This procedure covers the removal and replacement of the exhaust resonator on a 2018-2024 Toyota Camry with the 2.5L I4 engine, including disconnection of clamps, hangers, and proper torque specifications during reinstallation.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Exhaust resonator assembly × 1 — Use OEM specification
• Exhaust gaskets (if flanged connection) × 2 — Use OEM specification
• Exhaust rubber hangers (as needed) × 2 — Replace if damaged

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level ground and allow exhaust system to cool completely (minimum 1 hour after operation)
2. Place wheel chocks behind rear wheels
3. Raise front of vehicle and support securely on jack stands at manufacturer-specified lift points
4. Visually inspect exhaust system and identify resonator location (mid-section between catalytic converter and muffler)
5. Spray all exhaust clamps and fasteners with penetrating oil and allow to soak for 15-30 minutes

Procedure

1. 1

   Remove heat shield (if equipped)
   Locate any heat shields covering the resonator section. Using a 10mm socket, remove the heat shield mounting bolts. Set aside heat shield and hardware for reinstallation. Some models may not have a heat shield in this location.
   Torque spec

   Heat Shield Bolts14 Nm (10 lb-ft)
2. 2

   Disconnect front exhaust clamp or flange
   Identify the connection type at the front of the resonator (toward catalytic converter). If a band clamp connection, loosen the clamp bolts using a 14mm socket and remove the clamp. If a flanged connection, remove the flange bolts using a 14mm socket. Note the orientation of any gaskets or seals for reinstallation.
   ⚠If flange bolts are severely corroded, apply additional penetrating oil and use a breaker bar. Avoid breaking bolts as removal from exhaust pipe requires drilling.
   Torque spec

   Exhaust Clamps55 Nm (41 lb-ft)

   Flange Bolts45 Nm (33 lb-ft)
3. 3

   Disconnect rear exhaust clamp or flange
   Locate the connection at the rear of the resonator (toward muffler). Using a 14mm socket, loosen and remove the band clamp or flange bolts as applicable. Separate the joint slightly to break the seal but do not fully disconnect yet.
   Torque spec

   Exhaust Clamps55 Nm (41 lb-ft)

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

   Support resonator section
   Position a jack stand or have an assistant support the resonator from below to prevent it from falling once hangers are disconnected. The resonator assembly weighs approximately 8-12 pounds.
5. 5

   Remove rubber hanger mounts
   Locate the rubber hanger isolators connecting the resonator to the vehicle body (typically 1-2 hangers). Using a pry bar or exhaust hanger removal tool, carefully pry the metal hangar rod out of the rubber isolator. Apply lubricant (soapy water or penetrating oil) to ease removal. Inspect rubber isolators for cracking or deterioration.
   ⚠Do not cut rubber hangers unless they are being replaced. Reuse is possible if undamaged.
6. 6

   Remove resonator assembly
   With hangers disconnected and joints loosened, carefully lower and remove the resonator assembly from the vehicle. Maneuver it around any crossmembers or suspension components. Remove and discard old gaskets from flanged connections.
7. 7

   Clean mating surfaces
   Using a wire brush, thoroughly clean the exhaust pipe connection surfaces at both front and rear joints. Remove all carbon deposits, old gasket material, and corrosion to ensure proper sealing. Inspect pipes for damage or excessive corrosion.
8. 8

   Install new resonator
   Position the new resonator assembly under the vehicle, aligning the hanger rods with the rubber isolators. Install new gaskets on flanged connections if applicable. Loosely connect the front joint first, then the rear joint. Do not fully tighten fasteners yet.
9. 9

   Attach rubber hanger mounts
   Using a pry bar and lubricant, insert the resonator hanger rods into the rubber body-mounted isolators. Ensure hangers are fully seated and resonator is properly positioned with adequate clearance from body panels, suspension, and driveline components (minimum 1 inch clearance all around).
10. 10

    Align and torque exhaust connections
    Verify resonator is properly aligned with no binding or stress on connections. Starting from the front connection, torque band clamps to 55 Nm (41 lb-ft) or flange bolts to 45 Nm (33 lb-ft) as applicable. Then torque rear connection to same specification. Ensure exhaust system hangs evenly with proper clearances maintained.
    ℹ️Proper alignment is critical. The exhaust system should hang naturally without forced alignment or stress at connections.
    Torque spec

    Exhaust Clamps55 Nm (41 lb-ft)

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

    Reinstall heat shield
    If a heat shield was removed, position it over the resonator section and install mounting bolts. Torque heat shield bolts to 14 Nm (10 lb-ft). Verify heat shield does not contact exhaust pipe and has proper clearance for thermal expansion.
    Torque spec

    Heat Shield Bolts14 Nm (10 lb-ft)

Reassembly

1. Double-check all clamp and flange bolt torque values using torque wrench
2. Verify all rubber hangers are properly seated and exhaust system has adequate clearance from vehicle body and suspension components
3. Remove jack stands and carefully lower vehicle to ground
4. Perform visual inspection of completed work from underneath vehicle one final time

Verification

• Start engine and allow to idle. Listen for exhaust leaks at resonator connections (hissing or ticking sounds indicate leaks)
• With engine running, visually inspect connections for exhaust gas escaping
• Rev engine to 2500-3000 RPM and verify no abnormal exhaust noises or vibrations
• Check that exhaust system does not contact body or suspension during engine operation
• Test drive vehicle and verify normal exhaust sound with no rattles, leaks, or resonance issues
• After test drive, re-inspect all connections for leaks and verify torque values after thermal cycling

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