draco

I had a look at my car's exhaust system a couple of months back and noticed that the main "muffler" (?) in the centre of the car (i.e. use driver's door as a reference) started getting a dark line running across the centre of it. I took it to an exhaust place who claim that the internals of the muffler were starting to break down. The car is a bit louder than I expect when accelerating and every touch of the accelerator (especially when cold) you can hear the exhaust. Is my centre muffler due for replacement? I will take a picture of it tomorrow when I get back from work.

draco

Apologies on the delay getting back with the pictures, but here they are. Looks like staining possibly from water or something. You will notice however it's quite obvious the dark pattern on the muffler itself. My car isn't as quiet as I expect it to be unless cruising at a set speed (apart from road noise). Does this look my exhaust is due for a change? The last picture of the bunch is a bit of a concern given what looks like a band really starting to develop. Looks like the catalytic convertor (I think) on the 2nd picture is just wearing.

kiwi

Might want to run it by the dealer and get them to take a look. i would bet that the exhaust shop might jsut be trying to upsell an exhaust system.

factory replacement for that will be in excess of 1000 bucks, aftermarket/exhaust shop will run you at least 500.

personally, until it started leaking i would leave it alone.

mandyfig

Whatever you have, looks normal to me. None of the discoloration show damage. They are normal. Unless you have streaks of black stuff (showing a a leak) I think you are ok.

Go to a muffler shop and have it checked.

RX330inFL

Looks normal. Keep in mind the temperatures involved with the exhaust system.

donmatt

The following is my two cents worth: Photo #1 The spot near the the tail pipe exit appears to be a small spot that could possibly be the start of an exhaust leak that is causing the increased noise.
Photo #2 With the apparent rust located at the exhaust pipe entrance to the cat converter the gasket (if one is installed) may be be leaking.
I would get a Lexus inspection of the system to confirm any problem prior to my allowing an aftermarket vendor to rework the exhaust system.
Good luck and please advise the forum of the results.

kickin8

iTrader: (1)

what year is your RX? Still under warranty ???

Nick318

Looks normal.. cold exhaust always permeates water after a run.

mandyfig

Now that Don has pointed this out. I agree with Photo 1 concern. And Photo 3 shows an aberration on the middle. Looks like something's going on on the interior.

Must get it checked.

Adamjeeps

Photo 1 looks almost like a leak (brake lines, gasoline?) based on those spots directly under the exhaust on the floor. Are you sure that is not a drip from something leaking from above?