Exhaust Guide
Best Exhausts for the
2011 – 2018 Ram 2500: Every Cat-Back Compared
A complete comparison of cat-back and filter-back exhaust systems for the 2011–2018 Ram 2500 — covering the 5.7L Hemi (2011–2012), 6.4L 392 Hemi (2014–2018), and 6.7L Cummins diesel. Sound profiles, materials, pricing, and fitment notes from MBRP, Flowmaster, Gibson, Borla, and MagnaFlow.
At a Glance
Quick Comparison
| Brand / Kit | Sound Profile | Pipe | Material | Fits | Price | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| MagnaFlow Direct-Fit | OEM-style | OEM | Stainless | 6.7L Cummins | $457 | SHOP → |
| MBRP 6.4L Aluminized | Street | 4" | Aluminized | 6.4L 392 |
|
SHOP → |
| Flowmaster Flow FX 5.7L | Moderate | 3" | 409 SS | 5.7L Hemi |
|
SHOP → |
| Gibson Dual Extreme | Aggressive | 2.5" | Aluminized | 6.4L Big Horn |
|
SHOP → |
| MBRP Dual Split 409 | Race | 4" | 409 SS | 6.4L 392 (2500) | $910 | SHOP → |
| Flowmaster American Thunder | Aggressive | 3" | 409 SS | 6.4L 392 | $1,214 | SHOP → |
| Borla S-Type | S-Type | 3" | 304 SS | 6.4L 392 | $1,138 | SHOP → |
Important
What to Know Before You Buy
Engine-Specific Fitment
The 2011–2018 Ram 2500 had 5.7L Hemi (2011–2012), 6.4L 392 (2014–2018), and 6.7L Cummins diesel. Exhaust fitment is engine-specific. 5.7L systems do not fit 6.4L; diesel filter-back systems do not fit gasoline. Verify your engine before ordering.
Cat-Back vs Filter-Back
A cat-back replaces exhaust from the catalytic converter back (gasoline). A filter-back replaces exhaust from the diesel particulate filter back (6.7L Cummins). Both are 50-state emissions legal. Diesel systems do not fit gasoline trucks.
Trim-Specific 6.4L
Some 6.4L systems are trim-specific. Gibson Dual Extreme fits Big Horn. MBRP Dual Split is 2500 only (excludes 3500). Borla S-Type fits all cab/bed configs except dually. Check fitment before ordering.
Materials: 304 vs 409 vs Aluminized
304 stainless is most corrosion-resistant. 409 stainless is a step up from aluminized. Aluminized is budget-friendly; expect shorter life in salt climates. Borla uses 304; Flowmaster and MBRP offer 409.
MagnaFlow Direct-Fit Replacement Exhaust System: Dodge Ram 2500 (07-11) / 3500 (07-11) 6.7L
MagnaFlow Direct-Fit is an OEM-style replacement for the 2007–2011 Ram 2500 and 3500 6.7L Cummins. Restores exhaust performance with durable stainless construction. Direct bolt-on; includes gaskets and clamps. Lowest price in this guide. Fits 2011 model year within the 2011–2018 range.
Ideal for 6.7L Cummins owners who want a reliable replacement without performance modifications. Does not fit 5.7L or 6.4L gasoline engines.
Pros
- Lowest price
- OEM-style; direct-fit
- 6.7L Cummins
Cons
- 2007–2011 only (fits 2011)
- Not performance-oriented
MBRP Cat Back Exhaust System (Single Side Exit, Aluminized): Ram 6.4L 392 2500 & 3500 2014 – 2025
MBRP Single Side Exit Aluminized delivers strong value for 6.4L 392 owners. 4-inch mandrel-bent tubing, single side exit. Street tone with aggressive character under throttle. Fits 2014–2025 Ram 2500 and 3500 6.4L. Direct bolt-on. 3-year warranty.
Ideal for 6.4L owners who want a cost-effective upgrade. Also available in 409 stainless. Best value for gasoline heavy-duty Rams.
Pros
- Low price for 6.4L
- 4" mandrel-bent; street tone
- Fits 2500 & 3500
Cons
- Aluminized (not stainless)
Flowmaster Flow FX Exhaust System: Dodge Ram 5.7L Hemi 2500 / 3500 2003 – 2012
Flowmaster Flow FX is the primary cat-back option for 5.7L Hemi Rams. 3-inch mandrel-bent stainless, Flow FX straight-through muffler. Deep exterior tone, moderate interior. Single side exit with 4.5-inch black ceramic tip. Fits 2003–2012 Ram 2500/3500 5.7L. Lifetime Limited Warranty.
Ideal for 2011–2012 Ram 2500 5.7L owners. The 5.7L was phased out in 2013; 2014+ uses 6.4L 392.
