Since tne muffler is so expensive for 2001 V70 can I replace the muffler with a straight pipe? That is the rear one.

 

No one want to offer suggestions? I don't want to spend $600! Or have to listen to the rattle it makes at idle! Fred H

 

it shouldn't cost you $600 for the rear muffler section after the cat, and yes you can even buy a straight pipe (search for Elevate parts as an example). If its just a rattle fix vs a new sound you want, I suspect you may have a broken hanger which can be replaced for about $50. For replacement parts try FCP Euro, Eeuroparts, Autohaus AZ...

 

I did a straight pipe for the middle muffler. Mine was rusted out. I don't know what it sounded like OEM, but I can tell you that it sounds very good now, not loud at all. You can buy an OEM-style rear muffler for less than $300 online. Should only be $60 max for labor at a local shop.

An alternative is to put in a new muffler in the middle and remove the rear muffler and put in a straight pipe. A shop should be able to do that for less than $180.