Scion FR-S Subaru BRZ Toyota 86 Axleback Sound Guide

By REMARK Exhaust | Published: 2026-10-30

Category: Product Reviews

Learn how axleback design, tip size, and muffler type affect the exhaust note on your FR-S, BRZ, or 86. Includes step-by-step advice for choosing the right sound level.

Quick answer

The axleback exhaust you choose for your FR-S, BRZ, or 86 directly controls the volume and tone you hear inside the cabin. A standard dual-exit axleback delivers a deep, moderate note for daily driving, while a BOSO Edition creates a louder, more aggressive sound with visible angled tips.

What determines the sound of an axleback

The muffler canister size, internal baffling, and tip diameter all shape the exhaust note. A larger canister with more packing material absorbs more noise, producing a deeper tone without excessive volume. Smaller or straight-through designs let more sound pass, increasing sharpness and volume. Tip size also plays a role: larger tips (like 4.5-inch slant cut) can deepen the note slightly, but the muffler design remains the primary factor.

On the FA20 and similar boxer engines, the exhaust note is naturally asymmetric due to unequal-length headers. A well-designed axleback smooths out the rumble without adding drone at highway speeds.

Trade-offs between a standard and BOSO axleback

A standard dual-exit axleback (like the REMARK 304 stainless steel version) is a bolt-on upgrade that keeps the sound civilized for daily commuting. It deepens the tone without being overly loud, making it suitable for neighborhoods and long drives. The BOSO Edition, on the other hand, uses a more open design and angled tips that project sound outward. This increases exterior volume and gives a more aggressive appearance, but may attract more attention and could be too loud for some drivers.

Both options are axleback-only, meaning they replace the rear muffler section while keeping the factory midpipe. This simplifies installation but limits how much the overall volume changes compared to a full catback system.

How to choose the right axleback sound for your FR-S, BRZ, or 86

1. Decide your volume tolerance: Assess how much cabin noise you can accept. If you daily-drive the car or take long highway trips, a standard axleback with a packed muffler (like the REMARK 304 stainless model) keeps the tone deep without drone. If you use the car mostly for weekends or track days, a louder design like the BOSO Edition may be more exciting. Common mistake: assuming a louder exhaust always sounds better. Drone at cruising speed can make long drives tiring.
2. Choose tip style and size: Larger tips (4.5" slant cut) fill the rear bumper cutouts and add a subtle visual punch. They also slightly alter the exhaust note by reducing backpressure at the outlet. Angled tips (as on the BOSO Edition) direct sound outward, increasing perceived volume for bystanders. Check that the tip diameter clears your rear bumper cutout. Most aftermarket axlebacks are designed to fit, but verify if you have a non-OEM diffuser.
3. Confirm bolt-on compatibility: Both standard and BOSO axlebacks from REMARK bolt directly to the factory midpipe with gaskets and hardware included. No cutting, welding, or trimming is needed. This makes installation a straightforward 30-60 minute job with basic hand tools. If your car has a non-factory midpipe, confirm the flange pattern matches. Most OEM-replacement midpipes work, but aftermarket units may require adapters.
4. Listen to sound clips and read owner feedback: Before buying, search for in-car and exterior sound clips of the specific axleback model on your year and trim. Owner forums often share real-world impressions of volume, drone, and tip fitment. This helps set expectations beyond product descriptions. Remember that sound clips recorded on phones compress audio; they give a general idea but not the exact in-person experience.

Product facts

Muffler Axleback - Scion FR-S / Subaru BRZ / Toyota 86 [2013-2021]: Easy bolt-on dual exit axleback exhaust for 2013-2021 FR-S/BRZ/86. Works with OE midpipe. Produces a nice deep tone without being overly loud. Large 4.5" slant cut tips. Constructed of 304 stainless steel. This is the ideal choice if you want a noticeable but daily-friendly sound upgrade with no cutting or welding required.
Muffler Axleback - Scion FR-S / Subaru BRZ / Toyota 86 [2013-2021]
Axleback (BOSO Edition) - Scion FR-S/ Subaru BRZ / Toyota 86 [2013-2021]: BOSO Edition axleback for 2013-2021 FR-S/BRZ/86. Used part with scratches and blemishes to be anticipated. Includes free ground shipping to lower 48 states. If you prefer a louder, more aggressive exhaust note and don't mind cosmetic imperfections, this offers a lower-cost entry point with a distinct sound profile.
Axleback (BOSO Edition) - Scion FR-S/ Subaru BRZ / Toyota 86 [2013-2021]