Symptoms
- Scraping sound over bumps, dips, or speed bumps
- Visible sagging or hanging pipe underneath
- Sparks visible at night if metal is dragging on pavement
- Loud exhaust noise if the sagging caused a leak or disconnection
Likely causes
- CommonBroken or rotted rubber exhaust hangerThese rubber mounts dry out, crack, and eventually tear, dropping that section of pipe.
- CommonRusted-through hanger bracketThe metal bracket the hanger attaches to can rust away entirely.
- PossibleImpact damage from road debris or a curbA hard hit can bend a bracket or knock a hanger loose.
- PossibleDisconnected pipe jointA joint clamp can loosen or fail, letting a section drop.
What to do
- If it's dragging or scraping the road, pull over safely and check underneath before continuing.
- Temporarily secure the pipe with wire, a coat hanger, or a zip tie to a solid part of the frame, well clear of hot components, just to get it to a shop.
- Do not drive fast or far with a temporary fix, since it isn't a real repair.
- Have a shop replace the broken hanger or bracket, which is usually an inexpensive, quick fix.
- Check nearby joints and gaskets for a leak that may have developed from the sagging.
- Have any related exhaust leak repaired at the same time to avoid a second trip.
Tools and parts
- Wire or zip ties (temporary fix)
- Gloves
Exhaust hangerSearch: “exhaust rubber hanger for [year make model]”
When to call a pro
This is a quick, inexpensive fix at most muffler shops; get it done promptly since a dragging pipe risks further damage.
Safety
Use caution
A dragging exhaust pipe can throw sparks, get caught on something in the road, or fall off entirely; secure it temporarily and drive carefully and slowly to a repair shop.