Exhaust System Repair Cost Guide
Labor rates based on $125/hour. Parts costs may vary based on vehicle make and model.
Exhaust Manifold
Typical Cost Range:$375 - $750
Labor Time:2-4 hours
Includes removal of old manifold, gasket replacement, and installation of new manifold. Higher costs may apply for luxury vehicles or difficult-to-access manifolds.
Catalytic Converter
Typical Cost Range:$500 - $1,250
Labor Time:1-2 hours
Includes removal and replacement of converter. Most of the cost is in the part itself, as catalytic converters contain precious metals.
Muffler Replacement
Typical Cost Range:$250 - $500
Labor Time:1-2 hours
Includes removal of old muffler and installation of new unit. Additional costs may apply if hangers or connecting pipes need replacement.
Resonator Replacement
Typical Cost Range:$250 - $375
Labor Time:1-1.5 hours
Includes removal and replacement of resonator. Cost may increase if surrounding pipes need repair.
Complete Exhaust System
Typical Cost Range:$1,000 - $2,500
Labor Time:4-8 hours
Includes replacement of entire exhaust system from manifold to tail pipe. Cost varies significantly based on vehicle type and system complexity.
Exhaust Pipe Section Replacement
Typical Cost Range:$200 - $375
Labor Time:1-2 hours
Includes cutting out damaged section and welding in new pipe. Price may vary based on pipe location and length needed.
Note: These are estimated costs. Actual prices may vary based on vehicle make/model, parts availability, and extent of damage. Additional repairs may be necessary depending on system inspection.
Common Exhaust Pipe/Tube Repair Procedures
Exhaust Manifold Pipe
Repair Steps:
- Allow engine to cool completely
- Raise vehicle on lift or secure with jack stands
- Inspect manifold for cracks or damage
- Remove oxygen sensors if present
- Loosen and remove manifold bolts
- Remove old gasket and clean mating surfaces
- Install new gasket
- Install new or repaired manifold
- Torque bolts to manufacturer specifications
- Reinstall oxygen sensors
Catalytic Converter Pipe
Repair Steps:
- Allow system to cool completely
- Raise vehicle and secure properly
- Locate catalytic converter
- Remove oxygen sensors
- Cut or unbolt converter from exhaust system
- Remove old gaskets and clean mounting surfaces
- Install new catalytic converter
- Install new gaskets
- Weld or bolt new converter in place
- Reinstall oxygen sensors
- Check for leaks
Intermediate Pipe
Repair Steps:
- Cool system completely
- Raise and secure vehicle
- Spray penetrating oil on rusted bolts
- Remove clamps or bolts at both ends
- Remove old pipe
- Clean mounting surfaces
- Install new intermediate pipe
- Install new gaskets and hardware
- Align pipe properly
- Tighten all connections
Muffler Pipe
Repair Steps:
- Allow system to cool
- Raise vehicle on lift
- Inspect hangers and brackets
- Remove old clamps or cut pipe if necessary
- Remove old muffler
- Clean pipe ends
- Install new muffler
- Install new clamps
- Align muffler properly
- Secure all hangers
- Check for leaks
Tailpipe
Repair Steps:
- Cool system completely
- Raise vehicle
- Remove old hangers
- Remove clamps or cut old tailpipe
- Remove old pipe
- Clean connecting surfaces
- Install new tailpipe
- Attach new hangers
- Install new clamps
- Align pipe properly
- Check clearance with vehicle body
Important Notes:
- Always wear appropriate safety gear including gloves and eye protection
- Ensure proper ventilation when working on exhaust systems
- Replace all gaskets and hardware with new parts
- Check for proper clearance from heat-sensitive components
- Test for leaks after completion
Note: These are general repair procedures. Specific steps may vary depending on vehicle make, model, and year. Always consult your vehicle's service manual for exact specifications.
Understanding Different Types of Exhaust Pipes and Tubes
Header Pipes
Header pipes are the first components of the exhaust system that connect directly to the engine's exhaust ports. They collect exhaust gases from individual cylinders and merge them into a larger pipe. Header pipes are designed to improve exhaust flow and enhance engine performance by reducing back pressure and optimizing scavenging effects.
Downpipes
The downpipe connects the exhaust manifold or header to the catalytic converter. In turbocharged vehicles, it connects the turbocharger to the rest of the exhaust system. Downpipes are crucial for maintaining proper exhaust flow and can significantly impact turbocharger performance and throttle response when upgraded.
