I got a "exhaust leak before cat" note at the smog. No codes or anything else. All other tests passed.

Car has 225k. 2010 LT.

Should I drop the whole thing and inspect? Or is there a known common point of failure?

Also which thing is the cat? I think I saw 2 or 3 big units along the exhaust?

Lastly does this bolt up to the exhaust header on the base models? I know on the ss it goes to the turbo.

Also, what's this type of flex pipe called? The SS has a mesh thing instead of these metal ribbed things.

 

Also would this be an option?

 

Did the smog pass? Most likely a gasket or a small hairline crack in the flex pipe.

I'm still amazed. My 1999 4.3 has the factory exhaust in 2024 al be it a bit rusty. Back east (NE) the stock one went two-3 yrs max then it was Walker lifetime muffler.
Give 'em the muffler we'll make it up on the tubing so they're sales strategy went in those days.

 

Everything passed but I got a note on "other" criteria that said there is a leak before the catalyst. I guess the 02 sensor detects pressure or something? He said if it was after the cat it wouldnt have mattered.

 

This thing was cracked. Unsure if I did this while removing it. No other cracks or holes detected

 

 

Can I jbweld this just to smog it lol

 

It would be a weak band-aid at best. Do it once & do it right.

 

you're right. It's only $40 for the part anyway. Going to order it

 

You'll want to cut off the old flex pipe, slip the new one on with significant overlap. Then reinstall, and a few tack welds. Then remove it, weld it up, and reinstall.