Exhaust System Noise/Leak or Pinging Type Noise While Vehicle Cools Down (Replace Exhaust Resonator Assembly)

Some customers may comment on a loud exhaust noise or a pinging type noise that can be heard after the vehicle is shut off and cooling down.

This condition may be caused by premature failure of the resonator due to thermal cycling. The resonator end caps may split open. The internal resonator design has a solid pipe through it that would expand quicker than the external shell and eventually crack out the ends.

Replace only the resonator assembly following the procedure listed below. DO NOT replace the complete exhaust system for this condition . This new resonator has incorporated a slip joint internal pipe design to reduce thermal stresses.

1. Raise and suitably support the vehicle.
2. Cut the resonator outlet pipe as close to the weld as possible. The best way to do this is with a hacksaw.
3. Remove the catalytic converter down pipe to the resonator nuts.
4. Remove the resonator from the hanger.
5. Remove the exhaust flange gasket.
6. File down the cut exhaust pipe to remove any burrs.
7. Install the new exhaust flange gasket.
8. Install the new resonator assembly to the hanger.
9. Connect the resonator outlet pipe and install the clamp.
10. Install the catalytic converter down pipe to the resonator nuts.

Tighten
Tighten the nuts to 30N·m (22 lb ft).

11. Lower the vehicle.

For vehicles repaired under warranty, use: