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:
- Flange bolts or flange nuts
- Heat shields
- Brackets
- Pipes
^ If any of these conditions exist, inspect the tailpipe alignment. Align and replace any components necessary, including new manifold seals, nuts, and gaskets.