My '94 940 wagon just had its 100,000 mile service. The most reputable private mechanic I know in St. Louis did the service. All fluids, belts, filters, everything I could think of, everything that the book recommends.

Since then I've noticed what seemed to be a higher level of exhaust noise. Over the weekend I dragged myself under the car and confirmed, at the least, a leak at the joint between the downpipe and connector to the catalytic converter. This morning I dropped it off at the mechanic for an evaluation.

He is recommending replacing the entire exhaust, not including the catalytic converter. Downpipe, exhaust, muffler, everything. He says the system is rusted and that there are numerous leaks through the system and in his opinion it will be cheaper and better in the long run to replace the whole thing. His estimate is around $500 to do it all.

What do you all recommend? At 100,000 miles is it time to do this? Is this to be expected? Or should I seek out one of those old-time guys who will go in and fill the holes in the downpipe with weld and try to go with some cheaper method?

After thinking about it, I think I need more information, because actually $500 almost seems cheap, like these probably are not OEM parts. Or perhaps the price is parts only.

Your advice would be appreciated.

Markus
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'94 940, '92 240, 40 linear feet of vintage jazz, r'&'b, funk and soul, engaged in the so-called 'spiritual' side of things, too. Interested in bamboo and Japanese landscaping...