Initial Inspection and Diagnostic Overview

Inspect the exhaust pipes, the catalytic converter(s), the muffler, and the tailpipe for the following conditions:
^ Cracked joints
^ Broken welds
^ Corrosion damage (Corrosion damage could cause leaks in the exhaust system.)

Inspect the clamps, the brackets, and the insulators for the following conditions:
^ Broken bolts
^ Stripped bolt threads
^ Corroded bolts

The exhaust system (including the heat shield) must be free of the following conditions:
^ Leaks
^ Binding
^ Grounding
^ Excessive vibration

These conditions may occur if any of the following components are loose or damaged:
^ The flange bolts
^ The flange nuts
^ The heat shields
^ The brackets
^ The 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.