There is a sensor just past the flex, that's why I don't think a universal flex pipe will work. If you cut the pipe between the flex joint and sensor there will only be about 1/2" to clamp to. I doubt it would hold.

 

Based on schematic for the car, they are mistaken. The catalytic converter is attached to or butted up to the exhaust manifold.

 

So the picture above is for the 2002? I'll call the dealer tomorrow to get the code. Hopefully they remember what it was. I did pay $52 for the diagnostics. They are on drugs if they think I'm going to pay them $1456 to repair this. I just bought the car used from them a couple of months ago with extended warranty but of course it doesn't cover this.

Thanks for all the help guys.

 

Yes, the schematic is for the tail pipe and muffler assembly on a 2002 Elantra (XD model) from the HMA service site at http://www.hmaservice.com/. I double checked to make sure I grabbed the right graphic. Also, here is a TSB describing a problem with cracked manifolds on these cars (just in case you find out that the car has that problem but the TSB also shows a picture of the manifold/catalytic converter assmebly):

http://www.hmaservice.com/files/331/...5-01-001-1.pdf

It is more important that the parts you buy match those on the car if they vary from what is shown on the schematic.

Also, the car has a Federal Emmissions Warranty that is good for either 75 or 80,000 miles. It doesn't matter if you are not the original owner.

 

Thanks again. With all the problems I've been hearing about these I might be better off buying the OBX stanless header and front pipe. It's a direct bolt on and would eliminate any future problems with the flex pipe and manifold. We no longer have state inspections here. Probably even get a little better gas mileage without the cat.

 

All of the distributors I've talked to show a picture of the front flex pipe with a catalytic converter at the rear. I'm going to pull it up on ramps today and check for sure.