GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Step

Action

Value(s)

Yes

No

Misalignment of exhaust system parts may cause rattle and noise vibration in the exhaust system. Leave all of the nuts and bolts loose, until all parts are properly aligned. After proper alignment, tighten the nuts and bolts, working from the front to the rear of the vehicle.

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 in Engine Exhaust.

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.

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