Description and Operation - Exhaust System - Overview

Overview

NOTICE: Do not use leaded fuel in a vehicle equipped with a catalytic converter. In a vehicle that is repeatedly fueled with leaded fuel, lead will accumulate in the catalytic converter and completely plug the catalyst. Lead reacts with the platinum, becoming a catalyst "poison". Continued use of leaded fuel can damage the catalyst and render it useless. Lead deposits in the catalytic converter can also harden the catalyst, causing excessive back pressure in the exhaust system and possible engine damage.

NOTICE: Extremely high temperatures of 1100 °C or higher, caused by misfires or an overly rich air-fuel mixture, will cause the ceramic substrate to sinter or melt, destroying the catalytic converter. Do not continue to operate the vehicle if the engine misfires, loses power, or shows other abnormal operating conditions, such as engine overheating and backfiring.

NOTICE: Do not use oil-based or grease-based lubricants to clean the insulators. These lubricants can damage the rubber. This may cause the insulator to separate from the exhaust hanger bracket during vehicle operation.

The exhaust system provides an exit for exhaust gases and reduces noise as the exhaust gases pass through the catalytic converters and the muffler assembly. The catalytic converters also play an important role in reducing air pollution.

• The exhaust manifold with two catalytic converters connected to a flexible pipe, which is attached to the engine cylinder head.

• Exhaust bypass valve - if equipped

• Muffler and tailpipe assembly.

• Insulators installed on the body and muffler hangers.

The catalytic converter plays an important role in the emission control system by acting as a gas reactor. Its function is to accelerate the chemical reaction of exhaust gas components, releasing heat, to reduce air pollution.

The catalyst material inside the catalytic converter consists of a ceramic substrate.

The catalytic converter is designed for a long service life. No maintenance is required.

The exhaust bypass valve opens and closes mechanically depending on engine exhaust pressure and assists in acoustic tuning of the exhaust system. The valve, if equipped, requires no maintenance and is serviced as part of the muffler and tailpipe assembly.

The heat insulators and shields attached to the underbody protect the vehicle from exhaust system heat and must be inspected regularly to make sure they are not dented or displaced. If the heat insulator and shield are damaged or show signs of wear, install a new insulator and shield. Heat insulators and shields on the muffler, tailpipe, and catalytic converter pipe are installed separately.

Some exhaust system fasteners must be discarded and new ones installed, as specified in the procedures. Discard all damaged or heavily rusted fasteners and install new ones as necessary. Some exhaust pipe fasteners are of the prevailing-torque design. Use only new fasteners with the same part number as the original. Tighten the fasteners to the specified torque during assembly to ensure proper retention of the exhaust components.