unpleasant droning sounds at highway speeds. Resonators are often added to combat this, improving the driving experience.
Performance Goals: In some extreme setups, removing a resonator might free up a tiny bit of exhaust flow, but this is usually secondary to sound control for most street-driven vehicles.
Vehicle Application: Different cars have different engine characteristics and factory exhaust setups. Borla designs systems to complement these.
How to Identify if a Borla Exhaust Comes with a Resonator
Navigating online product listings can sometimes feel like a treasure hunt for information. Thankfully, Borla makes it relatively straightforward if you know where to look. The best way to be sure is to always check the official Borla product page or a reputable retailer’s description for the specific exhaust system you’re interested in.
Here’s what to look for:
Product Descriptions and Specifications
When you visit the Borla website (or a major auto parts retailer), find the exact exhaust system for your car’s make, model, and year. Look for these sections:
“Features” or “What’s Included”: This section will usually list all the components in the exhaust kit. If a resonator is included, it will almost certainly be listed here.
“Sound Level” or “System Type”: As mentioned, Borla uses terms like Touring, S-Type, and ATAK. These often hint at the presence or absence of resonators. Touring systems are more likely to have them for a quieter experience.
Part Number: If you have the part number, you can often search directly for it on Borla’s site or directly contact their customer support. This is the most reliable method.
Visual Clues in Product Images
While not always definitive, product images can sometimes offer clues.
Length and Shape: Resonators are typically cylindrical or rectangular mufflers that sit somewhere in the mid-section or rear of the exhaust pipe. If you see an extra “can” or box in the diagram or photos that isn’t one of the main mufflers, it’s likely a resonator.
Comparison: If you’re looking at two different Borla systems for the same car, compare their diagrams. A system with an extra component in the mid-pipe is probably the one with a resonator.
Customer Reviews and Forums
Real-world feedback from other owners can be invaluable.
Sound Descriptions: Customers often talk about the sound quality, mentioning whether it’s deep, aggressive, or if there’s drone. If people consistently complain about drone on a specific system, it’s likely missing a resonator. Conversely, if they praise its refined tone, it probably has one.
Installation Experiences: Sometimes, forum discussions will detail what parts came in the box, explicitly mentioning the resonator.
Do All Borla Exhausts Have Mufflers?
This is a great related question! While resonators deal with specific sound frequencies, mufflers are the primary components designed to reduce overall exhaust volume. Yes, virtually all Borla exhaust systems, whether they include a separate resonator or not, will contain mufflers. The number and design of these mufflers vary greatly depending on the system’s intended sound level and performance characteristics.
Borla is famous for its unique muffler designs, like the straight-through “straight-through” or “chambered” designs that improve flow while still providing significant muffling compared to a hollow pipe. So, while the presence of a resonator isn’t universal across all Borla products, the presence of mufflers is standard for any system meant for street use.
The Role and Benefits of Resonators in Borla Systems
Resonators aren’t just extra parts; they serve specific functions that enhance your driving experience. Borla engineers integrate them thoughtfully.
Controlling Unwanted Drone
This is perhaps the most significant benefit of a resonator. When exhaust gases expel from the engine, they create pressure waves. At certain engine RPMs, particularly in the mid-range that you often use during highway cruising, these waves can create a low-frequency hum or vibration inside the cabin – this is known as exhaust drone. It can be incredibly annoying and tiring on long drives. A resonator is tuned to cancel out these specific frequencies, smoothing out the exhaust note and making your car much more comfortable for daily driving.
Refining the Exhaust Note
Beyond just getting rid of drone, resonators help shape the overall sound of your exhaust. They tend to make the exhaust note deeper and more controlled, removing some of the raspy or tinny higher frequencies that can sound less refined. This results in a richer, more premium-sounding exhaust note that many drivers prefer.
Meeting Street Legal Sound Requirements
In many regions, there are regulations on how loud a vehicle’s exhaust system can be. While Borla systems are performance-oriented, they also aim to meet these standards. Resonators play a key role in helping systems pass emissions and noise level tests, especially for their milder “Touring” and some “S-Type” configurations.
Minimizing Interior Noise
Even without being classified as pure drone, high-frequency exhaust noise can intrude into the cabin and cause fatigue. Resonators act as a filter, reducing this unwelcome noise and helping to maintain a more peaceful interior environment.
Different Borla System Types and Their Resonator Configurations
Borla categorizes its exhaust systems by sound level, and this is your best guide to predicting resonator inclusion.
