This procedure covers the removal and replacement of the muffler assembly on a 2018-2024 Toyota Camry with the 2.5L I4 engine.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Muffler assembly × 1 — Use OEM specification
• Exhaust gasket (muffler to mid-pipe) × 1 — Use OEM specification
• Rubber exhaust hangers × 2 — Replace if damaged

Preparation

1. Ensure engine and exhaust system are completely cold to the touch
2. Park vehicle on level ground and engage parking brake
3. Raise rear of vehicle using floor jack and support securely on jack stands under the frame rails
4. Apply penetrating oil to all muffler flange bolts, clamp bolts, and hanger bracket bolts. Allow to soak for 15-20 minutes
5. Inspect exhaust system from underneath to identify all connection points and hangers

Procedure

1. 1

   Disconnect muffler from mid-pipe
   Locate the flange connection between the muffler and mid-pipe, approximately under the rear passenger seat area. Remove the two flange bolts using a 14mm socket. If bolts are severely corroded, apply additional penetrating oil and use a breaker bar for extra leverage. Remove and discard the old exhaust gasket.
2. 2

   Remove muffler clamp (if equipped)
   Some Camry models use a band clamp at the muffler inlet. If present, locate the clamp bolt and remove it using a 14mm socket. Carefully work the clamp off the pipes, noting its orientation for reinstallation.
   Torque spec

   Muffler Clamps55 Nm (41 lb-ft)
3. 3

   Disconnect rear exhaust hangers
   Locate the two rubber exhaust hangers supporting the muffler assembly near the rear axle. Using a pry bar or by hand, push the muffler pipe hooks out of the rubber hangers. Work carefully to avoid tearing the rubber insulators. If hangers are cracked or deteriorated, mark them for replacement.
4. 4

   Remove hanger bracket bolts (if applicable)
   Some muffler assemblies have metal bracket supports bolted to the underbody. If present, remove the hanger bracket bolts using a 14mm socket. Support the muffler weight with one hand while removing the final fasteners.
   Torque spec

   Hanger Bracket Bolts25 Nm (18 lb-ft)
5. 5

   Lower and remove muffler assembly
   With all fasteners and hangers disconnected, carefully lower the muffler assembly from the vehicle. The assembly may require slight rotation or angling to clear the rear suspension components and underbody. Remove from under the vehicle.
6. 6

   Clean mating surfaces
   Using a wire brush, thoroughly clean the flange surface on the mid-pipe where the muffler connects. Remove all old gasket material, carbon deposits, and corrosion to ensure a proper seal. Clean the threads on any reusable bolts.
7. 7

   Install new gasket and position muffler
   Place the new exhaust gasket onto the mid-pipe flange. Position the new muffler assembly under the vehicle and align it with the mid-pipe flange connection. Insert the muffler pipe hooks into the rubber exhaust hangers, ensuring proper support.
8. 8

   Install and torque flange bolts
   Apply anti-seize compound to the threads of the flange bolts. Thread both bolts into the flange by hand to ensure proper alignment. Using a torque wrench and 14mm socket, tighten the flange bolts in an alternating pattern to the specified torque of 41 Nm (30 lb-ft).
9. 9

   Install muffler clamp (if equipped)
   If your model uses a band clamp, position it over the joint with the bolt in the accessible location. Thread the clamp bolt by hand, then torque to 55 Nm (41 lb-ft) using a 14mm socket and torque wrench.
   Torque spec

   Muffler Clamps55 Nm (41 lb-ft)
10. 10

    Install hanger bracket bolts (if applicable)
    If hanger brackets were removed, reattach them to the underbody. Thread bolts by hand first, then torque to 25 Nm (18 lb-ft) using a 14mm socket and torque wrench.
    Torque spec

    Hanger Bracket Bolts25 Nm (18 lb-ft)
11. 11

    Verify exhaust alignment and clearance
    Visually inspect the entire exhaust system to ensure proper alignment. Verify that the muffler and all pipes have adequate clearance from the fuel tank, rear axle, suspension components, and underbody. The system should hang evenly with no contact points. Adjust hanger positions if necessary.

Reassembly

1. Verify all rubber hangers are properly seated and supporting the exhaust system
2. Double-check that all fasteners have been torqued to specification
3. Ensure exhaust system has proper clearance from all underbody components with at least 10mm gap
4. Lower vehicle from jack stands

Verification

• Start engine and allow to idle. Listen for any exhaust leaks at the flange connection - a ticking or hissing sound indicates a leak
• With engine running, visually inspect the muffler flange joint for any escaping exhaust gases
• Rev engine to 2500-3000 RPM and verify no abnormal exhaust noise or vibration
• After a short test drive, re-inspect all connection points while engine is warm (but not hot) to verify no leaks have developed
• Verify exhaust system is not contacting any underbody components during acceleration or over bumps

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