Specifications:
Brand Name: FLASHARK
Certificate: ISO9001:2000
Application: Automobile Exhaust Header
Material: Stainless Steel
Surface: Mirror Polish
Model: EH28273
Inlet / Outlet: 1.76" / 2.89"
V-band Clamp size:3.0"
(Allowable Error range:0.1-0.2inch)
Header Type: Turbo
Primary Diameter: 1-7/8 in. (48mm)
Collector Diameter: 3 in. (76mm)
Head Flange Thickness：3/8 in. (9.5mm)
Pipe Thickness: 16 gauge (1.5mm)
Exhaust Header VS Manifold, which is the better choice?
The structural differences between exhaust headers and manifolds are the material and size. From the material, exhaust headers are made of lighter, thinner steel, while exhaust manifolds are made of thick iron. Exhaust headers are also longer than exhaust manifolds. When in use, exhaust manifolds create back pressure, which lowers performance. Because each cylinder of the engine is given its own tube, however, headers eliminate this problem; thus, allowing the gases to exit without the creation of back pressure. Therefore, exhaust headers are a BETTER choice than an exhaust manifold.
Replacing or upgrading your exhaust header is necessary for both engine performance and sound. Whether on or off the track, exhaust headers provide more horsepower and improved exhaust sound. FLASHARK offers many products to help you create your own custom engine headers. It's really easy and convenient to use: direct bolt-on, no modification needed.
Fitment & Compatibility
⚠️ CRITICAL FITMENT RULE (MUST READ BEFORE PURCHASE)
✅ Verified Fitment
| Brand | Model | Year Range | Full Compatible Specs |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cadillac | CTS | 2004-2013 | LS-based small block V8 applications; 5.7L/6.0L/6.2L V8; designed for LS1/LS2/LS3/LS6/LSX; can be used for single/twin turbo builds; up and forward facing |
Q1: Which specific model years and engine options of the Cadillac CTS do these FLASHARK exhaust headers fit?
A1: These FLASHARK performance exhaust headers are precision-engineered for the 2004-2013 Cadillac CTS platforms. They are optimized specifically for the popular 3.6L V6 engine models—including the LY7, LLT, and high-feature LFX direct-injection variants—across both the first-generation (2004-2007) and second-generation (2008-2013) chassis. Please verify your engine displacement before purchasing to ensure perfect port alignment.
Q2: Do these headers fit the high-performance Cadillac CTS-V V8 models or AWD (All-Wheel Drive) configurations?
A2: No, these specific headers are designed exclusively for Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD) Cadillac CTS models equipped with V6 engines. They will not fit the CTS-V high-performance models featuring the 5.7L LS6, 6.0L LS2, or supercharged 6.2L LSA V8 engines due to completely different cylinder head configurations and exhaust port spacing. For All-Wheel Drive (AWD) V6 models, clearance around the front axle and transfer case is extremely restricted, so minor custom clearance modifications may be required.
Q3: What material are these FLASHARK Cadillac CTS headers made of, and how do they resist warping?
A3: Every FLASHARK header set is meticulously constructed from premium, heavy-gauge T304 Stainless Steel featuring smooth, mandrel-bent primary tubes for maximum exhaust velocity. To prevent the notorious exhaust leaks common in cheap alternatives, our headers are engineered with extra-thick, CNC-machined flanges that resist warping, cracking, and severe thermal distortion under extreme engine bay temperatures.
Q4: Are these 2004-2013 Cadillac CTS headers catless, and will they trigger a Check Engine Light (CEL)?
A4: Yes, these are high-flow catless performance racing headers designed to completely eliminate the heavy, highly restrictive factory exhaust manifolds and integrated catalytic converters. Because they bypass the factory emission cats, your secondary oxygen (O2) sensors will inevitably detect the alteration and trigger a Check Engine Light (CEL). To clear the light and unlock the full horsepower potential of the modification, a custom Stage 2 ECU tune or high-quality O2 sensor spacers are highly recommended.
Q5: What kind of horsepower and torque gains can I expect on my 3.6L V6 Cadillac CTS?
A5: Upgrading your restrictive stock factory manifolds to FLASHARK high-flowing, equal-length stainless steel headers can deliver a dyno-proven increase of approximately 10 to 18 horsepower and 12 to 16 lb-ft of torque. You will experience a significantly crisper throttle response, faster engine spool-up, and a much stronger pull through the mid-to-high RPM powerband.
Q6: How will installing these high-flow headers affect the exhaust sound profile of my Cadillac CTS?
A6: These headers will completely transform your luxury sedan's sound profile, giving the Cadillac V6 engine a deep, aggressive, and throaty sport tone under heavy acceleration. When paired with your stock OEM factory cat-back exhaust system, the volume remains sophisticated and drone-free for daily street driving. If paired with an aftermarket cat-back system, it delivers an exotic, high-pitched track exhaust scream.
Q7: Do these FLASHARK headers feature built-in oxygen (O2) sensor bungs, and are extensions needed?
A7: Yes, these headers feature pre-welded, precision-placed O2 sensor bungs that mirror the factory orientation to accommodate your stock oxygen sensors. However, due to the elongated and streamlined design of performance long-tube headers compared to stubby stock manifolds, standard O2 sensor wiring harness extensions may be required during installation depending on your specific model year and sensor layout.
Q8: Is the installation a direct bolt-on process, and does the package include gaskets and hardware?
A8: These FLASHARK headers are engineered as a physical direct bolt-on replacement for the factory manifolds, meaning no custom cutting, bending, or welding is required to mate them to the cylinder head ports. Each kit comes fully complete with heavy-duty multi-layer steel (MLS) head gaskets and the necessary collector connection hardware to ensure an absolute, blowout-proof seal right out of the box.
Q9: Will these performance headers clear the steering shaft and other critical engine bay components?
A9: Yes, our Cadillac CTS headers are precision-modeled via advanced CAD engineering to ensure flawless clearance around the steering column shaft, starter motor, brake lines, and chassis rails on Left-Hand Drive (LHD) vehicles. The specialized routing ensures maximum airflow clearance without making contact with surrounding engine bay accessories.
Q10: Are these high-flow stainless steel catless headers street legal for daily driving?
A10: Because these high-flow headers remove the integrated factory catalytic converters, they are strictly intended for track racing, closed-course competition, and off-road exhibition use only. They are not legal for street use in regions with strict emission standards and may not pass local vehicle smog or tailpipe inspections. Please check your local state and regional regulations before purchasing.
Q11: Why should I choose FLASHARK exhaust headers over alternative generic budget brands?
A11: FLASHARK sets itself apart by refusing to cut corners on material and build quality. While generic budget brands often utilize cheap T201 steel or thin flanges that rust and warp within months, FLASHARK uses high-grade T304 stainless steel, ultra-thick flanges, and precise TIG welds. Backed by fast US domestic shipping, an included gasket kit, and a comprehensive structural warranty, we offer premium race-grade engineering at an affordable price point.
Q12: What is the shipping timeline and warranty coverage for these Cadillac CTS headers?
A12: We provide fast, completely free domestic shipping across the United States, with orders processing instantly and arriving at your destination within 3 to 5 business days. All of our performance products are manufactured under strict ISO9001 certified quality controls and come backed by our reliable manufacturer structural warranty against material cracking and defects to guarantee absolute peace of mind.