Pros
- Only dedicated 5.7L option
- 409 stainless; Lifetime Warranty
- Moderate tone
Cons
- 5.7L only (2011–2012)
Gibson Dual Extreme Cat-Back Perf Exhaust Aluminized Tips (REAR): RAM 2500 Big Horn 6.4L
Gibson Dual Extreme delivers an aggressive tone with dual rear exit. 2.5-inch mandrel-bent, aluminized tips. Fits 2014–2017 Ram 2500 Big Horn 6.4L. Trim-specific fitment. Lifetime Limited Warranty. Deep, commanding exhaust note.
Ideal for Big Horn owners who want dual rear exit and Gibson’s signature sound. Verify Big Horn trim before ordering.
Pros
- Dual rear exit; aggressive tone
- Lifetime Warranty
- Strong sale price
Cons
- Big Horn trim only
MBRP Exhaust System (Dual Split, Side Exit, 409 Stainless): Ram 6.4L 392 2014 – 2023 (2500 ONLY)
MBRP Dual Split 409 delivers the best balance of performance, sound, and durability for 6.4L 392. 4-inch mandrel-bent T409 stainless, dual side exit. Race Profile for aggressive tone. Polished T304 tips. 2500 only (excludes 3500). 3-year warranty.
Ideal for Ram 2500 6.4L owners who want stainless construction and a bold dual side exit. Does not fit 3500.
Pros
- 409 stainless; 4" mandrel-bent
- Dual side exit; Race tone
- 3-year warranty
Cons
- 2500 only (no 3500)
Flowmaster American Thunder Exhaust System: Dodge Ram 6.4L 392 2500 2014 – 2023
Flowmaster American Thunder delivers the most aggressive sound for 6.4L 392. 50 Series HD muffler, dual 3-inch mandrel-bent stainless tailpipes. Moderate interior, aggressive exterior. Rear or side exit options for towing. Fits 2014–2024 Ram 2500 6.4L (coil spring rear). Lifetime Limited Warranty.
Ideal for owners who want maximum presence. Can drone at cruise; research sound clips before buying.
Pros
- 409 stainless; Lifetime Warranty
- Aggressive tone; dual 3"
- Rear or side exit
Cons
- Can drone at cruise
- 2500 only
Borla S-Type Cat-Back Exhaust System (Polished Tip): Ram 6.4L 392 2014 – 2018 (2500 & 3500)
Borla S-Type delivers Borla’s signature S-Type sound — deep and aggressive under acceleration, refined and drone-free at cruise. 304 stainless, mandrel-bent. Fits all cab and bed configs except dual rear wheels. Uses factory transition pipe. Million-Mile Warranty.
Ideal for daily drivers who want maximum sound quality without cabin drone. Premium option with best corrosion resistance.
Pros
- 304 stainless; Million-Mile Warranty
- Drone-free; refined at cruise
- Fits 2500 & 3500 (excl. dually)
Cons
- Excludes dually
- Premium price
Fitment Reference
Which Kits Fit Your Engine?
| Engine | MagnaFlow | MBRP Al | Flow FX | Gibson | MBRP 409 | Am. Thunder | Borla |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6.7L Cummins (07–11) | ✓ | ✗ | ✗ | ✗ | ✗ | ✗ | ✗ |
| 5.7L Hemi (11–12) | ✗ | ✗ | ✓ | ✗ | ✗ | ✗ | ✗ |
| 6.4L 392 (14–18) | ✗ | ✓ | ✗ | * | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
✓ = Confirmed • ✗ = Excluded • * = Big Horn trim only
Common Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the difference between cat-back and filter-back?
A cat-back replaces exhaust from the catalytic converter back (gasoline). A filter-back replaces exhaust from the diesel particulate filter back (6.7L Cummins). Both are 50-state legal. Diesel systems do not fit gasoline trucks.
Will an aftermarket exhaust void my warranty?
Cat-back and filter-back systems install behind emissions equipment. They generally do not void the vehicle warranty. Check with your dealer if concerned.
Do exhaust systems add horsepower?
Yes. Cat-back systems reduce backpressure and improve flow. Expect modest gains (5–15 HP / lb-ft) and improved throttle response. Diesel filter-backs can improve turbo spool.
What causes exhaust drone and how do I avoid it?
Drone is resonance at certain RPMs. Borla S-Type is designed for drone-free cruising. Flowmaster American Thunder can drone. MBRP Street and Gibson offer moderate tones.
304 vs 409 stainless: which is better?
304 stainless is more corrosion-resistant. 409 stainless is a step up from aluminized. Aluminized is budget-friendly; shorter life in salt climates.
I have a 2011 Ram 2500 5.7L. What fits?
The Flowmaster Flow FX (717867) is the primary cat-back for 5.7L Hemi Rams. It fits 2003–2012, including 2011–2012. The 5.7L was replaced by the 6.4L 392 in 2014.
Ready to Upgrade Your Ram 2500 Exhaust?
Compare systems above, pick the right fit for your engine (5.7L, 6.4L, or 6.7L), and order with confidence. Need help? Contact us.
