I have around 155k miles on my car, and my stock Y-pipe is starting to show it.
My question is about weathering on my flex section. Now, over the flex section there is a wire mesh (cross hatch design), and mine is really starting to deterorate. A few holes here and there, but it looks like the flex section underneath the wire mesh is still ok.
Will the eroded wire mesh cause me any problems? Still pass inspection? Or is the wire mesh just there to protect it and I'll be fine.

 

It's there to serve its purpose, to flex when needed. It should be alright. It will pass inspections, ddepending on how strict they are in your area. Ever think about getting an aftermarket for 160?

 

Yeah, but I was waiting until this one died on me

I guess my question was, it looks like the main flex section underneath still "flexes", but I just want to make sure I know what the mire mesh is for. Is it just there to protect it? If so, I will prob be ok for a little while....until the NE weather gets to it. Then I can go aftermarket

 

Protect against the elements, but if you hear a hiss, or detect a leak somehow, you might want to replace it pretty soon, preferably before winter.