Lexus Repair: Front pipe leading to catalytic convertor, lexus 400, catalytic convertor

Question
I just left Midas because my 1998 Lexus 400 V8 seemed to be a little noisy lately. It turns out the left side of the exhaust pipe (from the engine leading to the convertor) had holes in it.  This happened to the right side not long ago and they patched it by cutting out the leaking part and welding in a section.  This time they say they can't do it (same condition as the last one but new shop manager).  They want over $1,000 to replace the pipe which 'THEY DON'T HAVE AND MUST GET FROM LEXUS DEALER'. I normally take very good care of my cars and they last forever it seems.  But I just feel I'm getting ripped off on this one.  Can you suggest something or should I just bite the bullet and take this to my local Lexus dealer who will charge me a fortune I'm sure.  
Thank you in advance for taking my question.

Bill

Answer
If you live in an area like California, or New York. Pre-cat converter exhaust is considered apart of the emessions equipment & they're not allowed to touch it by state law.

You're probably leaking at a flex joint. They eventually break, it's just a fact of life of modern car ownership. You'll need to find another shop that will cut the pipes up & weld in another, or find a local performance oriented shop.
All OEM exhaust pipes are extravogantly expencive, regardless of whos they are.