GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Step

Action

Value(s)

Yes

No

1

When cold and after a warmup, check for heat shields that contact the exhaust pipes.

Are the heat shields misaligned or loose?

--

Go to Step 2

Go to Step 3

2

Tighten the heat shield fasteners to the value given. If necessary, align the exhaust system.

Is there still exhaust noise?

2 N·m (18 lb in)

Go to Step 3

System OK

3

Check for leaks at the manifold or the pipe connections.

Are there leaks?

--

Go to Step 4

Go to Step 5

4

Tighten the leaking connections according to specifications. Refer to Fastener Tightening Specifications

Is there still a exhaust noise?

--

Go to Step 5

System OK

5

Inspect the muffler.

Is the muffler burned or blown out?

--

Go to Step 6

Go to Step 7

6

Replace the muffler.

Is there still exhaust noise?

--

Go to Step 7

System OK

7

Look for a burned or rusted exhaust pipe.

Is the exhaust pipe burned or rusted?

--

Go to Step 8

Go to Step 9

8

Replace the exhaust pipe.

Is there still exhaust noise?

--

Go to Step 9

System OK

9

Check for a leak at the exhaust crossover pipe at the manifold flange.

Is there a leak?

--

Go to Step 10

Go to Step 11

10

Repair the leak.

Is there still exhaust noise?

--

Go to Step 11

System OK

11

Check for a cracked or broken manifold.

Is the manifold cracked or broken?

--

Go to Step 12

Go to Step 13

12

Replace the manifold. Refer to Exhaust Manifold Replacement in Engine Mechanical.

Is there still exhaust noise?

--

Go to Step 13

System OK

13

Check for a leak between the manifold and the cylinder head.

Is there a leak?

--

Go to Step 14

--

14

Tighten the manifold-to-cylinder head fasteners to specifications.

Is there still exhaust noise?

--

--

System OK