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2021 TOYOTA CAMRY

2.5L I4FWDAUTOMATICgas
1 active safety recall on this vehicle — view recalls
Repairs435Labor595Torque4685Fluid6DTC940Battery1Maintenance0Recalls1
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

  1. Ensure exhaust system is completely cool to the touch
  2. Raise vehicle securely on jack stands at manufacturer-specified lift points
  3. Spray all exhaust fasteners with penetrating oil and allow to soak for 10-15 minutes
  4. Inspect exhaust routing and hanger locations from underneath the vehicle

Procedure

  1. 1
    Locate tail pipe flange connection
    From 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.
  2. 2
    Remove flange bolts
    Using 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.
  3. 3
    Disconnect rear exhaust hanger
    Locate 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.
  4. 4
    Disconnect middle exhaust hanger
    Move 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.
  5. 5
    Remove tail pipe assembly
    With 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.
  6. 6
    Clean flange surface
    Using 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.
  7. 7
    Install new flange gasket
    Position 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.
  8. 8
    Position new tail pipe
    Lift 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.
  9. 9
    Install and torque flange bolts
    Apply 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 spec
    Exhaust Flange Bolts45 Nm (33 lb-ft)
  10. 10
    Verify hanger engagement
    Confirm 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

  1. Inspect all exhaust connections for proper alignment before lowering the vehicle
  2. 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

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