I have the 2.2L engine, and currently, my only mod is a K&N Typhoon intake. I am thinking about replacing the header, down pipe, and exhaust. My goal is to make the car sound deeper (maybe even some burbles and pops when decelerating????), and maybe get some performance gains (10 HP~). Right now I am thinking about the ZZP Mid-length header and downpipe combo (400 cell catted), and an eBay cat-back exhaust to keep the project under $600. I will have access to a lift.

1) How difficult is a header install? I have some basic mechanical knowledge, but not tons.
2) If a header install is fairly difficult, would a new down pipe and a slightly more expensive exhaust (Tsudo) be enough to reach my goals?
3) If I were to go catless (I'm from MN, not too worried about emissions), would it be too loud for a daily driver?

If anyone has any other ideas or suggestions, please feel free to let me know!

 

What year is your 2.2L? If it's a 2005-2006 it will be hard to find a tune, which will make catless a non-option.

Header installs are moderately difficult. They become a pain in the butt if your exhaust bolts are warped or if they snap off when trying to remove them.

The brand of exhaust matters more for the type of sound you want and less for the amount of power you will gain. Power gains from header and full exhaust is not much, generally around 5 hp.

If you have a 2007 or newer, a good tune will net you about 10-12 hp, so like 15 or so with your exhaust combo in total.

 

I have a 2005. So, skip the header, especially since the exhaust system hasn't been worked on in 10-11 years? And stick with a catted option to keep everything running smooth?

 

Sounds like your best bet. Don't expect much power out of the downpipe. The catback helps slightly and a header helps slightly, but I think a high flow cat won't do much (unless your current cat is trashed then that's a different story)

 

Would a less restrictive cat help with sound at all? Or would I be better off just putting all of my money towards the cat back?