General Description
Notice: In order to prevent overheating of the floor panel or damage to the passenger compartment, insulation, and trim materials, check the underbody for adequate clearance when inspecting or replacing the exhaust system components.
Check the complete exhaust system, nearby body areas, and the rear compartment lid for the following conditions:
| • | Broken or damaged parts |
| • | Mispositioned or missing parts |
| • | Open seams |
| • | Holes |
| • | Loose connections |
| • | Other deterioration which could permit exhaust fumes to seep into the rear compartment or the passenger compartment. |
| (Dust or water in the rear compartment may indicate a problem in one of these areas.) |
Correct any faulty areas immediately.
The exhaust system pipe to the rear of the muffler must be replaced when a new muffler is installed. The replacement of the rearward exhaust system pipe helps ensure continued integrity.
Periodic maintenance of the exhaust system is not required. If the vehicle is raised for other service, check the condition of the complete exhaust system.
Muffler
The resonator and the intermediate pipe are serviced as one assembly.
The muffler and the tailpipe are also serviced as an assembly.
Hangers
Various types of hangers are used to support the exhaust system(s):
| • | Conventional rubber straps |
| • | Rubber rings |
| • | Rubber blocks |
Improperly installed exhaust system components can cause annoying vibrations which are difficult to diagnose.
Clamps
Two types of clamps are used for connecting exhaust system slip joints:
| • | Saddle/U-bolt |
| • | Single nut compression |
Coat the slip joint with exhaust system sealer before assembly.
Welded Connections
Cut a welded section when servicing it.
When installing replacement parts, clamp the new connection.
Coat the slip joints with exhaust system sealer before assembly.
Three Way Catalytic Converter
Important: The three way catalytic converter requires the use of unleaded fuel only.
The three way catalytic converter is an emission control device added to the exhaust system in order to reduce pollutants from the exhaust gas stream.
Diagnosis
Noise
Rattles and noise vibrations in the exhaust system may be caused by misalignment of parts. Follow this procedure when aligning the system:
- Leave all of the bolts or nuts loose.
- Properly align the parts.
- Tighten all of the bolts or nuts, working from front to rear.
Performance
Complaints in engine performance may indicate exhaust system performance complaints (such as excessive back pressure). However, other faulty vehicle components (such as emission control devices) have similar effects on engine performance and may be characterized by the same symptoms or complaints. Refer to Engine Controls for further information.
On-Vehicle Service
Three individual components of the single exhaust system can be serviced:
| • | The three way catalytic converter |
| • | The intermediate pipe and resonator |
| • | The muffler and tailpipe assembly |
