Asking because I need a new exhaust system installed soon. I know most new cars come with some flex components along the length. And I know vibration is a big factor that kills headers. Just wondering if I should have the shop put flex sections in somewhere between the collectors and x-pipe. Any thoughts? Any recommendations on brands for these parts?

I actually have a exhaust shop at home. The new cars have flex pipes mainly because they are front wheel drive and the engine twist up and causes major vibrations and will break the welds and joints if they are not installed. I have installed flex pipes right off the headers on older cars and i dont see a difference in vibration as long as you use good hangers.

This sums it up , cars with transverse mounted engines have flex pipes, I can't say I seen them on conventional mounted engine configuration.

Thanks, good info. I'll check again with the shop that will be doing the work. I think their initial response was "we can, but its just more that can go bad" or some such.

Thanks again.

If you are going to add sections, buy the best that money can buy. Also keep in mind, bellows cannot move torsionally (twist), it can only move a little back & forth. Class 8 Semis ALL use flex in their exhaust systems. The post-2007 trucks use bellows almost exclusively & they have a LOT of failure problems still. Old-fashioned wound exhaust flex is the ticket - get only 304 stainless grade. It's available in any diameter you are going to need, but you may have a tough time finding the good stuff. PM me if you need a source to get some from & part #'s & brand.