So I installed my X-Pipe with 200 cell cats about 500-600 miles ago. Love the sound. My question is this. Since the install, and a confirmed no leak install, I have noticed that with the windows down, the exhaust smell is rather strong. Is this normal?

 

An exhaust smell would typically come from a leak which you have ruled out or poor performing/non existent cats.

Are you getting any warning lights?

 

The smell of the raw exhaust is only present when the windows are down. There is no smell whatsoever when up. There are no warning lights at all.

 

Most likely, the cats are not as 'efficient' as the factory (less honeycomb=less restriction=better breathing=less burning=less efficient).

 

I'm just wondering if any of you out there with an x pipe can corroborate my findings as being normal.

 

Several people on here have x pipes on 997.1 series cars and I haven't heard much if any complaints about exhaust odor.

Do you notice the odor more when the car is first started vs. after it has warmed up? Better yet, does it go away after the car is up to temp? As an O2 sensor ages it sometimes lags in the voltage it sends to the computer. You could be getting a slightly rich mixture which the sport cats can't deal with.

 

It's doesn't seem to change whether or not it's cold or warmed up. As far as the O2 sensors. The car is an '07 with 7300 miles. So while I understand anything can fail, just doesn't seem likely. I'll put it in a lifer and have it checked. The sound is great. Just curious.

 

Wow! An '07 with 7,300 miles.

Also, check the prior threads. I thought I've read Cali X-pipes owners failing the State smog check. To me, a failure means the sniffer detected out-of-the-norm exhaust.

 

I'm in Arizona. But I know what your saying. I'll have my tech take a look at it. I'll have them run an emission test to see what's up.

 

I have a Cargraphic X-pipe installed on my 997.1 -- no exhaust smells here -- have had it installed for about 5000kms.

 

i have a fabspeed x-pipe cats and no smell whatsoever.