Introduction: The AWE Touring Edition Turbo-Back Exhaust – A Performance Upgrade Worth Understanding

The AWE Touring Edition Turbo-Back Exhaust is a sought-after aftermarket system that transforms both the sound and performance of many popular turbocharged vehicles. Engineered for a refined yet sporty exhaust note, the Touring Edition sits between the more aggressive Track Edition and the factory system. However, like any precision modification, achieving the best results requires proper installation, maintenance, and occasional troubleshooting. This guide examines the most frequent challenges owners encounter with the AWE Touring Edition Turbo-Back Exhaust and provides detailed, actionable solutions to keep your setup running perfectly.

Common Issue #1: Exhaust Leaks

Exhaust leaks are among the most reported problems with any turbo-back system, and the AWE Touring Edition is no exception. Even a small leak can rob your engine of power, alter the carefully tuned sound, and allow unmetered air to disrupt the air-fuel mixture.

Symptoms of Exhaust Leaks

  • A hissing or ticking sound that gets louder as RPMs rise.
  • Reduced turbo spool response or a feeling of lost power.
  • Exhaust fumes entering the cabin (leak upstream of cabin seals).
  • Black soot deposits around pipe joints or flanges.

Common Leak Points

  1. Downpipe-to-turbo connection: This high-temp joint often sees leaks if the bolts were not torqued to specification or if the gasket has been crushed unevenly.
  2. Mid-pipe slip joints or band clamps: AWE uses V-band and slip-fit connections; if clamps are overtightened or undertightened, gaps can form.
  3. Axle-back section: Where the muffler assembly meets the rear pipe – a loose clamp or misalignment here can create a persistent leak.

How to Diagnose and Fix Exhaust Leaks

Begin by allowing the vehicle to cool completely. Start the engine and have a helper lightly cover the tailpipe to create backpressure while you listen for hissing sounds along the exhaust path. Alternatively, use a smoke machine or a shop vacuum in reverse mode at the tailpipe to pressurize the system. Once you’ve located the leak:

  • Check all bolts and V-band clamps for proper torque. The AWE Touring Edition uses high-quality hardware; refer to the installation guide for exact specifications (typically 35-45 ft-lbs for flange bolts).
  • Inspect the sealing surfaces. If a gasket is damaged, replace it with an OEM-quality or graphite-impregnated gasket designed for turbo exhaust systems.
  • For slip-fit joints, apply a thin layer of high-temperature anti-seize or a specialized exhaust sealant (like Permatex Ultra Copper) and tighten the clamp evenly. Do not overtighten, as this can distort the pipe.
  • If the leak is at the turbo-to-downpipe flange, ensure the studs are clean and the nuts are torqued in a crisscross pattern to prevent warping.

Common Issue #2: Excessive Interior Drone and Noise

The AWE Touring Edition is designed to be the refined option, but some owners report intrusive drone during highway cruising or an exhaust note that is louder than expected. While sound preference is subjective, excessive drone can be a sign of a setup that is not properly optimized.

Why Drone Occurs

Exhaust drone typically happens at a specific RPM range where the natural frequency of the exhaust system coincides with the vehicle’s resonant frequency. The Touring Edition’s Helmholtz resonator and sound-deadening construction are meant to cancel drone, but factors like engine load, transmission type, and even rear cargo area insulation can influence the result.

Symptoms of Excessive Noise

  • Annoying boom or resonance between 1,800–2,500 RPM on the highway.
  • Audible vibrations from rear panels or the trunk area.
  • Overall volume that feels uncomfortably loud for daily driving.

