Exhaust
Header Pipe
A header pipe is the front exhaust pipe that carries gases from the exhaust manifold toward the rest of the system. We list 25 header pipes from $61 to $314 for vehicles from 1986-2011, mostly from Bosal, with fits for the Subaru Impreza and Forester, Honda Accord, Mazda MPV and Volkswagen Vanagon.
Signs of a failing header pipe
Header pipes sit close to the engine and take high heat and road moisture, so they rust and crack, often at welds and flex joints. Signs include a ticking or blowing noise that is loud on a cold start, an exhaust smell in the cabin, and rattling from loose heat shields.
An exhaust leak ahead of the oxygen sensor can upset sensor readings and set a check engine light.
Matching position and design
Header pipes are shaped for a specific engine and chassis. On some engines, such as horizontally opposed Subaru engines and V6 engines, the pipe joins two banks, and listings may show left, right or front positions. Some designs include a flex section or sensor bungs.
Use the fitment table to confirm engine, drive type and year. Compare flange shapes, bolt counts and sensor ports with your old pipe.
Install tips
Soak the studs and nuts with penetrating oil the day before, and replace studs that break or strip. Use new gaskets and new nuts at each joint.
Support the vehicle on jack stands and let the exhaust cool fully before you start. Transfer oxygen sensors carefully, and check for leaks with the engine running once everything is tight. Retighten flange nuts after the first few heat cycles.
Header Pipe questions
What is the difference between a header pipe and a header?
A header is a tubular replacement for the exhaust manifold. A header pipe, also called a front pipe or down pipe, connects the manifold to the catalytic converter or the rest of the exhaust.
Can a cracked header pipe cause a check engine light?
Yes. A leak before the oxygen sensor can let outside air in and upset sensor readings, which may set a lean or sensor code. Fix the leak before replacing any sensor.
Do header pipes come with gaskets?
Many do not. Check the listing contents and plan to buy new gaskets and nuts, since old ones rarely seal well after removal. Penetrating oil helps with old studs.