Exhaust Replacement in Tyne and Wear

Most exhausts are made in sections: a front pipe, a middle section and a rear silencer box, with a catalytic converter and sometimes a particulate filter in the line. Replacement can mean one of those sections or the lot.

At Banks of the Tyne in Hebburn we replace exhaust sections and systems after an inspection. Smaller leaks and mounting problems are covered on the exhaust repairs page.

When replacement is the better route

Replacement makes sense when the damage is widespread, or where a repair would not last.

• Rust has weakened the pipe along much of its length
• Several joints and sections have failed close together
• The silencer box is holed, collapsed or has broken internally
• Impact damage has crushed or split the pipe
• A previous repair has failed more than once

How the work is done

The car goes on a ramp and the old exhaust is unbolted or cut away at the points that suit the fitting. Rusted fixings often have to be cut out. New sections are offered up, joints aligned, gaskets and clamps or welded joints used as appropriate, and the system is hung on its mountings.

We check the alignment so the exhaust does not touch the body or suspension, and then run the engine to check for leaks.

What affects the choice and the cost

Whether a section or a full system is needed is the first question. The second is the type of part: some are made to a specific model, and others are universal parts that must be shaped to fit. Availability varies by car.

The catalytic converter or particulate filter is the other big variable. They are costly parts, and we only recommend replacing them when testing shows they have failed. We go through the options at the estimate so you can decide.

After the new exhaust

A new exhaust can smell or give off light smoke at first as protective coatings burn off. It should settle quickly. Short trips are hard on any exhaust because moisture does not burn off, so an occasional longer drive helps it last.

If you notice a new rattle, blow or smell, tell us promptly. If fumes are entering the car, ventilate it and stop driving until it has been checked.