Replace the rear muffler assembly on a 2012-2017 Toyota Camry 2.5L I4, including disconnection from the resonator pipe and removal of rubber hangers.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Muffler assembly × 1 — Use OEM or equivalent Walker/Magnaflow
• Exhaust flange gasket × 1 — Use OEM specification
• Rubber exhaust hangers × 2 — Replace if damaged

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level surface and apply parking brake
2. Place wheel chocks behind front wheels
3. Allow exhaust system to cool completely (minimum 1 hour after driving)
4. Raise rear of vehicle with floor jack and support securely on jack stands at manufacturer jack points
5. Spray all exhaust fasteners with penetrating oil and allow to soak for 15-30 minutes

Procedure

1. 1

   Locate muffler and support points
   Position yourself under the rear of the vehicle and locate the muffler assembly. Identify the flange connection at the resonator pipe (forward of muffler), the two rubber hangers supporting the muffler body, and the tailpipe exit. Verify you have clear access to all mounting points.
2. 2

   Remove flange bolts at resonator connection
   Locate the two-bolt flange connection where the muffler inlet connects to the resonator pipe outlet. Using a 14mm socket, remove both flange bolts. Support the muffler with one hand while removing the second bolt to prevent it from dropping. Separate the flange connection and remove the old gasket.
   ⚠Flange bolts may be seized. Apply additional penetrating oil and allow time to soak if resistance is encountered.
3. 3

   Disconnect front rubber hanger
   Locate the front rubber exhaust hanger that supports the muffler near the inlet. Use a pry bar or pull firmly by hand to separate the metal hook on the muffler from the rubber grommet attached to the vehicle body. A twisting motion while pulling helps release the connection.
4. 4

   Disconnect rear rubber hanger
   Locate the rear rubber exhaust hanger near the tailpipe. Using the same technique, separate the metal hook from the rubber grommet. The muffler assembly should now be free from the vehicle.
5. 5

   Remove muffler assembly
   Carefully lower the muffler assembly and maneuver it out from under the vehicle. Inspect the rubber hangers on the vehicle body for cracks, tears, or deterioration. Replace if damaged.
6. 6

   Clean flange surfaces
   Using a wire brush, thoroughly clean the flange surface on the resonator pipe where the new muffler will connect. Remove all old gasket material, carbon deposits, and corrosion to ensure a proper seal. Wipe clean with a rag.
7. 7

   Prepare new muffler
   Unpack the new muffler assembly and verify it matches the original configuration. Install a new exhaust flange gasket onto the inlet flange of the new muffler. Apply anti-seize compound to the threads of both new flange bolts.
8. 8

   Install new muffler onto hangers
   Position the new muffler assembly under the vehicle. Start by connecting the rear rubber hanger first, pushing the metal hook firmly into the rubber grommet. Then connect the front rubber hanger. The muffler should be suspended and aligned roughly with the resonator pipe.
   ℹ️A helper or temporary support may be useful to hold the muffler in position during installation.
9. 9

   Connect flange to resonator pipe
   Align the muffler inlet flange with the resonator outlet flange, ensuring the new gasket is properly positioned between them. Insert both flange bolts and thread them by hand to ensure proper alignment. Do not fully tighten yet.
10. 10

    Torque flange bolts to specification
    Using a torque wrench, tighten both flange bolts in a cross pattern to the specified torque of 41.0 Nm (30.0 lb-ft). Verify anti-seize was applied to threads before final torquing.
11. 11

    Verify alignment and clearance
    Inspect the entire muffler assembly to ensure proper alignment. Check that the tailpipe exits cleanly without contacting the bumper or body panels. Verify at least 25mm (1 inch) clearance between muffler and all chassis components, fuel tank, and body panels. Adjust rubber hangers if needed to achieve proper positioning.

Reassembly

1. Visually inspect all connections for proper engagement and torque
2. Verify tailpipe alignment relative to bumper cutout
3. Lower vehicle from jack stands carefully

Verification

• Start engine and listen for exhaust leaks at the flange connection (hissing or ticking sounds indicate a leak)
• With engine running, feel around the flange connection for escaping exhaust gases
• Allow engine to reach operating temperature and re-check for leaks
• Perform a short test drive and re-inspect flange connection and hanger positioning after vehicle has cooled
• Verify no rattling or contact noises from exhaust system during driving

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