PS.
I dont work for nor have any interest in selling their products, I just know I have had good luck with them.
Cheers,
Dave

If the noise is where the front and rear sections connect, check the clamp first. The bolts get very rusty and can break, especially when a lot of force is being used to remove the O2 sensors. Also check the rubber hangers at the rear muffler, a broken one can move the entire exhaust down so the angle at the join can let out exhaust.

When replacing a muffler on a 1995, long time ago, I had difficulty shoving the rear pipe into the end of the down pipe. I needed help to push the muffler forward while I clamped it down.

So, take a good look at the join. Buying a clamp and bolts from a dealer will not break the bank. But you will need extra hands to install it properly.

I suspect that your mechanic is talking about the joint between the front section of the exhaust and the rear section. No, he should not have referred to this connection as a "ball joint", but I could kind of see what he meant.

The joint itself is not like a male-female connection.
It is more like a flared joint.
The problem is that the flare itself rusts away. Usually on the front section if I recall correctly.

So you can cut that piece out, but that means that you'll also have to cut off the part of the flange section that is part of the rear pipe. And then use a piece of pipe to mate the front to the rear. Even though the rear section may be stainless steel, that flare still rusts out. I don't know why.

As for the prices he's quoting you, I agree that 2K is high. But I remember looking up the parts price for a front (which included the cat and flex pipe as one piece) + rear section and it was upwards of $600 I think. And that was aftermarket prices.
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"Differences of opinions should be tolerated, but not if they're too different" - Sharon Craig

Don't just walk away, run away from that mechanic! There is no ball joint near the exhaust. The ball joints are part of the front suspension. His prices are outrageous! If the exhaust is leaking near the front it is most likely the flex pipe or the cat. Do you have somebody who can help you find the source of the leak?

If your exhaust is actually leaking, you might consider getting a used rear muffler or catalytic converter. Erie Vovo is a reputable used Volvo parts dealer. Then find somebody to install the part(s). The rear muffler is stainless steel so they last pretty much forever...

Hi,
I would be very careful about what that fellow tells you ,$2000.00 is way way too much unless it's gold plated & guaranteed for ever & ever.
Check out IPD , their 3" Cat back system is less than $1000.00 and installation ( if you cant or don't want to do it yourself) can not possibly be $1000.00.

Good luck,

Dave