2014 Jeep Cherokee owner report of exhaust noise. Our courtesy inspection found that the exhaust flex pipe was broken and leaking. Our Jeep technician recommended an exhaust front pipe with flex pipe replacement.
Our service advisor sent the owner a digital inspection report including photos of the broken flex pipe and a detailed repair estimate. The customer asked a few questions, then approved the repair, and we got to work.
Problem
2014 Jeep Cherokee exhaust flex pipes are a weak point in the exhaust system. The flex joint must endure extreme heat, vibration, flexing, and corrosion of winter anti-icing chemicals. On top of that, exhaust flex joints have to remain air-tight so that poisonous exhaust gases don't leak into the passenger compartment. No matter how well designed and built exhaust flex joints don't last long.
Diagnosis
In most cases, a simple under-vehicle visual inspection will find any problems with the exhaust flex pipe. Our courtesy inspection found that the front exhaust flex pipe was broken and leaking. The exhaust pipe leak was confirmed by placing a rag over the tailpipe with the engine running. A positive pressure was felt and a helper listened and felt for leaks along the length of the exhaust system. The exhaust leak at the flex joint started to whistle with the pressure created in the system by the restricted outlet. The flex joint exhaust leak also displayed dark soot around the leak. The condition of the motor mounts was also checked and found to be good.
Cause
Jeep Cherokee exhaust flex pipes fail from corrosion, rusting, vibration, physical damage from driving on rough roads, or worn-out motor mounts which allow the engine to move excessively and place stress on the flex joint that breaks them apart. Harsh winter road conditions also contribute to accelerated flex joint rusting.
Repair
2014 Jeep Cherokee Exhaust System Repair - Flex Pipe replacement
Our Jeep technician removed the old exhaust pipe, including the failed flex, cleaned the catalytic converter outlet pipe flange and the tailpipe, which will be reused, and then installed the new exhaust pipe with flex joint, flange gasket, flange bolts, and exhaust pipe clamp.
After the exhaust repair was completed, a quality control check was made of the exhaust repair, and an exhaust pressure test was performed to make sure the exhaust system was no longer leaking.
The vehicle owner was contacted and informed that their Jeep was ready to be picked up.
Cost
2014 Jeep Cherokee exhaust pipe replacement cost will differ depending if the engine is a 4-cylinder, a V-6, or a v-8. The V-6 and V-8 engines have an exhaust pipe with two flex joints and has a higher cost, requires two new flange gaskets, and has additional labor costs to install.
How much does it cost to replace a 2014 Jeep Cherokee exhaust pipe?
How much does a 2014 Jeep Cherokee exhaust pipe replacement cost?
The national average for 2014 Jeep Cherokee exhaust pipe replacement price is reported to be between $500 and $2,000 including a new exhaust pipe with flex joints, flange gaskets, and clamp.
The price varies depending on the location of the repair shop within the country, vehicle year, make, model, options, and the quality of the replacement exhaust pipe. Diagnosis of the problem, additional parts required to complete the problem, shop supplies, environmental and disposal fees, and taxes are not included.
Tips
There isn't much a 2014 Jeep Cherokee owner can do to prevent an exhaust flex pipe failure. Exhaust system parts are a wearable part that has a limited life and will need replacement during the life of the vehicle.
We recommend regular inspections of the engine mounts and flex joint condition. The flex joint can be replaced separately if the exhaust pipes are in good condition and can be welded.
FAQ
What are the symptoms of a bad exhaust flex pipe?
The most common symptom of a bad exhaust flex pipe is a loud exhaust noise.
Can a Jeep Cherokee exhaust flex pipe be repaired?
If the exhaust pipes are in good condition a new exhaust flex joint can be welded to the existing exhaust pipes. However, in most cases, by the time the flex joint fails, the exhaust pipes are rusted so badly they can't be welded.
Can you drive with a broken exhaust flex pipe?
It is not advisable to drive with a broken or leaking exhaust flex pipe. The exhaust leak can cause a fire or the exhaust fumes can be a safety hazard for vehicle passengers.
How do you fix a leaking exhaust flex pipe?
The only safe and durable way to repair a leaking exhaust flex pipe is to replace it with a new exhaust flex joint. In some cases the flex joint can be replaced separately, in most cases a complete exhaust pipe replacement with new flex joint is the best value for a long-term repair.
Jeep Repair Shop in Ann Arbor, MI
Contact Abbott Street Auto Service for all Jeep service and repair in the Ann Arbor, Michigan area. Our Jeep technicians have the skill and experience to diagnose and repair your Jeep Cherokee problems correctly. We are Jeep service specialists.
You can trust your Jeep service to Abbott Street Auto Service. Located in Ann Arbor, MI, Abbott Street Auto Service also serves the surrounding areas, including Pittsfield, MI; Ypsilanti, MI; Saline, MI; and Dexter, MI.