Do I need to remove anything before installation?

You'll disconnect the factory exhaust from the catalytic converter back and remove the old system. The catback bolts directly to factory mounting points — no modifications needed.

Will this affect my emissions or cause a check engine light?

This is a catback system, meaning it starts after the catalytic converter. Your emissions components stay intact, so no CEL risk from the exhaust swap itself.

What do I need to do to the stainless tips before installation?

The tips come ready to install. If you want to polish them further down the road, standard metal polish works fine — but they're already finished from the factory.