Your car’s exhaust system does more than simply silence loud noises; it also
channels poisonous gas fumes away from its engine. Rough roads and corrosion
damage in mufflers and catalytic converters can create weak spots which ultimately
leak and eventually create holes or weak points that eventually leak.
Use a set of large pliers to gently squeeze suspicious areas of your exhaust system.
If any flexes or crumbles occur, that indicates an issue within.
Reduced Power and Acceleration
An exhaust leak forces your engine to work harder than necessary, leading to reduced power and acceleration as well as distorting air-to-fuel ratio, leading to reduced performance and economy. Furthermore, depending on its location, an exhaust leak can even force cars to bypass oxygen sensors that control proper fuel delivery.
Exhaust leaks can also increase noise and vibration, both of which are indicators that there may be something amiss with your vehicle. They may also expose sensitive components to hot exhaust fumes that overheat, overburden them and ultimately damage them – potentially costing more in repairs later down the line.
An efficient exhaust system safely directs harmful emissions away from your engine. A leak in this system prevents it from working at its full potential and hinders performance of all surrounding systems.
Poor Fuel Economy
Many drivers underestimate the significance of exhaust system in overall vehicle
performance. It transports toxic fumes produced by engines into a catalytic
converter for transformation into less harmful gasses before exiting through the
tailpipe.
The exhaust system plays an essential role in dispersing heat away from an engine.
If a leak develops near an exhaust manifold, however, its ability to draw off enough
heat may become compromised – creating extra heat which damages valves that
release exhaust gasses out of the engine and causes irreparable internal engine
damage that would cost far more to fix than simply an exhaust leak.
Leaks in your exhaust system can have devastating repercussions for fuel economy,
distorting the air-to-fuel ratio and forcing too much or too little fuel into combustion
processes. This will lead to spark plugs wearing down more quickly and engine
misfire.
Carbon Monoxide Leaks
Carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning can be deadly even at very small levels. Since CO
is odorless and tasteless, many won’t even be aware they have become sick until it is too late.
CO is most dangerous when it seeps into homes through gas appliances like stoves,
water heaters and fireplaces, or outdoor activities in closed garages. Highway
workers, toll booth attendants and warehouse employees may also regularly
encounter elevated levels of this gas.
If you or any member of your household experiences symptoms of carbon monoxide
poisoning–dizziness, weakness and headaches–immediately exit the vehicle and get
to fresh air, calling 911 or local emergency services immediately. Also make sure
any carbon monoxide detectors in your home are functioning correctly and not
covered with snow during winter.
Gas Pedal Vibrations
The exhaust system must quickly remove harmful fumes from your engine in a short
amount of time and under high temperatures, even minor leaks causing vibrations
that can be felt through gas pedal and steering wheel when driving – these vibrations become stronger as acceleration occurs.
Your car’s exhaust pipes and fittings are exposed to harsh road conditions, dirt,
water and snow accumulation as well as old shoes or boxes left abandoned on
America’s roadways – leaving them susceptible to corrosion and rust formation.
If your gas pedal rattling indicates an exhaust leak, this should be addressed
immediately by consulting with a car mechanic to inspect your entire exhaust
system.
Burning or Gas Smell
The exhaust system serves to deliver harmful gases away from the engine. If a hole
appears in its pipework, this may result in a burning or gas smell inside your vehicle – should this occur immediately, having it repaired is vitally important.
Leakage from exhaust systems also produces noise that can be both distracting and
loud enough to interfere with driving, making it hard for drivers to concentrate.
Furthermore, this noise could draw unwanted attention from law enforcement
officials.
Leaks in your exhaust system can create numerous issues for both your vehicle and
yourself, potentially harming both. Ignoring it could make matters worse and result
in costly repairs down the road. For any queries or assistance about your exhaust,
reach out today – we’re happy to assist!