1. Borla Touring Series
Sound Level: Mildest, closest to stock but with a richer tone.
Resonator: Almost always include a resonator. These systems are designed for drivers who want a subtle improvement in sound without any noticeable drone or excessive loudness. The resonator is crucial for achieving this refined, comfortable sound.
2. Borla S-Type Series
Sound Level: Moderate to aggressive, noticeable rumble and presence, but generally manageable.
Resonator: Can include or exclude a resonator, depending on the specific application. For some vehicles, Borla might use a specially tuned muffler design to achieve the S-Type sound without a separate resonator. For others, they might include a resonator to manage specific frequencies while still allowing for a more aggressive tone than Touring. You must check the product details for S-Type systems.
3. Borla ATAK Series
Sound Level: Wildest, most aggressive, designed for maximum performance sound and volume.
Resonator: Typically exclude resonators. These systems are all about unleashing the raw sound of the engine. The absence of a resonator contributes to the deep, loud, and race-inspired exhaust note that ATAK systems are known for.
Important Note: These are general guidelines. Borla’s engineering teams are constantly innovating. Always verify with the specific product’s documentation.
What Happens If You Remove a Resonator?
If your Borla exhaust system does have a resonator, and you’re considering removing it, you should be aware of the potential consequences. Removing a resonator will change the sound and potentially the driving experience.
Increased Volume: The most immediate effect will be a louder exhaust note. The sound will be less muffled and more raw.
More Aggressive Tone: The exhaust note will likely become deeper and more aggressive. You’ll hear more of the engine’s primal growl.
Potential for Drone: This is the biggest drawback for many. Without the resonator to cancel out specific frequencies, you are highly likely to experience exhaust drone at certain RPMs, especially on the highway. This can significantly degrade the comfort of your daily drive.
Slight Performance Gain (Often Insignificant): In theory, removing any obstruction can slightly improve exhaust flow. However, for most street cars, the performance gain from removing just a resonator (not a catalytic converter or restrictive muffler) is negligible – often too small to be noticed by the driver.
If you’re debating removing a resonator, consider what you want from your exhaust. If a louder, more aggressive sound is paramount and you can tolerate potential drone, it might be an option. However, for a balanced, performance-oriented sound with good daily drivability, keeping the resonator (if included by Borla) is often the best choice. You can always consider a Borla system that is designed without a resonator, like some ATAK systems, if you want maximum volume from the start.
Can You Add a Resonator to a Borla System That Doesn’t Have One?
Yes, it is absolutely possible to add a resonator to a Borla exhaust system that was originally designed without one. This is a common modification for drivers who find a specific Borla system to be too loud or to have too much drone for their liking.
Here’s how it generally works:
1. Identify the Location: The best place to add a resonator is usually in the mid-pipe section of the exhaust, before the rear muffler.
2. Choose a Resonator: You can purchase an aftermarket resonator. Universal resonators are available from various manufacturers. Some performance shops might also recommend specific types of resonators that complement Borla’s muffler designs.
3. Professional Installation: This modification typically requires cutting a section of the existing exhaust pipe and welding in the new resonator. This is best done by a qualified exhaust shop or a skilled mechanic. They can ensure proper fitment and a leak-free seal.
Considerations When Adding a Resonator:
Sound Dampening: The size and type of resonator will affect how much sound it dampens. A larger resonator generally offers more sound reduction.
Drone Control: The goal is to cancel out specific problematic frequencies. An experienced shop might be able to help you select a resonator that targets common drone ranges.
Material and Durability: Ensure the resonator and the welding are made of quality materials (often stainless steel) to withstand the heat and exhaust gases.
This option provides flexibility, allowing you to fine-tune the exhaust note of your existing Borla setup to better suit your preferences.
Essential Tools and When to Call a Professional
If you’re performing an exhaust upgrade or modification (like adding or removing a resonator), knowing when to tackle it yourself and when to seek professional help is crucial for safety and a good result.
Tools for DIY Exhaust Work (If Applicable)
For simpler installations of complete Borla systems (where no cutting/welding is involved), you might need:
Wrenches and Socket Set: For removing old bolts and installing new hangers and clamps.
Jack and Jack Stands: To safely lift and support your vehicle. Never work under a car supported only by a jack.
Penetrating Oil: For loosening rusty bolts.
Safety Gear: Gloves, safety glasses.
