GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Inspect the exhaust pipes, the catalytic converter(s), the muffler, and the tailpipe for the following conditions:

    â€¢ Cracked joints
    â€¢ Broken welds
    â€¢ Corrosion damage (Corrosion damage could cause leaks in the exhaust system.)

Inspect the clamps, the brackets, and the insulators for the following conditions:

    â€¢ Broken bolts
    â€¢ Stripped bolt threads
    â€¢ Corroded bolts

The exhaust system (including the heat shield) must be free of the following conditions:

    â€¢ Leaks
    â€¢ Binding
    â€¢ Grounding
    â€¢ Excessive vibration

These conditions may occur if any of the following components are loose or damaged:

    â€¢ Flange bolts or flange nuts
    â€¢ Heat shields
    â€¢ Brackets
    â€¢ Pipes

If any of these conditions exist, inspect the exhaust system alignment. Align and replace any components necessary, including new manifold seals, nuts, and gaskets.