Solutions to Reduce Drone and Volume

  1. Check exhaust hangers and mounts: A misaligned or worn hanger can transmit vibration directly into the chassis. Replace any degraded rubber isolators and ensure the system sits centrally with at least 1 inch of clearance from the heat shield and underbody.
  2. Inspect the resonator: The Touring Edition uses a single muffler and a resonator. Verify that the resonator is not damaged internally. If drone persists, some owners add a secondary resonator or a small Vibrant bottle resonator to the mid-pipe. This will slightly increase backpressure but can tame drone without drastically killing sound.
  3. Consider sound deadening in the cabin: Add mass-loaded vinyl or butyl-based damping mats in the spare tire well and under the rear seat. This is an effective last-resort measure for reducing drone without altering the exhaust itself.
  4. Professional tuning: In some vehicles, a custom ECU tune can adjust the idle and cruise fuel maps to shift the exhaust’s resonant point. Consult a reputable tuner familiar with your car’s platform.

Common Issue #3: Fitment and Clearance Problems

Even though the AWE Touring Edition is engineered for a direct bolt-on fit, variations in chassis tolerance, aftermarket downpipes, and subframe differences can cause misalignment. Poor fitment leads to rattling against the underbody, excessive heat transfer, and even damage to the exhaust or driveline components.

Symptoms of Fitment Issues

  • Clanking or tapping sounds when going over bumps or turning.
  • Visible contact between the exhaust pipe and crossmember, driveshaft, or sway bar.
  • Uneven gap between the tailpipe and rear bumper cutout.
  • Vibrations through the floorboard that change with throttle position.

How to Achieve Proper Fitment

Start from the front: Always tighten the downpipe-to-turbo connection first, then work backward. This ensures the system is aligned with the engine’s exhaust flange. Here are steps to correct common fitment problems:

  • Loosen all clamps and hangers: With the system loosely assembled, adjust each section to center the pipe in the tunnel. Use a pry bar or rubber mallet to nudge portions that rub against the floor pan or heat shields.
  • Check the hanger orientation: AWE supplies specific hanger brackets for a reason. Ensure that the hooks on the exhaust mate correctly with the factory hanger isolators. If a hanger is bent, replace it.
  • Address driveshaft clearance: On some models (like the VW/Audi MQB platform), the mid-pipe can sit too close to the driveshaft. Adding a spacer between the hanger and the chassis can pull the pipe away. Do not use homemade spacers – purchase a kit from AWE or a reputable aftermarket supplier.
  • Tailpipe centering: Loosen the axle-back clamp and rotate the muffler assembly until the tips are perfectly centered in the bumper cutouts. Tighten the clamp while maintaining pressure.
  • If all else fails, contact AWE’s customer support: They can provide specific guidance or replacement parts for misaligned components. Their technical team is known for resolving unique fitment situations.

Common Issue #4: Performance Loss or Check Engine Light

After installing a turbo-back exhaust, some owners experience a loss of low-end torque, a check engine light (CEL), or irregular boost response. This is often not a problem with the exhaust itself but rather the result of an altered exhaust flow that the engine’s ECU cannot compensate for without a tune.

Root Causes of Performance Problems

  1. Increased exhaust flow causes overboost: Modern turbo engines rely on the exhaust backpressure to regulate boost via the wastegate. With reduced restriction, boost can spike, triggering the ECU to cut timing or fuel.
  2. Oxygen sensor readings skewed: The downstream (post-cat) O2 sensor sees a leaner exhaust stream and may trigger a P0420 catalyst efficiency code, especially if the vehicle still uses a catalytic converter.
  3. Improper installation of sensor bungs: The AWE downpipe includes bungs for the oxygen sensors. If the sensor is not fully seated or the bung is angled incorrectly, it can cause false readings.

