Exhaust drone can be a real problem that keeps you from enjoying the sound of your ride. It's a common issue with aftermarket exhaust systems and is most noticeable at highway speeds. Not only is it annoying, but if it's severe enough, it can potentially cause hearing damage. 

In this post, we'll cover what exhaust drone is, what causes it, and what can be done about it. Most importantly, we'll discuss how to avoid it when choosing an exhaust system. 

What Is Exhaust Drone?

Some aftermarket exhaust systems make an annoying monotone sound and vibration at certain speeds. The problem usually occurs when the frequency of the exhaust matches the engine frequency. It's most noticeable at highway speeds or when the engine is in a specific range, usually between 2,000 and 3,000 RPM.

The droning sound can range from mildly annoying to a loud buzzing noise that you can feel as well as hear. In extreme cases, it can even cause damage to your hearing.  

What Causes Exhaust Drone?

Image Credit: MotorTrend

When the sound frequencies of the engine and exhaust match, they can resonate with each other creating the exhaust drone. The droning sound, as well as frequency, is different for every car and aftermarket exhaust system but is usually more common with loud, low-frequency exhaust systems.   

Exhaust drone is more likely to occur with systems designed to provide a louder exhaust volume. Typically the louder the exhaust, the worse the drone. If you like to feel your exhaust as well as hear it, you're far more likely to experience this problem. 

How Can You Fix Exhaust Drone?

The best way to fix the problem is to replace your existing exhaust system with a high-quality aftermarket system that uses True Helmholtz Technology to eliminate the drone. True Helmholtz Technology changes the exhaust pressure to eliminate droning and still provide a rich, full exhaust sound. That's why we use it on all of our exhaust systems. 

If you plan to keep your existing exhaust system, you may be able to reduce the drone by changing mufflers or adding a resonator. However, you'll find the drone never goes away completely. Additionally, any money you spend trying to fix a bad exhaust drone will add up and could almost pay for a new system. 

The other option is to live with the drone and try to get used to it. Or you may learn how to minimize it by avoiding the speeds that cause the loudest drone.  

All Of Thermal R&D's Exhaust Systems Use True Helmholtz Technology

Thermal R&D has been making top-quality drone-free systems in Southern California for decades. Our systems feature True Helmholtz Technology and are made in the U.S.A. by our team of talented fabricators and finishers. 

We make exhaust systems for a wide variety of cars and trucks, including popular enthusiast models and smaller niche vehicles other companies won't touch. All of our products are made from durable, premium quality materials like T304 stainless steel, which is one of many reasons why we offer a lifetime warranty. 

Check out our videos for more information, or if you have questions, contact us online or call us at (661)723-2872.