GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Restricted Exhaust Gasoline Engine

Step

Action

Value(s)

Yes

No

1

Inspect the exhaust tubing.

Is the exhaust tubing "kinked?"

--

Go to Step 2

Go To Step 3

2

If possible, repair the damaged exhaust tubing. Otherwise, replace the exhaust tubing.

Is the exhaust system restricted?

--

Go to Step 3

System OK

3

Inspect the muffler.

Is the muffler restricted?

--

Go to Step 4

Go to Step 5

4

  1. If a restriction is likely, remove the muffler and visually inspect it.
  2. If the damage to the muffler is not repairable, replace the muffler.
  3. Correct the engine malfunction. Refer to Engine Controls.

Is the exhaust system restricted?

--

Go to Step 5

System OK

5

Inspect the end of the tailpipe.

Is the end of the tailpipe obstructed?

--

Go to Step 6

Go to Step 7

6

Remove the obstruction, or if the end of the tailpipe is crimped, straighten the outlet.

Is the exhaust system restricted?

--

Go to Step 7

System OK

7

Inspect the catalytic converter for obstructions, which may have occured as a result of a serious engine manlfunction.

Is the catalytic converter obstructed?

--

Go to Step 8

--

8

  1. Replace the catalytic converter.
  2. Correct the engine malfunction. Refer to Engine Controls.

Is the exhaust system restricted?

--

--

System OK

Restricted Exhaust Diesel Engine

Step

Action

Value(s)

Yes

No

1

Inspect the exhaust tubing.

Is the exhaust tubing "kinked?"

--

Go to Step 2

Go to Step 3

2

If possible, repair the damaged exhaust tubing. Otherwise, replace the exhaust tubing.

Is the exhaust system restricted?

--

Go to Step 3

System OK

3

Inspect the muffler.

Is the muffler restricted?

--

Go to Step 4

Go to Step 5

4

  1. If a restriction is likely, remove the muffler and visually check it.
  2. If the muffler is beyond repair, replace the muffler.
  3. Correct the engine malfunction. Refer to Engine Controls.

Is the exhaust system restricted?

--

Go to Step 5

System OK

5

Inspect the end of the tailpipe.

Is the end of the tailpipe obstructed?

--

Go to Step 6

--

6

Remove the obstruction in the tailpipe, or if the end of the tailpipe is crimped, straighten the outlet.

Is the exhaust system restricted?

--

--

System OK