If you're chasing that raw, unfiltered sound from your car’s exhaust, chances are you’ve come across the term resonator delete. But what is it, exactly? And how does it compare to a muffler delete or other mods?
Whether you’re tuning your ride for more bark, more flow, or a custom exhaust tone, this guide will walk you through what a resonator delete is, what it does, its current legal status, and whether it’s right for your setup.
What Is a Resonator Delete?
A resonator delete involves removing the resonator—a component in your exhaust system that’s designed to smooth out sound. Unlike a muffler (which quiets things down), a resonator focuses more on tuning the exhaust note, reducing drone and smoothing frequencies.
Removing it won't make your car dramatically louder, but it will change how your exhaust sounds—often making it a bit raspier, throatier, or more aggressive depending on your setup.
Quick Breakdown:
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Muffler = volume control
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Resonator = tone tuning
So when you delete the resonator, you’re getting less refinement and more raw tone.
Recommended Reading: Resonator vs. Muffler – Which One Reigns?
What Does a Resonator Delete Do?
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Changes Exhaust Tone – Makes the sound sharper, deeper or raspier—especially noticeable under throttle.
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Slight Volume Increase – Not as loud as a muffler delete, but you might notice a bump in decibels.
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Reduces Back Pressure Slightly – Especially on older or naturally aspirated engines, removing the resonator may marginally improve exhaust flow.
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Removes Some Cabin Comfort – You might hear a constant drone in your cabin, especially at cruising speeds.
While it sounds awesome on paper, there are a few things to consider before going full-send with a straight or x-pipe resonator delete.
Pros of a Resonator Delete
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Affordable Mod: Easy on the wallet, especially if you already have a bolt-on exhaust.
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Custom Sound: Perfect if you want to sharpen your exhaust note without going full straight-pipe.
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Slight Weight Reduction: Swapping it for straight pipe can shave a few kilos, potentially increasing power and fuel economy.
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Works With Other Mods: Since you’re only removing a small section at the end of your kit, this mode pairs well with performance mufflers, catback systems, or other performance upgrades.
Cons of a Resonator Delete
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May Add Cabin Drone: Resonators help cancel out droning frequencies—without one, longer drives will get noisy and may cause headaches.
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Not Always Legal: Some states have strict noise and emissions rules. Removing a resonator could make your car non-compliant.
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Might Not Sound “Better” to Everyone: Sound is subjective. If you live in a busy suburb, you might get cited by your neighbours for a loud, raspy exhaust.
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No Major Power Gains: You won’t see a noticeable horsepower increase unless it’s part of a larger performance system upgrade.
Recommended Reading: Top 6 Reasons to Upgrade Your Performance Exhaust System
Is a Res Delete Legal in Australia?
Here’s the short version: maybe—but check your state laws.
Each state and territory in Australia has its own legal exhaust noise limits, usually ranging from 90 to 96 decibels, depending on the car’s age and type. While a resonator delete might not instantly push you over the limit, it can raise red flags if your car gets pulled over or noise tested.
You’re more likely to run into legal trouble if:
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Your car is already loud
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You also have a muffler delete
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You drive in areas with active EPA or police enforcement
Recommended Reading: Make Your Exhaust Louder: 9+ Budget-Friendly Mods
Should You Do a Resonator Delete?
It really depends on what you’re after.
If your goal is to add a bit more growl or personality to your exhaust note—without going full straight-pipe—a resonator delete can be a great entry-level mod. It won’t make your car ridiculously loud, but it will give it a slightly deeper or more aggressive tone, especially when paired with a performance muffler or cat-back system.
That said, it’s not for everyone. If you’re daily driving your car and prefer a quiet, comfortable cabin on the freeway, the extra drone might get annoying over time. And if you’re already pushing the legal noise limit, removing the resonator could tip you over—so it’s worth checking your current setup before you commit.
Resonator deletes are often popular with weekend cars, track builds, or enthusiasts who want a rawer sound without completely deleting their muffler. But if you’re unsure, it’s smart to test the waters with a reversible bolt-on solution or consult a professional.
Bottom line? If you're chasing more tone and don't mind a little extra edge, a resonator delete might be just what your build needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will a resonator delete make your car louder?
Yes, but not dramatically. A resonator delete usually results in a moderate increase in volume, but the bigger change is in the exhaust tone. Instead of a muffled, smooth sound, you’ll likely hear a sharper, deeper, or raspier note—depending on your vehicle and setup.
It’s not as extreme as a muffler delete, but many drivers notice a more raw or aggressive sound, especially under acceleration. It can also introduce a bit of drone inside the cabin, particularly at highway speeds. So while it's not a full-blown volume boost, you'll definitely hear the difference.
What is the purpose of a resonator delete?
The goal of a resonator delete is to change the sound characteristics of your car’s exhaust. A resonator is designed to reduce certain sound frequencies and smooth out the tone—it helps eliminate drone and gives the exhaust a more refined finish.
Removing it (aka a resonator delete) takes that polish away, giving your exhaust note a more aggressive, unfiltered tone. It’s a popular mod for enthusiasts who want their car to sound sportier without going all-out on volume or removing the muffler.
Is a resonator delete bad for a car?
Not really—but it depends on your goals. A resonator delete won’t damage your engine or cause mechanical issues, especially if it’s done properly with quality parts. It’s a common mod among car enthusiasts and is usually safe when installed by a professional or with the right bolt-on kit.
Legally, it’s somewhat of a grey area—depending on your location, it could affect your compliance with noise or emissions regulations, so it’s worth checking your local laws before you go ahead with it.
Can you DIY a resonator delete?
Yes, you can do a resonator delete yourself—but unless you’re confident with welding or have a direct bolt-on kit, it’s usually best to leave it to a professional exhaust shop. Either way, we’ve got you covered. You’ll find everything you need online—from stainless steel pipes to bolts and clamps—so whether you’re tackling it yourself or leaving it to the pros, you can get the job done right.
Our Final Thoughts on Res Deletes
If you're after a more aggressive sound without going full straight-pipe, a resonator delete is a solid, budget-friendly mod. Just keep in mind it’s not always legal, and it won’t be the right fit for every setup.
Looking for a cleaner tone, more volume, or a combo of both? At DEA Performance, we stock a huge range of premium exhaust parts, mufflers, and performance systems to suit your style and your ride. Whether you're chasing loud, refined, or somewhere in between, we’ve got you covered.
Check out the blog for more tips, or shop our high-performance exhaust kits to get the most out of your vehicle today.
