I cannot recall ever seeing any discussion of problems with the exhaust system of the Prius, whether the catalytic converter or the muffler. Historically cars that are driving short distances tend to collect water in the muffler and rust out. Is there any reason that the Toyota's hybrid technology is easier on the exhaust system? Just wondering. George
Most of the parts are stainless steel, for one thing... and have semi-flexible ball joints at the manifold and muffler to allow a little bending as the pipe shakes around. The Classics often have a problem with the vacuum-operated HCAC absorber valve sticking after getting gummed up with enough road salt, but it's relatively easy to fix. There is no such valve in the '04+ and a few other improvements were made, so yeah, the exhaust system should be quite reliable. I could wish that they had put in one more hangar right around the area in front of the fuel tank, though, since the whole system tends to be a bit saggy right there. . _H*
