exhaust
Tail Pipe
for 2021 Toyota Camry 2.5L I4 · FWD
Difficulty
Easy
Time
30 min
Tools
8
Steps
10
This procedure covers removal and replacement of the tail pipe assembly on a 2018-2024 Toyota Camry with 2.5L I4 engine, including disconnecting the flange connection and exhaust hangers.
Warnings
⚠️Allow exhaust system to cool completely before starting work. Exhaust components can remain dangerously hot for over an hour after engine shutdown.
⚠Exhaust fasteners are prone to corrosion and may break during removal. Apply penetrating oil and allow to soak if fasteners are difficult to turn.
⚠Support the tail pipe during removal to prevent it from falling and causing injury.
Tools required
14mm socket and ratchetEssential
17mm socket and ratchetEssential
Torque wrenchEssential
Penetrating oil
Wire brush
Anti-seize compoundEssential
Floor jack and jack standsEssential
Rubber mallet
Parts
- Tail pipe assembly × 1 — Use OEM specification
- Exhaust flange gasket × 1 — Use OEM specification
- Exhaust flange bolts × 2 — M10 x 1.25 exhaust flange bolts
Preparation
- Ensure exhaust system is completely cool to the touch
- Raise vehicle securely on jack stands at manufacturer-specified lift points
- Spray all exhaust fasteners with penetrating oil and allow to soak for 10-15 minutes
- Inspect exhaust routing and hanger locations from underneath the vehicle
Procedure
- 1Locate tail pipe flange connectionFrom underneath the vehicle, locate the flange connection between the tail pipe and the mid-pipe section, positioned approximately under the rear passenger seat area. Identify the two flange bolts and the exhaust hangers supporting the tail pipe.
- 2Remove flange boltsUsing a 14mm socket, remove the two bolts connecting the tail pipe flange to the mid-pipe flange. Hold the nut on the backside if necessary to prevent spinning. If bolts are severely corroded, apply additional penetrating oil and allow to soak, or carefully apply heat if safe to do so.
- 3Disconnect rear exhaust hangerLocate the rubber exhaust hanger nearest the rear bumper. Support the tail pipe weight with one hand and use the other to push the hanger off its mounting bracket. A rubber mallet or twisting motion may help separate stubborn hangers. The hanger rubber isolator should remain attached to the tail pipe.
- 4Disconnect middle exhaust hangerMove forward to the next exhaust hanger supporting the tail pipe. While continuing to support the tail pipe assembly, push the rubber isolator off the mounting bracket. Work carefully to avoid tearing the rubber hangers if they will be reused.
- 5Remove tail pipe assemblyWith both hangers disconnected and flange bolts removed, carefully lower and remove the tail pipe assembly from underneath the vehicle. Separate the flange connection completely and maneuver the pipe out, being mindful of surrounding components.
- 6Clean flange surfaceUsing a wire brush, thoroughly clean the mating flange surface on the mid-pipe. Remove all old gasket material, rust, and debris to ensure a proper seal with the new gasket. Inspect the flange for cracks or damage.
- 7Install new flange gasketPosition the new exhaust flange gasket onto the mid-pipe flange, ensuring the bolt holes are properly aligned. The gasket should sit flat against the flange surface.
- 8Position new tail pipeLift the new tail pipe assembly into position, aligning the flange with the mid-pipe flange and gasket. Engage the rubber hangers onto their mounting brackets, starting with the rearmost hanger first to help support the assembly.
- 9Install and torque flange boltsApply anti-seize compound to the threads of the new flange bolts. Insert both bolts through the flanges and thread them by hand. Tighten the bolts in a cross pattern, then torque to specification using a torque wrench. Ensure the flanges are pulled together evenly with no gaps.Torque specExhaust Flange Bolts45 Nm (33 lb-ft)
- 10Verify hanger engagementConfirm both rubber exhaust hangers are fully seated on their mounting brackets. The tail pipe should hang naturally without binding or excessive tension on any hanger. Check that the tail pipe tip is positioned correctly relative to the rear bumper cutout with approximately 1 inch of clearance on all sides.
Reassembly
- Inspect all exhaust connections for proper alignment before lowering the vehicle
- Ensure no exhaust components contact the body, frame, or fuel system components
Verification
- Start the engine and listen for exhaust leaks at the flange connection
- Verify no unusual rattling or vibration from the exhaust system
- Visually inspect the flange connection while engine is running for signs of escaping exhaust gases
- Check tail pipe tip alignment and ensure proper clearance from bumper