For a Subaru Impreza, a new muffler part typically costs between about $60 and $350, with installed prices commonly ranging from $250 to $800 depending on the choice of OEM vs aftermarket, vehicle year, and local labor rates.
What determines the price
Several factors influence the final bill, including the muffler type, whether welding is needed, the age and condition of the exhaust system, and regional labor costs. The following sections break down typical costs you can expect.
Parts price ranges
The following reflects typical price ranges you can expect for muffler parts, before labor. Prices vary by retailer and model year.
- OEM Subaru muffler (direct replacement): typically about $120–$320 for the part, depending on generation and where you buy it (dealer vs. aftermarket Subaru parts suppliers).
- Aftermarket direct-fit mufflers: commonly $60–$200 for standard brands; stainless steel or performance variants can be $200–$350.
- Specialty or full-exhaust options (optional): if you buy a performance or dual-outlet muffler as part of a larger exhaust system, parts can run $250–$600 or more.
Prices reflect the most common configurations; exact numbers depend on model year, sub-model, and supplier. It’s worth noting that Impreza variants with more complex exhaust routing may face higher parts pricing.
Labor and installation costs
Installation costs hinge on shop rates and the condition of the vehicle’s exhaust. Below are the typical ranges to expect for muffler installation.
- Labor rates and time: Most auto shops charge about $75–$125 per hour; muffler replacement generally takes 0.5–2 hours depending on accessibility and rust.
- All-in installed price: With an aftermarket muffler, the total installed cost is commonly in the $150–$450 range; OEM parts and stainless steel systems can push the total to $400–$800 or more, especially if welding or additional pipes are required.
- Extra work: If the system is corroded or bracketry is seized, welding or cutting fees can raise the bill to $500–$900 or more.
To minimize surprises, get quotes that separate parts and labor and ask about any included warranty on the muffler and labor.
Choosing between OEM and aftermarket
Motorists often weigh fit, warranty, price, and potential performance differences when deciding between OEM and aftermarket mufflers. OEM parts mate precisely to Subaru’s exhaust layout and come with dealership or manufacturer warranties; aftermarket options can offer price savings or performance gains but may have varying warranties and fitment nuances.
Summary
For a Subaru Impreza, expect a muffler part to run roughly $60–$350, with installed price typically between $250 and $800. OEM parts tend to be pricier but offer exact fit and full warranty; aftermarket mufflers provide lower upfront cost, with labor still a factor. Always compare multiple quotes and consider the vehicle’s condition, your goals for the exhaust, and warranty terms to determine the best value.