How to Restore and Optimize Performance

  • Verify all sensor connections: Ensure the O2 sensors are threaded in straight and tight. Use anti-seize sparingly on the threads. Check that the extension harnesses (if used) are connected securely and free of damage.
  • Check for boost leaks up to the turbo: A large exhaust leak upstream of the oxygen sensor can cause the ECU to add fuel, resulting in a rich condition that feels sluggish. Fix any leaks first (see Issue #1).
  • Install a high-flow catalytic converter or test pipe: The Touring Edition is available with a high-flow cat or a catless downpipe. If you chose a high-flow cat, ensure it is positioned properly and not restricting flow. Some owners find that the catalyst is too small for high-horsepower builds; switching to a catless or larger high-flow converter can recover lost power.
  • Get a professional ECU tune: This is the most effective solution. A tune recalibrates the boost maps, fuel trims, and O2 sensor thresholds to work with the free-flowing exhaust. Platforms like APR, Unitronic, or Cobb offer off-the-shelf tunes for many vehicles, and a custom dyno tune is ideal for maximum performance.
  • Use a defouler or O2 spacer: If you are not ready to tune and have a persistent CEL, a mini-cat or 90° O2 spacer can delay the sensor response enough to clear the code. This is a band-aid, not a permanent fix.

A turbo-back exhaust carries significant heat, especially near the downpipe. If the system is too close to wiring, plastic undertrays, or rubber components, it can melt or degrade them over time. The AWE Touring Edition is engineered with thermal management in mind, but installation mistakes or vehicle-specific quirks can create hot spots.

Signs of Heat Damage

  • Burned or melted plastic near the downpipe or mid-pipe.
  • Discoloration of nearby hoses or wires (brittle, cracked rubber).
  • A burning smell after a hard drive.
  • Excessive cabin heat on the driver’s side floor.

Preventive Measures and Fixes

  • Re-route wiring and hoses: During installation, move any wires, vacuum lines, or coolant hoses at least 1–2 inches away from the downpipe. Use zip ties or heat-resistant sleeve (e.g., DEI Titanium wrap) to protect vulnerable sections.
  • Add a heat shield: AWE provides a heat shield for the downpipe that bolts to the turbo housing. If it is missing or damaged, replace it. For extra protection, you can install an aftermarket turbo blanket and wrap the downpipe with DEI exhaust wrap (keep the wrap dry to avoid trapping moisture).
  • Check the transmission cooler lines: On some vehicles, the automatic transmission cooler lines run very close to the downpipe. If you have clearance concerns, consider relocating the lines or adding a heat block plate.
  • Monitor for clearance after heat cycling: After a few thermal cycles, metal expands and parts may shift. Inspect the system after 100 miles and again after 500 miles to ensure nothing has moved closer to a heat-sensitive component.

General Maintenance and Long-Term Care

To keep your AWE Touring Edition Turbo-Back Exhaust performing and sounding its best for years, adopt a routine:

  • Clean the tips regularly: Carbon buildup is normal. Use a dedicated metal polish and a non-abrasive pad to keep the tips bright.
  • Re-torque clamps and bolts after the first heat cycle: Metal expands and contracts; a small re-torque at 100 miles prevents leaks.
  • Inspect hangers annually: Rubber isolators degrade with time and exhaust heat. Replace them if they become spongy or cracked.
  • Watch for corrosion: If you live in an area with road salt, consider applying a protective coating (like ACF-50) on the unpainted surfaces, or frequently wash the undercarriage.
  • Keep a log of any changes: Record when you installed, when you tightened, and any modifications. This helps with warranty claims or future troubleshooting.

When to Seek Professional Help

While many issues can be resolved at home, some situations call for a trained mechanic or exhaust specialist:

  • Persistent leaks that do not respond to gasket replacement.
  • Complex fitment requiring subframe adjustments or custom fabrication.
  • Electronic issues (fault codes that return after tune and hardware checks).
  • Any signs of fatigue cracks in the exhaust welds or brackets.

Final Thoughts: Getting the Most from Your AWE Touring Edition

The AWE Touring Edition Turbo-Back Exhaust is a high-quality system that can transform your driving experience. By understanding the common issues – leaks, drone, fitment, performance losses, and heat concerns – you can address them proactively and enjoy the full benefits of a well-tuned exhaust. Remember that minor adjustments and patience during installation pay off in long-term satisfaction. And when in doubt, AWE’s customer support and the enthusiast forums for your specific vehicle are excellent resources for platform-specific advice. With proper care, this exhaust will deliver years of balanced performance and the unmistakable sound that only a Touring Edition can provide.