Hey guys, long-time lurker here, first time posting (I forgot my old screename! duh). I have a 2001 Max SE with 38k miles. The car is a lease and my DD.

Few days ago I suddenly noticed an obvious exhaust leak. I jacked up the car and, where the rear muffler section bolts to the b-pipe, there is a leak. The pipe on the muffler side separated from the flange at the seam, probably due to rust. The flange and pipe seem to be in decent shape though.

Has anyone had this happen before? I have never had a car with this few miles on it develop an exhaust leak of this type, I'm pretty disappointed.

The lease ends soon, and I've already been forced to do a complete brake job, and it will likely need tires too. I really don't want to put any more money into the car, although I have taken good care of it. (Last lease I'll ever do). Can the pipe simply be welded back to the flange? Any other options? $$$?

 

Hi, I had the same problem on my wife's 98 Maxima. Used a reciprical saw ( sawsalll ) and cut the flanges off where the welds had rusted thru. Then bought an oversize piece of exhaust pipe at the part store and 2 clamps. Slid the oversize pipe ove the two sections of pipe and used the 2 clamps to hold it in place.
Midas wanted 500 bucks to replace the exhaust system said it was all rusted.
Been over a year and the rest of the exhaust is solid.
Hope that helps.
Paul