First post I've done, if it's not allowed please delete. I have a 2008 Nissan Versa Hatchback 1.8l- 6 speed manual transmission with 138,000kms. I replaced my muffler 2 weeks ago as it rotted off and costed me $380 with taxes. This week my Versa was loud again and me and my mechanic found that because of pressure build up mixed with road salt a hole blew in my exhaust spherical joint/ flange. The repair is going to be close to $170 with tax but my mechanic is not guaranteeing that nothing else will blow. When looking at the exhaust system I noticed that the center pipe, which is connected to my resonator is staring to split in half, and says my exhaust manifold gasket may be leaking. My mechanic also noticed a lot of heat where the flange is which he says could be a sign my catalytic converter is clogging up. He says if both the center pipe with the resonator and catalytic converter both go it will be close to $1100 to replace and fix.
A friend if mine says if either one goes I should just straight pipe it as where I live they are removing emission tests
The only thing I'm iffy about is if that is, correct me if I'm wrong, but I believe there is an O2 sensor before and after the cat/resonator. If that is the case what is a way to get around that without throwing a code or am I better off properly fixing the exhaust? And at what point should I just give up on the car? I've already put in about $1250 on this car not including extra set of tires and rims, bought car at $5000 all in 2 years ago.Thanks for your input!
