I think I have a minor exhaust leak at the engine. I sometimes smell exhaust when the car is stopped, and I'm hearing that distinctive ticking sound typical of very small leaks at the manifold. I did get under the car to check it, and I felt a very minor breeze around where the manifold meets the engine.

I'm thinking of getting back under the car and just checking the torque on the fasteners at the manifold. I'm still covered by the warranty, but I can't get an appointment at a dealership in short order and I hate being gassed by pre-cat exhaust fumes while the car is stopped. The thing is, I'm worried about what might happen if I accidentally over-torque one of the nuts. Will the nut give first? That'd be a pain, but nowhere near as bad as a stud or the threads in the engine. Just want to make sure what I'm getting into before I take the plunge.

TIA!