Thread: What happens if the pipe coming off from the exhaust manifold is cracked or broken?

There is a pipe coming out of the exhaust manifold, but is not really part of the exhaust manifold (it's made of a different metal, it seems like white metal or something). It's basically a tube that I assume leads to the rest of the exhaust system. Mine has a few large cracks at the beginning as it leaves the exhaust manifold (it's also hanging a good inch away from the exit of the manifold) and I'm wondering what the result of that is?
Is it noisier? Is it less environmentally friendly (because the exhaust isn't reaching the catalytic converter)? Is there anything else that results from this?
How much is this to fix?
Oh, and what is the official name for this tube?

yes, all you said plus loss of horse power.

RUN AWAY FROM YOUR CAR AND CALL THE POLICE!!!

It's part of the emissions system on your car, and does effect how well or clean they run. Only other result may be exhaust in passenger compartment from an exhaust leak under the hood.

Yes, it sounds like a tank.
Yes, it causes more air pollution.
Yes, you can get a ticket.

It will probably make your car noisier,but the fumes are what cause the most danger especially the ones that you can not smell,They can kill you and/or passers very very quickly.You could lapse into an unconscious state and that can cause you to lose control and causing a motor vehicle accident.

You might be breathing in the exhaust if any is escaping from it. It can kill you.

You need to replace this,If it is a seperate part you can smash it out and re-tap it(put new thread on) otherwise if the manifold is cracked, warped or damaged in any way you need to replace. costly but simple, if left performance and fuel economy will be poor.