What is an Exhaust Hanger? Replacement and FAQs

There’s no way to ensure your exhaust system lasts forever, especially if you’ve been driving your vehicle for years. One of the parts that can fall is the exhaust hanger, and it’ll leave the exhaust pipe dangling.

The worst part is that many people have driving habits that make their exhaust systems wear down even faster. For example, driving over bumps, traveling at high speeds, and disregarding a rattling exhaust pipe all put extra strain on the hanger.

But what exactly is an exhaust hanger, and what does it do?

What is an Exhaust Pipe Hanger?

Exhaust hangers are used to secure and fasten a vehicle’s exhaust pipe to its undercarriage, preventing it from hanging loose and getting dislocated. If the exhaust pipe gets dislodged and dangles, it can face the ground and scrape against the road when you drive.

Besides keeping the pipe in place, exhaust hangers also isolate the exhaust noise from the rest of the vehicle. They come in many different materials, including rubber and steel.

Rubber exhaust hangers are the most common type of hangers because they’re good at absorbing vibrations, giving way to a smoother, quieter driving experience. Meanwhile, steel exhaust hangers are sturdy and effective at keeping the exhaust pipe secure.

Where Can You Find the Exhaust Hanger?

Exhaust pipe hangers are typically found in the undercarriage, near the catalytic converter or the muffler, holding the exhaust pipe aloft.

How Long Do Exhaust Hangers Last?

Twenty five years ago, it was very unlikely that your vehicle’s exhaust pipe hanger would last the full lifetime of your vehicle. But over the past two decades, exhaust systems have improved to the point that you may drive 400,000 miles and never have an issue with any of your exhaust hangers.

The exhaust hanger typically lasts about as long as a vehicle’s exhaust system. And unless you drive over a lot of stumps and damage the exhaust, it  will typically last the life of the vehicle, with the exception of some flex joints on front wheel drive vehicles. This varies from vehicle to vehicle, depending on how well the exhaust system is taken care of.

It’s generally a good idea to replace your exhaust hanger as soon as you spot red flags. There are a few signs an exhaust hanger is due for a replacement, and the most obvious is when the exhaust pipe or muffler hangs lower than it should or when the exhaust system is bumping or rattling.

How to Replace Your Exhaust Hanger

Bear in mind that it’s always best to hire a professional to carry out repairs and replacements. Learning how to do maintenance and repairs yourself is good, but getting an expert to do the job for you is almost always guaranteed to fix your problem.

Here’s a quick guide that’ll give you an idea of what the replacement process involves:

What You’ll Need

Here’s a list of things you’ll need to replace your vehicle’s exhaust hanger.

• Car jacks
• Exhaust hanger removal tool (wrench or plier)
• Replacement exhaust hanger

What to Do

If you want to replace your exhaust hanger on your own, follow these steps carefully.

1. Park your vehicle in a flat, secure area like your garage.
2. Set up the car jacks to lift your vehicle, giving you easier access to the undercarriage.
3. Use your exhaust hanger removal tool (either a wrench or a pair of pliers) to remove the bolts or clamps securing the exhaust pipe.
4. Remove the old exhaust hanger and replace it with the new one.
5. Install the new exhaust hanger and secure the pipe with bolts and clamps.
6. Lower the vehicle and remove the car jacks.
7. Give your vehicle a test drive to confirm if the exhaust system works properly, and that the exhaust pipe no longer droops to the ground.

Alternate Exhaust Pipe Hanger Fixes

If you’re having trouble purchasing a new exhaust hanger, you can use other materials to secure your vehicle’s exhaust pipe. Budget-friendly options include any flexible metal objects, such as coat hangers and metal wires.

Metal Coat Hanger

You can unwind a metal coat hanger and use it to secure the exhaust pipe to the undercarriage. It’s important to use something made of metal rather than plastic because it’s more flexible and less likely to melt or become disfigured by the hot exhaust pipe. Keep in mind that this or any other kind of wire should only be a temporary fix.

Mechanics Wire

Mechanics wire is sturdy, flexible, and made of metal. This means it can be shaped to reliably support the exhaust pipe.

Steel Hose Band

Alternatively, you can use a steel hose band as an exhaust hanger. It makes for an effective clamp, securing the exhaust pipe while being easy to move, remove, and adjust. Steel hose bands are a little pricier than coat hangers and mechanics wire, but they’re just as effective, if not more.

How to Make Your Exhaust Hangers Last Longer

Here are several ways to ensure your vehicle’s exhaust hangers last as long as possible.

• Avoid driving over potholes and bumps unless you don’t have a choice.
• Ensure the hanger is properly affixed and securely attached to the undercarriage.
• Don’t drive too fast, especially on bumpy roads unless you’re in a big hurry.
• Keep your exhaust system clean to prevent dirt from damaging the hangers.