When to Call a Professional
Modifying an exhaust system by adding or removing components like resonators almost always requires specialized tools and expertise. It’s generally best to consult a professional if:
Cutting and Welding is Required: If you need to cut pipes to remove or install a component, you’ll need cutting tools and welding equipment.
You Lack Experience: Exhaust systems are critical for safely expelling harmful gases. Improper installation can lead to leaks, reduced performance, or even safety hazards.
Complex Vehicle Systems: Modern cars have sensitive sensors (like oxygen sensors) in their exhaust. Incorrect work can affect your car’s emissions system and check engine light.
You Want a Guarantee: A professional shop will typically stand behind their work, providing a warranty for their labor and parts.
For peace of mind and a guaranteed correct installation, especially for modifications, a professional exhaust shop is your best bet.
External Resources for More Information
To deepen your understanding and ensure you’re making informed decisions, consider these reputable sources:
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA): For understanding vehicle emissions regulations in the United States, and the role of exhaust components. Understanding these standards can help you choose systems that are compliant. (https://www.epa.gov/enforcement/vehicle-emission-restoration-enforcement)
SAE International (Society of Automotive Engineers): For in-depth technical details and research papers on automotive engineering, including exhaust acoustics. While highly technical, it’s the source of much automotive knowledge. (https://www.sae.org/)
* Borla Performance Exhaust Official Website: The most direct source for product information, specifications, application guides, and sometimes even sound clips. Always refer to the manufacturer for the most accurate product details. (https://m.borla.com/)
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Here are answers to some common questions you might have about Borla exhausts and resonators:
Q1: Does every Borla exhaust system include a resonator?
No, not every Borla exhaust system comes with a resonator. Borla offers different series (Touring, S-Type, ATAK) with varying sound profiles. Some systems, especially the more aggressive ATAK series, are intentionally designed without resonators for maximum volume and a raw exhaust note. The Touring series almost always includes one to ensure a refined and quiet experience.
Q2: How can I tell if a specific Borla exhaust I want has a resonator?
The best way is to check the official Borla product description on their website or a reputable retailer’s site for the exact part number. Look for “resonator” in the “features” or “what’s included” section. Product images and customer reviews can also provide clues.
Q3: What is the main purpose of a resonator in an exhaust system?
The main purpose of a resonator is to cancel out specific sound frequencies, particularly the low-frequency drone that can be annoying during highway cruising. It helps to refine the exhaust note, making it deeper and smoother, rather than just reducing overall volume like a muffler does.
Q4: Will removing a resonator from my Borla exhaust make it significantly louder?
Yes, removing a resonator will almost always make the exhaust system noticeably louder and more aggressive. You’ll hear more of the engine’s’ sound. However, it will also significantly increase the chance of experiencing unpleasant exhaust drone, especially at cruising speeds.
Q5: Can I add a resonator to my Borla exhaust if it didn’t come with one?
Yes, it is possible to add a resonator to an exhaust system that was originally designed without one. This typically involves cutting the exhaust pipe and welding in a universal or custom-fit resonator. This is best done by a professional exhaust shop.
Q6: Do Borla mufflers and resonators have different functions?
Yes. Mufflers are primarily designed to reduce the overall volume of the exhaust sound. Resonators, on the other hand, are tuned to cancel out specific unwanted sound frequencies, like drone, and to help shape the overall tone of the exhaust note.
Q7: Are Borla exhaust systems with resonators street legal?
Borla designs most of its systems with street drivability in mind, and many systems with resonators are designed to comply with typical noise regulations. However, legality can vary by region, and removing resonators or modifying systems can impact compliance. Always verify local regulations and the specific product’s compliance claims.
Conclusion
So, do Borla exhaust systems come with a resonator? The answer, as we’ve explored, is that it depends on the specific product and its intended purpose. Borla is renowned for offering systems that cater to a wide range of preferences, from the subtle rumble of the Touring series, which almost always features a resonator, to the wild roars of the ATAK series, which typically omit them entirely.
Understanding the role of a resonator – its ability to cancel drone and refine sound – is key to choosing the right Borla exhaust for your vehicle. If comfort and a smooth, deep tone are your priorities, look for systems that include resonators. If you crave that raw, aggressive sound and don’t mind a bit more noise, then a resonator-free setup might be for you.
Always dive into the product details, check specifications, and read customer feedback. If you’re in doubt, reaching out to Borla customer support or a trusted exhaust specialist is a wise move. By knowing the essential facts about resonators, you can confidently select and enjoy the perfect Borla exhaust that enhances your driving experience without any unwanted surprises. Happy motoring!
