Even if many drivers might take it for granted, the exhaust system plays a huge role in the overall health and performance of your car. What do we mean by exhaust system? Well, it’s a complex network of interconnected parts, which also includes the exhaust manifold, oxygen sensors, catalytic converter, tailpipe, muffler, and in some cases, a resonator.
Every part plays a huge role. They all operate together quite harmoniously, in order to manage the exhaust gases. When any of those parts seem to malfunction, it also compromises the entire system. Here’s what you need to know about this!
What does the exhaust system do?
When your car’s engine starts igniting the fuel-air mixture inside the combustion chamber, it also creates a very powerful explosion that propels your vehicle forward. But, this process could also produce a mix of harmful gases that are quite dangerous if inhaled for way too long.
This is exactly where the exhaust system comes into play. As the engine pumps out such gases, the exhaust also manifold collects them from each and every cylinder and directs them into a single pipe. From there onward, the gases flow through the catalytic converter, which has its own special catalysts that enhance the conversion of harmful emissions into less toxic substances.
Next, the gases pass directly through the resonator, which helps reduce engine noise and vibrations. Ultimately, the gases enter the muffler, where they are dispersed and expelled through the tailpipe.
The entire exhaust system helps keep you safe by slowly redirecting those gases away from the passenger cabin. Moreover, it reduces engine noises and controls emissions that can harm the environment.
In other words, it’s very important to keep an eye (ear, and nose) out for any signs of exhaust system problems. If your exhaust system has a leak or any other faulty components, you certainly don’t want to ignore it.
Not only it can damage your own health, but a correctly working exhaust system is very important for the sake of your vehicle’s performance. Neglecting much-needed repairs could seriously lead to expensive engine damage, but also performance issues and a drop in fuel efficiency.
Poor fuel efficiency
If you somehow find yourself constantly needing to refuel more than usual, you might deal with an exhaust leak. Exhaust leaks can cause the oxygen sensor to produce a certain amount of inaccurate reading, which ultimately leads to the engine consuming more fuel than needed, and also a decrease in your mileage.
What’s even more important than that is that an exhaust leak means that harmful gases aren’t correctly expelled from your car’s exhaust system. This might cause higher engine temperatures, which can also lead to higher fuel consumption.
In some instances, the exhaust gases could easily infiltrate the cabin, so in case you notice a decline in your gas mileage without any obvious cause, it’s very important to have your vehicle inspected as soon as you can.
Excessive vibration
If you notice any unusual or excessive vibrations on the steering wheel, gas pedal, or even seat, it’s probably due to a longstanding problem with your exhaust system. In most cases, the culprit is a rusty exhaust pipe, something that’s quite commonly seen in vehicles that are generally used for short trips.
When you take these short trips, the muffler and tailpipe don’t get hot enough to fully evaporate the moisture that gathers in the system. The condensation might sit in the system and eventually produce corrosion.
Another very common reason for excessive vibrations is exhaust leaks. In either of these cases, it’s very important to have your system inspected and repaired as rapid as you can, to avoid more expensive repairs or safety issues.
Engine noise
There are many potential causes of engine noise. However, one common culprit is often a leak in the exhaust system. If you happen to hear a loud rumbling sound from the engine that rises and falls with your vehicle’s RPMs, this might be a clear indication of an exhaust leak, that’s likely in the exhaust manifold or at one of the joints along the exhaust system.
Once again, it’s very important to address the exhaust leaks promptly and prevent health risks to you and your passengers.
Rattling noises
Any unusual noises that might come from your vehicle are definitely something to be concerned about. If, for instance, you hear a constant rattling sound close to the rear of your vehicle, it’s a serious indication of an issue.
You might deal with a loose or faulty catalytic converter or even a loose exhaust pipe. If any of those parts is loose, then it might present a serious safety concern. The last thing you want is to have one of these to come off while you are driving. By addressing the issue swiftly, you might ensure your safety and potentially avoid more costly repairs down the road.
Hissing or popping noises
Another kind of noise that could point towards exhaust issues is a hissing or even a popping noise whiles the engine is still running. These sounds can point to a blockage in the exhaust system, which can also cause abnormally high back pressure.
If you hear hissing or popping noises, it’s very important to pay attention to any other signs of trouble, like discolored burned spark plug wires or boots and even burned paint close to the exhaust ports on the cylinder head.
Burning smells
A burning smell is definitely a bad sign when it comes to your vehicle. Even though this might be due to a wide number of issues, such as electrical problems, worn brake pads, or even an overheated AC compressor, it can also be due to a failed gasket.
When a gasket in the exhaust system fails and starts leaking, the heat that is then generated by the escaping gas can also cause nearby components to burn, especially if the failed gasket is close to the engine wiring.
As a result, you might notice a burning smell in the cabin. If the leak is that serious, you can also notice smoke. Whether or not you do notice smoke, it’s recommended to turn off your engine and exit the car while it cools down.
Gas smells
Another clue that might indicate an issue is a specific odor. This could show an exhaust system issue. When one of these exhaust pipes is damaged and develops a leak, gas fumes, along with any other exhaust gases, will automatically escape from the opening.
These noxious fumes can easily make their way inside the cabin, where they can be instantly breathed in by you and your passengers. And because of these safety hazards, gas smells shouldn’t be ignored. That’s why it’s important to schedule an appointment to have these issues addressed right away.
Performance issues
When there’s an issue with the exhaust system, you will probably notice an impact on your vehicle’s performance. One of the most common culprits when it comes to performance issues relates to a problem with the catalytic convert, which can cause multiple difficulties during startup and a higher decrease in accelerating power.
Exhaust leaks can also contribute to performance issues because they disrupt the proper flow of exhaust gas, which also affects the engine’s overall efficiency and performance.
If you found this article useful, we also recommend checking: 14 Rules for A Proper Parking Lot Etiquette
