So I just installed invidia n1 cat back on my 03 wrx on saturday. I've been noticing a strong burning smell. I noticed on saturday and then on sunday after a long drive it really smelled bad. Is this normal? and how long should I expect that? thanks.

 

A new exhaust will put off a smell but I don't recall a strong smell the 3 times I ran new exhaust components. Did you use a gasket sealer?

 

plastic bag?

 

hmm on my wrx i only smelled something like burning gas or strong gas comin out... still smell it its been awhile does anyone know?

 

Nope, did not use gasket sealer. That might have been a good idea now that I think about it. Thanks

 

I've never needed it in the past so you should be fine without it. I just thought a gasket sealer might make the odor a little more noticeable. If you don't have a CEL I'd wait a few days before I got worried.


03_Impreza_Al brings up a good point. You never know.

 

mine smelled wierd for about three days. as long as it goes away and you dont have leaks i wouldnt worry about it.

 

Are you running a catless TBE? If not it's probably an exhaust leak. Both of you guys might want to look for dark sooty spots on your flanges/gaskets.

 

Its normal for a couple hundred miles.. it will def go away within 2 weeks.

 

are you catless?