Inspect all the hangers to see if the exhaust system is properly supported. A broken hanger causes the exhaust pipes to flex and break. Next, inspect the muffler and resonator. Poke the parts with a screwdriver to see if they are solid. Small rust holes usually start to form at the bottom and ends of the mufflers close to where the exhaust pipes enter.
Many mufflers have a small hole at the lowest end to drain any water out of the muffler.
The water is a by-product of the combustion process and is normal, but it is also the reason the exhaust system rusts from the inside first. Any exhaust parts with rust holes in them should be replaced. Odourless and poisonous carbon monoxide gas can leak from the rust holes into the passenger compartment. Tap on the muffler a, resonator, and converter gently with a rubber hammer or block of wood. Any rattles heard from inside these parts indicate an internal failure hat could lower vehicle performance by blocking the exhaust flow.