Cat-Back Exhaust System for the 2002–2006 Acura RSX (DC5)
This Flashark cat-back exhaust is a complete replacement for the factory exhaust sections behind the catalytic converter on the 2002–2006 Acura RSX (DC5) coupe. It is listed for RSX Type-S and Base models with the 2.0L four-cylinder engine, and it pairs 2.36 in OD mandrel-bent stainless main piping with a polished muffler section and a 4 in burnt-finish tip. Clamps, gaskets, bolts, and nuts are included in the kit.
The system is built around the stock catalytic converter. Flashark describes it as a bolt-on design whose flanges connect at the factory converter outlet, with no cutting or welding required. Because the kit starts at the converter, the catalytic converter stays in place, and the system does not include a header, downpipe, test pipe, or converter of its own.
Specifications
| Brand | Flashark |
|---|---|
| SKU | FLES08165 |
| Product Type | Cat-Back Exhaust System |
| System Coverage | From the catalytic converter outlet to the rear of the vehicle |
| System Configuration | Single-exit cat-back set; single side rear exit |
| Main Piping Diameter | 2.36 in OD |
| Muffler Configuration | Single muffler |
| Resonator | 1 resonator |
| Tip Quantity | 1 |
| Tip Size | 4 in diameter |
| Tip Finish | Burnt |
| Material | 201 Stainless Steel |
| Surface Finish | Polished (bright silver) |
| Installation | Bolt-on; no cutting or welding |
| Hardware Included | Clamps, gaskets, bolts, and nuts |
Key Features
- True cat-back coverage: The kit replaces the exhaust from the catalytic converter outlet to the rear of the RSX, so the factory converter and everything ahead of it stay in place. That is the exact scope to expect before you order.
- 2.36 in OD mandrel-bent main piping: The main pipes are formed with mandrel bends to hold a consistent diameter through curved sections, and the size is stated as outside diameter. This is the pipe figure to compare when matching the kit to your existing setup.
- 201 stainless steel with polished surfaces: The system is built from 201 stainless steel with polished silver surfaces, CNC-machined flanges, and TIG-welded joints, which defines the finished look of the system and its connection points.
- 4 in burnt-finish tip: The muffler outlet uses a 4 in tip with a burnt finish, giving the rear of the car a distinct aftermarket look rather than a plain polished outlet.
- Bolt-on connection at the factory converter: Flashark specifies a bolt-on installation with flanges that meet the factory catalytic converter outlet, so no cutting or welding is described for a standard install.
- Mounting hardware included: Clamps, gaskets, and installation hardware ship with the kit, so the mounting parts do not need to be sourced separately.
What's Included and Not Included
- Included: All exhaust piping and muffler sections from the catalytic converter outlet back to the rear of the vehicle, including the polished muffler section with the 4 in burnt-finish tip.
- Included: Clamps, gaskets, and installation hardware.
- Not included: The catalytic converter, header, downpipe, or test pipe. The factory catalytic converter is retained on the vehicle.
Check Before Ordering
- Confirm your vehicle matches the fitment row above: a 2002–2006 Acura RSX 2-door coupe with the 2.0L four-cylinder engine (Type-S and Base models are listed). Verify the engine and body configuration of your specific car before purchase.
- The kit is a cat-back system, so it connects at the outlet of the factory catalytic converter. Confirm your RSX still has its stock converter and that the converter outlet area is in serviceable condition.
- If your vehicle has been modified ahead of the converter or uses a non-stock converter, confirm compatibility with your setup before ordering.
Shipping & Returns
Free U.S. Shipping: Orders are typically processed within 1–2 business days and delivered within 7–9 business days. Additional charges may apply to remote areas.
30-Day Returns: Unopened and unused items in their original packaging may be returned within 30 days of receipt. Return shipping is covered for verified quality issues.
Worry-Free Delivery: Optional protection against eligible loss, theft, delay, or transit damage is available at checkout.
Fitment & Compatibility
- ✅Fits factory-equipped vehicles with listed configurations.
- Please confirm vehicle specifications before ordering.
| YEAR | MAKE | MODEL | ENGINE | BODY |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2002-2006 | Acura | RSX | 2.0L L4 | Coupe — 2 Door |
2002-2006 Acura RSX Cat-Back Exhaust FAQs
Q1: Which Acura RSX models does this cat-back exhaust fit?
A1: The fitment table covers the 2002–2006 Acura RSX coupe (DC5) with the 2.0L four-cylinder engine, including Type-S and Base models as listed on this page. Confirm that your car matches the listed model year, engine, and 2-door coupe body before ordering.
Q2: What does this cat-back system replace?
A2: It replaces the exhaust sections from the catalytic converter outlet back to the rear of the car: the mid-piping, the muffler section, and the tip. The factory catalytic converter and the components ahead of it remain in place, which is what makes this a converter-back, or "cat-back," system.
Q3: What is included in the box?
A3: The kit includes the cat-back piping and the muffler section with its 4 in burnt-finish tip, plus clamps, gaskets, and installation hardware. The catalytic converter and front exhaust components are not part of the kit.
Q4: Will this system fit a 2005 Acura RSX?
A4: 2005 falls inside the listed 2002–2006 range. If your RSX has the 2.0L four-cylinder and the 2-door coupe body shown in the fitment table, it matches the listed configuration for this kit.
Q5: Do I need to cut or weld anything to install it?
A5: Flashark describes this as a bolt-on system: the flanges connect at the factory catalytic converter outlet, and no cutting or welding is required for the standard installation. The final fit can depend on the condition of your existing exhaust and underbody, so confirm the mounting area if your car has been modified or has corroded factory hardware.
Q6: Does this kit include a catalytic converter or test pipe?
A6: No. This is a cat-back system, so it starts behind the catalytic converter. The kit does not include a catalytic converter, test pipe, or header, and the factory converter is meant to stay installed on the car.
Q7: Is a tune required for this exhaust?
A7: The kit replaces mechanical exhaust sections behind the catalytic converter only. It does not include a tune, engine controller, or any wiring changes. Flashark does not specify a tuning requirement for this system, so treat tuning as vehicle-specific rather than part of this kit.
Q8: What are the main pipe and tip sizes?
A8: The specifications list 2.36 in OD main piping and a single 4 in diameter outlet tip with a burnt finish. The main-pipe figure is stated as outside diameter, and Flashark does not publish a separate inner-diameter value, so measure your existing system on the same basis if you are comparing sizes.
Q9: Will this exhaust cause a check-engine light (CEL)?
A9: Because the kit begins at the outlet of the factory catalytic converter, it does not replace or delete the converter. Flashark does not publish CEL test data for this system; an existing emissions-related code or a modified converter is a separate condition that this cat-back kit does not address.
Q10: What does "mandrel-bent" mean for this exhaust?
A10: Mandrel bending forms the curved pipe sections without pinching them, so the inside diameter remains consistent through each bend. It is a construction detail of the piping rather than a performance promise: the main piping in this kit is built with mandrel-bent stainless steel.
Q11: How should I care for the polished stainless and the burnt tip?
A11: Wash the exhaust with automotive soap and water to remove road grime. A non-abrasive metal polish can be used on the polished stainless areas; treat the burnt tip area gently to keep its surface finish intact.
Q12: Is there a sound clip or video of this exhaust?
A12: This listing does not currently include an audio or video sample of the system. Exhaust tone depends on the engine, the rest of the exhaust, and recording conditions, so Flashark does not make a sound claim for this kit in the listing.