Exhaust System

Exhaust System

The exhaust system consists of:

- a turbocharger-mounted catalytic converter (2.0L Gasoline Turbocharged Direct Injection (GTDI)).

- a one-piece LH catalytic converter manifold (3.5L and 3.7L).

- a RH exhaust manifold-mounted catalytic converter (3.5L and 3.7L).

- a exhaust flexible pipe (2.0L Gasoline Turbocharged Direct Injection (GTDI)).

- an exhaust Y-pipe with exhaust flexible pipe(s) (3.5L and 3.7L).

- a muffler and tailpipe assembly.

- isolators installed on the body and muffler hangers.

The exhaust system provides an exit for exhaust gases and reduces engine noise by passing exhaust gases through the catalytic converters, a muffler assembly and resonator. Rubber exhaust hanger isolators attach the exhaust system to the mounting hooks.

Catalytic Converter

The catalytic converter plays a major role in the emission control system by acting as a gas reactor. Its catalytic function speeds the heat-producing chemical reaction of components in the exhaust gases to reduce air pollutants.

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

Precautions

NOTICE: Do not use leaded fuel in a vehicle equipped with a catalytic converter. In a vehicle that is continually misfueled, the lead in the fuel is deposited in the catalytic converter and completely blankets the catalyst. Lead reacts with platinum to "poison" the catalyst. Continued use of leaded fuel can destroy the catalyst and render the catalytic converter useless.

NOTICE: The addition of lead to the catalytic converter can also solidify the catalyst, causing excessive back pressure in the exhaust system and possibly causing engine damage.

NOTICE: Extremely high temperatures of 1,100°C (2,012°F) or above due to misfiring or an over-rich fuel/air mixture causes the ceramic substrate to sinter or burn, destroying the catalytic converter. Do not continue to operate the vehicle if the engine is misfiring, there is a power loss, or other unusual operating conditions, such as engine overheating and backfiring.

The catalytic converter provides a long life with no required maintenance.

Sound Insulators and Shields

Sound insulators and shields, attached to the underbody, protect the vehicle from exhaust system heat and should be inspected at regular intervals to make sure they are not dented or out of position. Replace a sound insulator and shield if it is damaged or shows signs of deterioration. The sound insulators and shields for the muffler, muffler pipe, resonator and catalytic converter pipe are installed separately.