I have a '94 4 cyl. 2.2 L Camry. It has an exhaust leak. As I look under the car I see the pipe that comes down from the exhaust manifold, then goes into this piece that looks brown and flexible. I don't know what this piece is exactly, but there is a dent in the pipe going into it from the manifold, creating a hole about an inch in diameter. While the car warms up in the cold, I see almost no smoke from the muffler, all of it comes out of the bottom of the car where this hole is. I don't think I can pass inspection like this since I believe its bypassing the cat. converter. I want to get this fixed cuz I also am worried about my safety since the leak is right below the cabin. About how much will it be to get this fixed? And where would you recommend I go?

Normally the shop will replace it no matter how good the other area is. The pipe is called A-pipe. May cost you a lot. If you can find a weld shop, you can just "Brazing" it. Fill the hole and it will never be a hole there.