3rd & 4th Generation (1992–1996 & 1997–2001)Toyota Camry Discussion for years: 1992-1996 & 1997-2001
Topics of discussion range from fuel economy, safety, modifications, performance all involving America's favorite family car, the Toyota Camry.
Dropped of my 1998 Toyota Camry V6 to get the oil changed. Figured there was some sort of exhaust leak because I have a stock exhaust on the car, but the car sounds like it has a muffler system installed. The guy checked it out and told me the Y-Pipe is the portion that is leaking and the part would be $630.00! I'm like what?! He broke it down into $550.00 for the actual pipe, $40.00 for hangers, and another $40.00 for bolts, gaskets and nuts. Then he goes on to say $140.00 for the labor to replace this part.
What are my options at this point? The car sounds like it's a Honda Civic and it's draining gasoline like no other. Should I get it fixed with the mechanics parts or should I see if there's cheaper parts out there?
By Y-pipe, I assume you mean the front header exhaust pipe. THey usually start leaking at the flex joint. This can be easily repaired at a muffler shop by welding in a new replacement for the flex section for usually $100. A new Y-pipe is usually < $250 so I think this guy is ripping you off big time. Go to a muffler shop and get a second opinion.
By Y-pipe, I assume you mean the front header exhaust pipe. THey usually start leaking at the flex joint. This can be easily repaired at a muffler shop by welding in a new replacement for the flex section for usually $100. A new Y-pipe is usually < $250 so I think this guy is ripping you off big time. Go to a muffler shop and get a second opinion.
dave mc
I concur with this ^^.
Get an estimate at a local exhaust specialty shop. (NOT Midas!)
I will third this suggestion. I had the flexpipe replaced on my 4 cylinder 94 Camry about a year ago at an independent muffler shop, that I have been using for years for my exhuast work. I paid $150. That is in the Chicago area where prices are generally pretty high.
Also note, this flexpipe or Y pipe has nothing to do with your car drinking gas. That may be another problem.
Dropped of my 1998 Toyota Camry V6 to get the oil changed. Figured there was some sort of exhaust leak because I have a stock exhaust on the car, but the car sounds like it has a muffler system installed. The guy checked it out and told me the Y-Pipe is the portion that is leaking and the part would be $630.00! I'm like what?! He broke it down into $550.00 for the actual pipe, $40.00 for hangers, and another $40.00 for bolts, gaskets and nuts. Then he goes on to say $140.00 for the labor to replace this part.
What are my options at this point? The car sounds like it's a Honda Civic and it's draining gasoline like no other. Should I get it fixed with the mechanics parts or should I see if there's cheaper parts out there?
Frustrated Andrew!
$140 for labor, just to fix that, seemingly small, issue? O_o
My mechanic literally ripped my car apart and put it back together, fixed my numerous oil leaks, replaced the entire timing system, replaced a motor under my dash, replaced the O rings in the engine, did my breaks, and replaced a tie rod for $225 in labor. O_o
My total repair came to $837. I'm still pissed though, because now the drivers side door lock is jammed, and I have to unlock it from the passengers side. I can get my key in, but it wont turn. Otherwise, I can lock it and open it still from the inside of the drivers side. Weird.
That's what happens when you own a 16 year old car. *Sigh*
__________________ 1993 Toyota Camry LE 4 Cylinder Running 100%
As the others have said, go to a local muffler shop but I would avoid Mieneke and Midas. Find a local independent muffler shop . They will treat you right. Trust me this is what the dealer will be doing with it. The dealer will not do exhaust work in house unless it is something very straight forward.
take a weekend off...and do it yourself. Its going to be a pain, but it'll be a learning experience. by the y pipe and do it yourself and a couple of good friends that'll help you out
__________________ 99 5s w/ V6 '01 Solara Brake Conversion & 1985 AW11 MR2 5spd Camry:Tokico Blue's w/ Ebiach Lowering Springs on Motegi FF7 17" Rims with FALKEN ALL SEASON SPORT TIRES MR2: 7A-GE
FS: Gen 4.5 Clear lense/JVC HU&Radar
take a weekend off...and do it yourself. Its going to be a pain, but it'll be a learning experience. by the y pipe and do it yourself and a couple of good friends that'll help you out
Exhaust shops (at least around here) are so quick and cheap that I can't even justify a DIY repair. I've had many exhaust leaks over the years, and it's never taken more than a couple hours and $50 or less at a local exhaust shop.
My advice - take it to an exhaust shop.
__________________ Old and Busted: '84 Camry LE <2S-E>|| '89 Celica GT-S <3S-GE>|| '91 Camry LE <3S-FE>|| '95 Camry LE V6 <1MZ-FE>
Man, wish I read this thread sooner. My email crashed and I didn't get a response email sooner so I didn't know anyone has read it. Thanks for all the support, but after hearing about all your opinions, I definitely feel like I'm being ripped off. However it's too late, my wife decided to tell the guy to fix it!
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