Exhaust System: Description: Notes

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2003 Pontiac Grand Am, 2003 Oldsmobile Alero, 2003 Chevrolet Monte Carlo, and 2003 Chevrolet Impala. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

NOTE: Use of non-OEM parts may cause driveability concerns.

The exhaust system carries exhaust gases, treated by the catalytic converter, through a resonator, if applicable and into the exhaust muffler where exhaust noise is lessened. To secure the exhaust pipe to the exhaust manifold, a flange and seal-joint coupling is utilized. The exhaust system may utilize a slip-joint coupling design with a clamp and a "U" bolt or a flange connection with a gasket. Exhaust hangers and rubber insulators help to support the weight of the exhaust pipe along with insulating any exhaust system vibration, rattle, or noise. Exhaust hangers also space the exhaust system away from the underbody of the vehicle and allows the exhaust system to expand as the exhaust system warms up. Exhaust heat shields are used to protect the body and other components from damage due to the heat from the exhaust system. The exhaust system may be comprised of the following components:

Exhaust manifold.
Exhaust pipes.
Catalytic converters.
Exhaust muffler.
Exhaust resonator, if equipped.
Exhaust tail pipe, if equipped.
Exhaust hangers.
Exhaust heat shields.