#Exhaust

Problems with catalytic converters are one of the most common causes of check engine lights, but they’re extremely expensive to replace, so if you’re having issues, it makes sense to try one of the best catalytic converter cleaners first.

If you see different colored exhaust fumes it’s time to pay attention to your car. Even if your vehicle isn’t flashing any warning lights, the smoke coming from your exhaust is a signal that something might not be working properly.

No doubt it’s a question on anyone’s mind who bought a Subaru BRZ or Scion FR-S this year: when will there be a higher-performing version? 

Porsche owners driving a 2011-12 Panamera Turbo, 2012 Panamera Turbo S or 2012 Cayenne Turbo should be advised: their car’s forced induction system might be faulty.

Of all the special edition vehicles Mopar has on display today at the Chicago Auto Show, the Dodge Dart is probably the most attractive.

Now, BMW’s M-division has now created a new performance exhaust for the M3, which not only sounds better, but is also lighter than the standard exhaust system because it is made from Inconel – the same substance used for F1 race car exhausts. This system is 20% lighter than the standard exhaust, and since it has a free-flow setup the engine sounds even better than it already does.

It’s not a cheap upgrade though. This new exhaust will cost $4,374 and that doesn’t include installation.

However, what if you can’t afford an M3 right now? Not to worry, BMW is offering this incredible sound as a ringtone through the following link: bmwusa.com/news.

Check out video of the exhaust after the jump:

Even though Mercedes-Benz‘s C250 CGI isn’t the most exciting of sedans, being part of its BlueEfficiency line, VÄTH has made the 1.8L model more powerful and more fun to drive. Their tuning package gives the C250 CGI the capability of hitting 270-hp, a major increase from the factory’s 204-hp.

For those looking for a nice increase in power without breaking the bank account, VÄTH offers a V25 tuning kit for around $1,535 U.S. which bumps power to 255-hp and 273 ft-lbs of torque. Max speed is also bumped up to 161 mph. But those looking for the 270-hp peak, an upgraded intercooler is available for around $1,430 and the sports exhaust system is $2,575. Those numbers are a bit pointless, however, as we don’t get the 250 model on this side of the Atlantic.

On the outside is a fine collection of carbon fiber goods: hood ($5,940), front lip ($1,815), rear diffuser ($2,270), and trunk spoiler ($425). A brake upgrade featuring 14-inch rotors in the front with 6-piston calipers and 12.5-inch rotors in the rear with 4-piston calipers can be had for around $6,860. A staggered set of 19-inch wheels complete with tires are priced at $5,180.

VÄTH mentions suspension upgrades in their press release, which sounds like a tuned coilover set of some sort, but details and pricing are left out. They close off the tuning package with some carbon fiber interior trim and Alcantara roof liner for $1,255.

GALLERY: VÄTH Mercedes-Benz C250 CGI

Official press release available after the break.

We’ve seen an abundance of Japanese tuners turning their attention to German cars; so now it’s interesting to see German tuner Cobra Technology and Lifestyle, turning their attention to Japanese cars. Dubbed the Cobra N+ Sports Kit for the Nissan 370Z Roadster (applicable to standard coupes as well), Cobra brings a little bit of German engineering to one of Japan’s most popular sports cars.

The aesthetics are pretty standard with a front spoiler and rear diffuser done in a “carbon-fiber-look” variety. Here’s to guessing it’s not authentic carbon fiber, but looks the part. Taking a closer look at the rear diffuser, however reveals the most interesting component to Cobra’s tuning package – its remote-controlled exhaust.

Much like what Audi offers stock on the RS4, Cobra’s 370Z exhaust incorporates a butterfly valve that can be opened or closed, affecting the performance and tone of the exhaust. Something that is often seen on German vehicles, it’s nice to see the German engineers transitioning over some of that technology to Japanese models.

Cobra’s N+ kit also includes your run-of-the-mill lowering springs and their own set of 19-inch Cobra N+ CN22 wheels that sports a simplistic and minimal design. Hey and best of all, their parts come with a 2-year warranty with unlimited miles, showcasing their quality.

Check out the video and official press release after the break.

While most of the popular aftermarket manufacturers in Japan are welcoming the hybrid craze with open arms, Spoon Sports has been quiet as of late. This can mostly be attributed to the fact that Spoon focuses and specializes with the Honda platform, and quite honestly, Honda hasn’t had an attractive enough hybrid platform in the recent years.  But this is all about to change, with the CR-Z gaining a lot of momentum as the new “hot-hatch” appealing to passionate Honda aficionados worldwide.  Needless to say it’s a perfect fit for Spoon Sports and their tuning prowess.