5 Easy Ways on How Do I Make My L5P Turbo Louder

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Most large SUVs have strong engines, but a true fan will always try to find ways to improve them. With improving power and torque comes the improvement of the sound. Is there a better feeling than driving a big SUV, that comes with a great sound? We will briefly overview the different methods to achieve a louder turbo sound.

So, how do you make an L5P turbo louder? You can do some work under the hood and upgrade the intercooler and install the cold air intake system. The other option is upgrading the exhaust system using the downpipe, cat-back exhaust, and a muffler. Or you can combine. The only limit is money.

cars turbo sounds

Upgrades differ from each other, so we will go through them. That way you will see what would better suit you. Stay with us!

What Are Ways To Make A l5P Turbo Louder?

There are different ways to make a turbo louder. It can be done by making changes under the hood or on the exhaust system. This tuning will make the car louder, and it will boost performance. Also, it will allow the turbo to breathe easier.

Upgrading the Exhaust System

One of the best ways to improve the sound of a turbo is by upgrading the exhaust system. With this, you get not only the sound but also the performance. Installing a muffler is not legal in some states, so check the regulations before installation.

The improved exhaust system will allow air to flow easier. You can make different improvements and use aftermarket parts.

  • L5P turbo exhaust. Not only does it look and sound great, but it also reduces the EGT temperatures by 200 degrees.
  • Cat-back exhaust. This is a modification of the exhaust pipe. When installed, it improves the sound and airflow. This system runs from the top of the exhaust system to the catalytic converter. It connects the muffler with the catalytic converter and to the exhaust tip.
  • Installing a downpipe. A downpipe releases back pressure increasing horsepower and torque, and it sounds much better. It also reduces the stress on the turbo, prolonging its work life. It doesn’t affect the emissions.

Installing a Cold Air Intake

Installing a cold air intake is one of the most favorite upgrades to the engine. A new air intake will make the turbo sound louder, and it will also add some power to it. After you install the new intake, you will hear the sound of air flowing into the intake. This will make your car sound more aggressive, for sure.

Another great feature of the cold air intake is that it will lower the stress on the turbo. With all that extra air, the engine can breathe better. Installing an intake doesn’t require any work around the exhaust system. All the work is focused under the hood. When you replace the intake, you will also get a new air filter and intake tube that allows better airflow.

The prices for cold air intakes go from $100 to over $500. If you want some serious upgrades in sound and performance, you need at least $300. Then you can invest in a proven cold air intake from a respected manufacturer. When choosing, try to find an intake with factory holes so you don’t need to drill or cut when installing. 

Check Out Introducing the L5P Stealth 67G2 Turbo:

YouTube video

Adding a Blow-Off Valve

The blow-off valve will not only increase turbo noise, but it will release stress from it. With it, it is easy to release compressed air into the atmosphere. When there is no compressed air, the pressure on the turbo is released. 

Another great feature of the blow-off valve is that the switching gears are much smoother. Also, the turbo will work better when there are rapid changes in RPM. 

When it comes to sound, with this valve, the engine will have that blow-off sound that everybody loves. This feature is also adapted for use on all Duramax vehicles. Installation and cost can go from $100 to over $200, depending on the quality of the valve.

Upgrading the Intercooler

Intercooler is one of the best upgrades because it has different functions. Engines have a problem with head gaskets because of the high temperatures. An intercooler will lower that temperature, it will add horsepower and torque and can improve the overall sound.

Hot intake air goes through the intake system and the turbo, and there comes an intercooler to cool it. That cooled air goes to the combustion chamber and that way the engine doesn’t lose power because of hot air.

Key Takeaway: The only way that the intercooler will improve the sound of the turbo is when it is combined with a cold air intake.

Replacing the Stock Turbo

The most common reason to replace the stock turbo is to gain more power and torque. Depending on the turbo, the sound can also improve. It will not make the car sound louder, but healthier and better. Replacing the turbo is expensive and can go anywhere between $400 and $3000.

Check Out Loud and Proud: How To Make Your L5P Turbo Even Louder?:

YouTube video

FAQs

What are Cars Turbo Sounds?

It can sound like a whistle or whining. It is a high-pitched sound when the turbocharger kicks in higher RPM. 

Why Do Turbos Whistle?

It is the sound of a compressor inside the turbo that is speeding up. This process is also called spooling up.

How to Make L5P Louder Without Deleting?

There are two ways to make an L5P louder without deleting:

– Installing a cold-air intake
– Upgrading a factory exhaust system.

What is the Best L5P Delete Kit?

There are several very good delete kits, and we will mention some of them:
– HP Tuners L5P
Duramax Tuner L5P SOTF

Final Considerations

Choosing the best way to make an L5P turbo louder can contain several tuning methods. Using a cold air intake showed great results when combined with a new intercooler. This method doesn’t involve any work around the exhaust system. 

You can also work on the exhaust allowing more air to exit faster. Combining a muffler and a downpipe will improve the sound and power of the car. All these products can cost a lot of money, so check everything before you start modding. Finding aftermarket components is always a great option.

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Matt's life has been driven by his great love for cars, from the revving sounds of his childhood to the digital tracks of Gran Turismo. He is a big fan of cars and loves to learn about their inner workings and share his knowledge with other car fans. Even though he doesn't have ASE certifications, he works on cars all the time, so he's always up to date on the latest innovations and trends. Matt doesn't just want to write; he also wants to connect with other people who love cars as much as he does.