GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Exhaust System Description Gas Engines

Caution: Engine exhaust contains Carbon Monoxide (CO) which cannot be seen or smelled. Exposure to CO can cause unconsciousness and even death.

Exhaust may enter the vehicle if:

   • The vehicle idles in areas with poor ventilation (parking garages, tunnels, deep snow that may block underbody airflow or tail pipes).
   • The exhaust smells or sounds strange or different.
   • The exhaust system leaks due to corrosion or damage.
   • The vehicle’s exhaust system has been modified, damaged or improperly repaired.
   • There are holes or openings in the vehicle body from damage or after-market modifications that are not completely sealed.
If unusual fumes are detected or if it is suspected that exhaust is coming into the vehicle:
   • Drive it only with the windows completely down.
   • Have the vehicle repaired immediately.
Never park the vehicle with the engine running in an enclosed area such as a garage or a building that has no fresh air ventilation.

Notice: When inspecting or replacing exhaust system components, make sure there is adequate clearance from all points on the underbody to prevent overheating of the floor pan and possible damage to the passenger compartment insulation and trim materials.

Muffler

If holes, open seams or any deterioration is discovered upon inspection of the front muffler and pipe assembly, the complete assembly should be replaced. The same procedure is applicable to the rear muffler assembly.

Heat shields in the front and the rear muffler assembly positions, as well as for the catalytic converter and the connecting pipe, protect the vehicle and the environment from high temperatures the exhaust system develops.

Catalytic Converters

Notice: In order to avoid damage to the catalyst, use unleaded fuel only.

The catalytic converters are emission control devices added to the exhaust system to reduce pollutants from the exhaust pipes.

The 3-way catalyst has coatings which contain palladium, platinum and rhodium, which simultaneously lower the levels of HC, CO and NOx.