This procedure covers the removal and replacement of the tail pipe assembly on a 2014-2019 Toyota Corolla with the 1.8L I4 engine, including detaching exhaust hangers and flange connections.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Tail pipe assembly × 1 — Use OEM specification
• Exhaust flange gasket × 1 — Use OEM specification
• Exhaust rubber hangers (if damaged) × 2 — Use OEM specification

Preparation

1. Ensure exhaust system is completely cool to the touch
2. Raise vehicle and support securely on jack stands at the rear lift points
3. Spray all exhaust flange bolts and hanger bolts with penetrating oil and allow to soak for 15-30 minutes
4. Inspect exhaust hangers for damage or deterioration and replace if necessary

Procedure

1. 1

   Remove rear exhaust hanger
   Locate the rearmost rubber exhaust hanger supporting the tail pipe near the rear bumper. Use a pry bar or hanger tool to carefully pull the exhaust pipe stud out of the rubber hanger. Work the stud side-to-side while pulling downward to release tension.
2. 2

   Remove middle exhaust hanger
   Locate the second rubber hanger approximately 18 inches forward of the rear hanger, typically positioned under the passenger seat area. Use the same technique to release the exhaust pipe stud from this rubber hanger mount.
3. 3

   Support the tail pipe
   With both hangers released, support the tail pipe assembly by hand or with a strap to prevent it from falling when the flange connection is loosened. The pipe will still be connected at the flange joint only.
4. 4

   Remove exhaust flange bolts
   Locate the two-bolt flange connection between the mid-pipe and tail pipe, positioned just forward of the rear axle beam. Using a 14mm socket with extension, remove both exhaust flange bolts. These bolts pass through the flange and may require holding the opposite side if they spin. If bolts are severely corroded, apply additional penetrating oil and allow to soak.
   ⚠If bolts break during removal, the flange studs may need to be drilled out or replaced with the mid-pipe assembly.
   Torque spec

   Exhaust Flange Bolts45 Nm (33 lb-ft)
5. 5

   Separate flange connection
   Once bolts are removed, pull the tail pipe rearward to separate the slip-fit flange connection. The tail pipe should slide off the connection studs. Remove the old flange gasket and discard.
6. 6

   Clean flange mating surfaces
   Use a wire brush to thoroughly clean the flange surface on the mid-pipe, removing all old gasket material, carbon deposits, and corrosion. Ensure the mating surface is flat and smooth for proper sealing with the new gasket.
7. 7

   Install new flange gasket
   Position the new exhaust flange gasket onto the mid-pipe flange studs or onto the tail pipe flange depending on gasket design. Ensure gasket is properly aligned with all bolt holes.
8. 8

   Install tail pipe assembly
   Align the new or replacement tail pipe with the mid-pipe flange connection. Slide the tail pipe flange forward onto the connection, ensuring the gasket remains properly positioned between the flanges.
9. 9

   Install and torque flange bolts
   Apply anti-seize compound to the threads of both exhaust flange bolts. Insert bolts through the flange and hand-tighten. Using a torque wrench, tighten both bolts in a cross-pattern to specification. Do not fully tighten one bolt before starting the other.
   Torque spec

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

    Reinstall exhaust hangers
    With the flange connection secured, align the tail pipe studs with the rubber exhaust hangers. Starting with the forward hanger, use a pry bar to stretch the rubber hanger over the pipe stud. Repeat for the rear hanger. Ensure both studs are fully seated in the center of the rubber hangers.
    ℹ️Applying a small amount of soapy water to the rubber hangers can make installation easier.

Reassembly

1. Verify all exhaust hangers are properly engaged and centered on their mounting studs
2. Ensure the tail pipe has adequate clearance from the rear suspension components, fuel tank, and body panels throughout its length
3. Check that the exhaust tip is properly aligned and positioned relative to the rear bumper cutout

Verification

• Lower vehicle and start engine, allowing it to idle for 2-3 minutes
• Check flange connection for exhaust leaks (listen for hissing and watch for visible exhaust escaping from the joint)
• Perform a visual inspection underneath the vehicle to confirm no contact between exhaust and suspension or body components
• Test drive vehicle and verify no rattling, excessive noise, or exhaust smell in cabin

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