I Had this job done last year,they cut out the leaky flex pipe then weld in a new one but they never drop the exhaust.so they put some kinda paste on top of the flex pipe where they couldn't reach.now a year later that paste has cracked now the leak is coming from that same spot.if I were you I'd have them drop the whole pipe and weld it the proper way as they were telling you

 

So I had it done on Saturday, but I went to Meineke instead of the no name shop. They did it in 2 hrs for $220 (115 labor + 105 part)
They didn't remove the whole system. They said it is tricky, but a good welder can do it. So far it seems fine and if I hadn't forgotten my coupon I could have saved an addt'l $20.

 

Do you know what size the pipe is, I have to do mine and I have the same car ,but I know a welder who will do it on the side if I can get the piece.

 

Sorry, don't remember. I am not sure if I ever really knew.