Exhausted leak, most likely the flex pipe. Replacement options/ aftermarket options?

 

Please keep a cat on it. But zzperformance has nice option.
I actually have a zzp shorty manifold for sale right now. Would go nicely with one of their 2.5 in catted down pipes.
depending on what year you have, I might have stock option for sale cheap as well.

 

You should likely be able to source just a flex pipe, cut out the old and weld in the new

 

I have a 2004 Saturn ion, 2.2. Why do you recommend leaving the cat. Sound like crap otherwise?

 

Yes. Sounds like a weed eater with a sworn of bees tacked to the guard.
I have a stock header and down pipe I could sell and I have the zzp manifold.