2003 Corolla Muffler - Toyota Nation Forum : Toyota Car and Truck Forums

gflande1 · 02-22-2011, 08:21 AM

Took the corolla in to the dealership to get a couple things done. They called back saying they recommend some exhaust work. They found two half dollar sized holes in the pipe just before the muffler and quoted $1400 to replace the pipe. Just wanted to know if this is work that someone with no exhaust experience can do. From what I understand, the exhaust on this car is bolt in. I dont know much about the process, it doesnt look like it would be too difficult. Once I find out what pipe it is, I will let you know.

Any suggestions/recommendations would be appreciated. Also, should I use OEM or is there a cheaper/high quality alternative?

Thanks
Glen

mikered30 · 02-22-2011, 11:16 AM

It can be done with little experience. The hardest part will be getting the exhaust nuts and bolts off as they seize due to exhaust temps and rust. You will need a couple of jacks and jack stands, new hardware (bolts nuts, gaskets maybe hangers), antiseize, propane torch, penetrating oil, and tools. OEM is expensive but you can go aftermarket, depends on how long you want to keep your car. IIRC, that is the long pipe.

gflande1 · 02-23-2011, 03:06 PM

Stopped by Napa today to check prices. According to their parts diagram, the pipe that leads from the converter to the muffler is the resonator pipe. I would need to replace that ($73.99) and possible the muffler ($144.00). The biggest problem I see is the pipe that is there needs to be cut and the new one clamped in place. Have no idea how to cut something like this, dont really have the tools I would need for such a job. if anyone has a recommendation, please let me know.

Also, anyone have any experience with Napa muffler products? I like their rotors and brake pads, so I thought I would give them a shot.

Thanks
Glen

FinalGear · 02-24-2011, 07:13 AM

glande1...

your muffler is damage too?

gflande1 · 02-24-2011, 07:42 AM

From what they told me, the muffler is ok. I won't be able to get under the vehicle until this weekend. I was just thinking about replacing it as well since it doesn't seem to be expensive. This is the second muffler on this car in the last five years. Won't go back to monroe as the don't seem to last as long. I need to see how the muffler was installed, I remember them saying the had to make a pipe to install it.

FinalGear · 02-26-2011, 10:57 PM

glande1...

figure you should just go ahead and get the mid-pipe w/ the cat converter & the resonator..just make sure it's a bold on...and be careful of the 02 sensor

Rolla2007 · 03-06-2011, 09:54 PM

The reason they are quoting you 1400$ is most likely the cost to replace the whole length of the pipe, including the muffler. I know Toyota generally replaces the whole thing as 1 piece. Are the holes behind a rubber ring along the pipe just before the muffler? I know there is a rubber gasket (not sure what they call it) but a rubber part that expands that can actually cause it to go through the exhaust pipe causing a hole. If this is the issue, depending on how many miles you have on your car it might be able to be covered under warranty.