Tail Pipe

Remove and replace the tail pipe assembly on the 2007-2013 Mercedes-Benz S65 AMG V12 BiTurbo, including exhaust hangers and flange connections.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Tail pipe assembly × 1 — Use OEM specification
• Exhaust flange gasket × 1 — Use OEM specification
• Exhaust hanger rubber mounts (if deteriorated) × 2 — Use OEM specification

Preparation

1. Ensure exhaust system is completely cool to the touch
2. Park vehicle on level ground and engage parking brake
3. Apply penetrating oil to all exhaust flange bolts and hanger bolts, allow to soak
4. Raise rear of vehicle and support securely on jack stands at manufacturer-specified lift points
5. Inspect tail pipe routing and note positions of heat shields and hangers for reassembly

Procedure

1. 1

   Remove heat shield (if equipped)
   Locate any heat shields covering the tail pipe or surrounding components. Remove heat shield mounting bolts using a 13mm socket. Set heat shields and bolts aside for reinstallation.
   Torque spec

   Heat Shield Bolts10 Nm (7 lb-ft)
2. 2

   Support tail pipe assembly
   Position a floor jack or suitable support under the tail pipe assembly near the rear axle to support its weight during removal. Do not apply upward pressure, just provide support to prevent the pipe from falling when disconnected.
   ⚠The dual tail pipes on the S65 AMG weigh approximately 30-40 lbs. Ensure adequate support before disconnecting.
3. 3

   Disconnect rear exhaust hangers
   Locate the rubber exhaust hangers supporting the tail pipe assembly (typically 2 hangers near the rear). Use an exhaust hanger removal tool or pry bar to carefully separate the metal hanger hooks from the rubber mounts. Work the hooks out by pushing the pipe toward the hanger to create slack, then pulling the hook free.
4. 4

   Remove exhaust flange bolts
   Locate the flange connection between the tail pipe and the mid-pipe section (typically just forward of the rear axle). Using a 15mm socket, remove the exhaust flange bolts connecting the tail pipe to the upstream exhaust section. There are typically 3-4 bolts at this connection. Note the condition of the flange gasket.
   ⚠If bolts are severely corroded and break during removal, the flange studs may need to be replaced or extracted before reassembly.
   Torque spec

   Exhaust Flange Bolts45 Nm (33 lb-ft)
5. 5

   Separate flange connection
   With bolts removed, carefully separate the flange connection. The tail pipe assembly may be stuck due to carbon buildup. Gently tap the flange with a rubber mallet if needed to break the seal. Lower the tail pipe slightly on the support jack to create clearance.
6. 6

   Remove tail pipe assembly
   With all fasteners and hangers disconnected, carefully lower and remove the tail pipe assembly from under the vehicle. Maneuver it rearward and down, being careful not to damage surrounding components, fuel lines, or the rear diffuser. The dual outlet design requires careful angling during removal.
7. 7

   Clean flange surfaces
   Using a wire brush and scraper, thoroughly clean the mating surface of the exhaust flange on the mid-pipe section. Remove all old gasket material, carbon deposits, and corrosion to ensure proper sealing with the new gasket. Inspect flange for cracks or warping.
8. 8

   Prepare new tail pipe assembly
   Inspect the new tail pipe assembly for shipping damage. Install a new exhaust flange gasket onto the flange at the front of the new tail pipe. Apply anti-seize compound to the threads of the exhaust flange bolts.
9. 9

   Install new tail pipe assembly
   Carefully maneuver the new tail pipe assembly into position under the vehicle, angling the dual outlets through the rear diffuser opening. Support the assembly with the floor jack. Align the front flange with the mid-pipe flange connection, ensuring the gasket seats properly.
10. 10

    Install and torque flange bolts
    Install the exhaust flange bolts finger-tight, ensuring the flange surfaces are flush and aligned. Once all bolts are started, torque them in a cross-pattern sequence to the specified value using a torque wrench. This ensures even clamping pressure and prevents leaks.
    Torque spec

    Exhaust Flange Bolts45 Nm (33 lb-ft)
11. 11

    Reconnect exhaust hangers
    Align the tail pipe hanger hooks with the rubber exhaust mounts. Apply a small amount of soapy water or silicone spray to the rubber mounts to ease installation. Push the pipe toward the mount to create slack, then work the hook into the rubber mount. Ensure hangers are fully seated and the tail pipe sits at the correct height and position.
12. 12

    Reinstall heat shields
    Reposition any heat shields removed during disassembly. Install and torque the heat shield bolts to specification. Ensure heat shields do not contact the exhaust pipe and have proper clearance.
    Torque spec

    Heat Shield Bolts10 Nm (7 lb-ft)
13. 13

    Verify tail pipe alignment and clearance
    Check that the tail pipe tips are centered in the rear diffuser cutouts and sit at equal height. Verify adequate clearance exists between the tail pipes and all surrounding components including the rear axle, fuel tank, chassis, and body panels. Adjust hanger positions if needed.

Reassembly

1. Ensure all exhaust hangers are properly seated in rubber mounts
2. Verify tail pipe tips are symmetrically positioned in rear diffuser openings
3. Double-check that all heat shields are reinstalled with proper clearance

Verification

• Lower vehicle from jack stands and remove all tools from under vehicle
• Start engine and allow to idle, listening for exhaust leaks at the flange connection
• Check for visible exhaust gases escaping from joints during cold start
• Perform a brief test drive and verify no rattles, vibrations, or exhaust smell in cabin
• Re-check tail pipe alignment after test drive to ensure hangers have not shifted
• Inspect flange connection area for soot marks indicating leaks after first drive cycle

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