GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Step

Action

Value(s)

Yes

No

1

  1. Check to see if the exhaust pipes are contacting the heat shields.
  2. Check if the heat shields are loose.
  3. Inspect the system when cold and after warmup.

Are the exhaust pipes contacting the heat shields, or are the heat shields loose?

--

Go to Step 2

Go to Step 3

2

  1. Tighten the heat shield bolts.
  2. Align the exhaust system, if necessary.

Is the exhaust system making noise?

1.9 N·m (17 lb in)

Go to Step 3

System OK

3

Check the manifold or pipe connections for leaks.

Are there leaks at the pipe connections or manifold?

--

Go to Step 4

Go to Step 5

4

Tighten the clamps at the leaking connections.

Is the exhaust system making noise?

35 N·m (26 lb ft)

Go to Step 5

System OK

5

Check the muffler to see if it has been burned or blown out.

Is the muffler burned or blown out?

--

Go to Step 6

Go to Step 7

6

Replace the exhaust muffler.

Is the exhaust system making noise?

--

Go to Step 7

System OK

7

Check the exhaust pipe to see if it has been burned or has rusted out.

Is the exhaust pipe burned or rusted out?

--

Go to Step 8

Go to Step 9

8

Replace the exhaust pipe.

Is the exhaust system making noise?

--

Go to Step 9

System OK

9

Check the exhaust pipe for leaks at the manifold flange.

Is the exhaust pipe leaking at the manifold flange?

--

Go to Step 10

Go to Step 11

10

Replace the gasket.

Is the exhaust system making noise?

--

Go to Step 11

System OK

11

Check to see if the exhaust manifold is cracked or broken.

Is the exhaust manifold cracked or broken?

--

Go to Step 12

Go to Step 13

12

Replace the manifold.

Is the exhaust system making noise?

--

Go to Step 13

System OK

13

Check to see if there is a leak between the manifold and the cylinder head.

Is there a leak between the manifold and the cylinder head?

--

Go to Step 14

--

14

Tighten the manifold-to-cylinder head stud nuts or bolts to specifications.

Is the exhaust system making noise?

--

--

System OK