Catalytic Converter Pipes
These pipes connect to and from the catalytic converter, ensuring proper flow through this essential emissions control device. They're designed to withstand high temperatures and maintain structural integrity while directing exhaust gases through the catalyst material.
Mid Pipes
Mid pipes connect the catalytic converter to the muffler section. They often include resonators to help tune exhaust sound and can be designed with various bends and diameters to optimize flow characteristics and ground clearance.
Tailpipes
The tailpipe is the final visible section of the exhaust system where gases exit the vehicle. They can be designed in various styles and sizes for both aesthetic and performance purposes. Tailpipes often feature specific tips or finishers that enhance the vehicle's appearance while maintaining proper exhaust flow.
X-Pipes
X-pipes are crossover tubes that connect dual exhaust pipes in an "X" configuration. They help balance exhaust pressure between both sides of a dual exhaust system, improving flow characteristics and creating a smoother, more refined exhaust note.
H-Pipes
Similar to X-pipes, H-pipes connect dual exhaust pipes in an "H" configuration. They balance exhaust pulses between both sides of the system but typically produce a deeper, more traditional muscle car sound compared to X-pipes.
Y-Pipes
Y-pipes either split a single exhaust pipe into two (for dual exhaust systems) or merge two pipes into one. They're commonly used in both factory and aftermarket exhaust systems to transition between single and dual exhaust configurations.
Resonator Tubes
Resonator tubes are designed to fine-tune exhaust sound by canceling out specific frequencies. They help reduce drone and unwanted harmonics while maintaining proper exhaust flow characteristics.
Muffler Pipes
These pipes connect to and from the muffler, ensuring proper flow through the sound-dampening device. They're designed to accommodate the muffler's size and position while maintaining optimal ground clearance and flow characteristics.
Common Failure Symptoms of Exhaust Pipes and Tubes
Common Exhaust System Components and Their Signs of Failure
Exhaust Manifold
Signs of Failure:
- Loud ticking noise, especially when cold
- Exhaust leaks near engine (hissing sound)
- Visible cracks or warping
- Decreased engine performance
Service Schedule: Typically lasts 8-10 years under normal conditions. No regular maintenance required, but inspection recommended during routine service.
Catalytic Converter
Signs of Failure:
- Check Engine Light illumination
- Reduced engine performance
- Rattling noise from under vehicle
- Sulfur or rotten egg smell
- Failed emissions test
Service Schedule: Should last 10+ years or 100,000+ miles under normal conditions. No regular maintenance required beyond periodic inspection.
Muffler
Signs of Failure:
- Louder than normal exhaust noise
- Visible rust or holes
- Dragging on the ground
- Condensation dripping from holes
Service Schedule: Typically lasts 5-7 years. Inspect annually for rust and damage.
Exhaust Pipes
Signs of Failure:
- Visible rust spots or holes
- Exhaust leaks (hissing sound)
- Loose connections
- Excessive vibration
Service Schedule: Should last 8-10 years depending on climate and driving conditions. Annual inspection recommended.
Resonator
Signs of Failure:
- Increased exhaust noise
- Drone or buzzing sound while driving
- Visible damage or rust
Service Schedule: Should last 7-10 years. No specific maintenance required, but inspect during routine service.
Exhaust Hangers and Clamps
Signs of Failure:
- Sagging exhaust pipes
- Increased vibration
- Rattling sounds
- Visible rubber deterioration
Service Schedule: Replace rubber hangers every 5-7 years or when showing signs of wear. Inspect clamps annually for proper tension.
Note: All service intervals are approximate and may vary based on driving conditions, climate, and vehicle usage. Regular inspections during routine maintenance can help identify potential issues before they become serious problems.
How It Works
- Get a quote online or set-up a time to have your vehicle looked at.
- Pick time slots that work for you, easily, online.
- We will confirm appointments and send reminders.
- Our mechanics bring everything that is needed to you.
- All you have to do is provided a safe area for the work to be performed.
What we need from you
- A safe place to work on your vehicle
- No working on the side of busy roads
- No working on unstable or steep surfaces.
- We do not perform repairs during severe weather.
- Authorization from a property owner or management.
- Repair work done in a parking lot or at your requires permission.
- We do not do repairs in areas restricted by law.
Common Questions
Service Area
Our primary service area is greater Grand Rapids and includes Comstock Park, East Grand Rapids, Grandville, Kentwood, Walker, and Wyoming
Our secondary service area is provided by our Belding location and includes: Belding, Greenville, Ionia and the sorrounding areas.
Contact us if you have any questions about where we provide services.
