I was told by my dealer that I have a leak in my muffler and need a new one. The quoted me $1300.

I'm thinking I would rather upgrade to aftermarket which I'm thinking should be cheaper. Any thoughts on a good replacement?

 

think the majority is goin to tell you get an HKS axle back for muffler. then get a cpe midpipe and HR y pipe.

then their will be some ppl that will recommend the 03-04 stock muffler.

But if you decide that you want a stock 05-06 muffler, i can prob sell you mine for pretty cheap.

 

try moving this to the Exhaust forum in the TECH section.

if you want stock sound & look/fitment, stay with OEM parts. you shouldn't have difficulty finding a good condition used muffler for cheap. i'd sell mine for $50.

if you want a more aggresive exhaust note then the HKS can be a good choice. they are $400 new, much less used.

obviously your dealer is trying to soak you at $1300, that's crazy. good for you to check here first and not simply saying "ok" to their rediculous quote.

 

It kills me that dealers try to take advantage of people with such ridiculous costs for parts/maintenance.

Jude 26 - I agree w/ canucklehead, look for a used one on here for cheap (preferably someone from the south where they're not exposed to road salt). Not sure if you knew this, but our mufflers are bolt-on with simply 2 bolts and no welding is involved. I put my HKS muffler on myself w/ a jack & 2 jack stands & it's a very easy process (and I'm not THAT car saavy). $1,300 for that is an a$$ raping x 4! If you would rather get new OEM, then you can pick one up for $334.26 plus shipping here: http://www.trademotion.com/partlocat...06&catalogid=1 I have the HKS and love it. Good luck!

 

Buy a used one from someone on this site for less than $100. If you want a little more volume (about 10-15%, no rasp), consider getting one off a 03/04 sedan because the 03/04 muffler is about 15% smaller. You'll need to buy the OEM 03/04 muffler bracket ($40 new) to make this work. I'd also recommend painting the muffler flat black and getting the OEM Altima "fat boy" exhaust tips (do a search) to make the muffler stand out a bit more. No power will be found with an aftermarket muffler plus you'll likely introduce drone and some rasp.