Headers - Toyota Manifold - or Aftermarket Manifold

Need some help and thought this would be the right place to ask.

I have a 2011 Tacoma, V6-4.0l with 315k miles on it. I keep the truck updated and current with new parts, etc. In other word, I try to keep my truck in great condition.

I just learned that my exhaust leak is unfortunately not a seal needing to be fixed, but both manifolds along with the upper cats are shot.

Question is: The Toyota OEM manifolds with cat are expensive. Has anyone used an aftermarket manifold that has worked well and they like? Exhaust shop said that sometimes a non OEM manifold can cause the check engine light to come on because of o2 sensor. I can live with a check engine light if need be.

Or... should I consider headers? Always have wanted a vehicle with "headers" but I have no idea if that is a good idea or a bad idea (pros and cons of a header)? Any insight or recommendations would be really appreciated.

 

Good luck finding aftermarket manifolds that won't leak.
Leaks before A/F sensor will cause a lean code....

Too bad no one can makes quality aftermarket parts. Your choices are, Expensive OEM or Garbage......

With 315K on the engine.......
It's a tough decision. You might make it to 450k.

 

Used oem may be the answer.

 

Yea for this truck I think I’d personally stick with OEM manifolds.

 

I put on magnaflow direct fit manifolds. They seem good quality have had them on for about 12000 miles no issues. Oem gaskets didn't work, I used remflex gaskets sealed them nice.

 

Just had both manifolds replaced on my 2011 at 105k miles on it. It had been noisy for a while (ticking). Nice and quiet now.
Toyota oem replacements were outrageous as expected... So I used Walker replacements part# 16390 and 16391. Aftermarket pipe gaskets, toyota manifold gaskets, toyota studs & nuts. So far, no check engine light.