GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Exhaust Leakage - Not OBD II And/Or Noise

Step

Action

Value(s)

Yes

No

1

Inspect the exhaust component pipes and the couplings for leaks.

Are there leaks at the exhaust component pipes and the couplings?

--

Go to Step 2

Go to Step 3

2

Tighten the clamps or tighteners to the specified torque. Refer to Fastener Tightening Specifications .

Is the exhaust system leaking or making noise?

--

Go to Step 3

System OK

3

Inspect the components for misalignment or incorrect installation.

Are the components misaligned or improperly installed?

--

Go to Step 4

Go to Step 5

4

Align the components and tighten the connections.

Is the exhaust system leaking or making noise?

--

Go to Step 5

System OK

5

Inspect the exhaust manifold for cracks or damage.

Is the exhaust manifold cracked or broken?

--

Go to Step 6

Go to Step 7

6

Replace the exhaust manifold.

Is the exhaust system leaking or making noise?

--

Go to Step 7

System OK

7

Inspect the system for a leak between the exhaust manifold and the cylinder head.

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

--

Go to Step 8

Go to Step 9

8

Tighten the manifold to cylinder head nuts and bolts to specifications.

Refer to Fastener Tightening Specifications .

Is the exhaust system leaking or making noise?

--

Go to Step 9

System OK

9

Inspect the seal for damage or excessive wear.

Are the seals damaged or worn?

--

Go to Step 10

Go to Step 11

10

Replace the seals or gaskets, as necessary.

Is the exhaust system leaking or making noise?

--

Go to Step 11

System OK

11

Inspect the exhaust pipe for burns or rust.

Is the exhaust pipe burned or rusted out?

--

Go to Step 12

Go to Step 13

12

Replace the exhaust pipe.

Is the exhaust system leaking or making noise?

--

Go to Step 13

System OK

13

Inspect the muffler for damage.

Is the muffler burned or blown out?

--

Go to Step 14

Go to Step 15

14

Replace the muffler assembly.

Is the exhaust system leaking or making noise?

--

Go to Step 15

System OK

15

Inspect the condition of the clamps and/or brackets.

Are the clamps and/or brackets broken or loose?

--

Go to Step 16

--

16

Repair or replace the damaged clamps and/or brackets, as necessary.

Is the exhaust system leaking or making noise?

--

--

System OK