This procedure covers the removal and replacement of the exhaust resonator on a 2012-2017 Toyota Camry with the 2.5L I4 engine.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Exhaust resonator assembly × 1 — Use OEM specification or equivalent
• Exhaust flange gasket × 2 — Use OEM specification
• Exhaust rubber hangers × 2 — Replace if damaged

Preparation

1. Ensure the engine and exhaust system are completely cold
2. Park vehicle on level ground and apply parking brake
3. Place wheel chocks behind rear wheels
4. Raise front of vehicle with floor jack and support securely on jack stands at manufacturer-recommended lift points
5. Spray all exhaust flange bolts and clamps with penetrating oil and allow to soak for 15-20 minutes

Procedure

1. 1

   Locate the resonator
   Position yourself under the vehicle and locate the resonator assembly. It is positioned in the mid-section of the exhaust system, between the catalytic converter and the rear muffler. The resonator is a cylindrical component approximately 18-24 inches long.
2. 2

   Disconnect rear exhaust hanger
   Locate the rubber exhaust hanger at the rear of the resonator. Use an exhaust hanger removal tool or pry carefully with a flat pry bar to separate the exhaust hanger from the rubber isolator. Support the rear exhaust section to prevent it from hanging loose.
3. 3

   Remove rear flange connection
   Locate the flange connection between the resonator outlet and the rear exhaust pipe. Remove the two flange bolts and nuts using a 14mm socket. Separate the flange connection carefully. Remove and discard the old gasket.
   Torque spec

   Flange Bolts45 Nm (33 lb-ft)
4. 4

   Disconnect forward exhaust hanger
   Locate the rubber exhaust hanger at the forward section of the resonator. Use an exhaust hanger removal tool or pry carefully to separate the hanger from the rubber isolator. The resonator should now be primarily supported by the front flange connection only.
5. 5

   Remove forward flange connection
   Locate the flange connection between the resonator inlet and the front exhaust pipe (from catalytic converter). Remove the two flange bolts and nuts using a 14mm socket. Support the resonator as you remove the last fasteners. Carefully lower the resonator from the vehicle. Remove and discard the old gasket.
   Torque spec

   Flange Bolts45 Nm (33 lb-ft)
6. 6

   Clean flange surfaces
   Use a wire brush to thoroughly clean both flange surfaces on the front and rear exhaust pipes. Remove all old gasket material, carbon deposits, and corrosion. Clean surfaces ensure proper sealing with new gaskets.
7. 7

   Inspect exhaust hangers
   Inspect both rubber exhaust hangers for cracks, tears, or excessive deterioration. Replace any damaged hangers before installing the new resonator. Check that the hanger brackets on the chassis are secure and not rusted.
8. 8

   Position new resonator
   Install new flange gaskets on both the front and rear connection points. Position the new resonator assembly under the vehicle, aligning it with both flange connections. Insert the forward flange bolts finger-tight first to hold the resonator in position.
9. 9

   Install forward flange bolts
   Install both forward flange bolts and nuts. Tighten in a cross pattern to the specified torque using a torque wrench. Ensure the gasket remains properly seated during tightening.
   Torque spec

   Flange Bolts45 Nm (33 lb-ft)
10. 10

    Connect exhaust hangers
    Attach the forward exhaust hanger to its rubber isolator on the chassis. Then attach the rear exhaust hanger to its rubber isolator. You may need to use a pry bar or exhaust hanger tool to align and seat the hangers properly.
11. 11

    Install rear flange bolts
    Install both rear flange bolts and nuts connecting the resonator to the rear exhaust pipe. Tighten in a cross pattern to the specified torque using a torque wrench. Ensure the gasket remains properly seated during tightening.
    Torque spec

    Flange Bolts45 Nm (33 lb-ft)
12. 12

    Verify exhaust alignment
    Visually inspect the entire exhaust system to ensure proper alignment. Check that no components contact the chassis, fuel lines, or brake lines. Verify that all exhaust hangers are properly seated and that the system hangs level without stress on any connections.

Reassembly

1. Lower vehicle from jack stands carefully
2. Remove jack stands and lower vehicle completely to ground
3. Remove wheel chocks

Verification

• Start the engine and allow it to idle
• Listen carefully for exhaust leaks at both flange connections - a ticking or hissing sound indicates a leak
• Verify no exhaust odor in the cabin or around the vehicle
• Take the vehicle for a short test drive and listen for any rattling or abnormal exhaust noise
• After test drive, re-inspect all connections while engine is warm to verify no leaks are present
• Check that exhaust system does not contact any chassis components during engine movement

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