Common Exhaust Problems
A car’s exhaust system plays many important roles in the safety and smooth running of your vehicle. Exhaust systems direct fumes from fuel combustion out of the car, reduce the noxious emissions and harmful particles produced, improve fuel consumption and dampen the sound levels created by your engine. When problems arise with the exhaust system, it is therefore of great importance that you identify and solve the issue. In this article we will look at some common car exhaust problems and how to recognise them.
Rust
The most likely problem that will occur with your exhaust system is the parts getting rusty. Due to the metals that exhausts are made from – especially the exhaust pipe and silencer – and the proximity to wet and gritty ground, rust is still a common problem in this area of the vehicle. Once it takes hold, rust can be an insidious problem leading to parts becoming damaged to the point of holes and cracks forming.
A quick visual inspection of the car exhaust and silencer will be able to tell you whether you have a rust problem. Additionally, if the rust has progressed quite far, you may notice a louder, roaring sound from your engine if it has affected the silencer or hissing sounds if holes have been eaten into your exhaust pipe. Rusted parts will need to be replaced.
Loose parts
Over time, it is not uncommon for parts of the exhaust system to become loose, either through rusting, wear and tear or due to unfortunate knocks from potholes or bumps in the road. Fortunately, most of the time a loose part can be remedied quickly and at minimal cost. However, if the loose part is internal, this can be somewhat harder to identify and rectify – replacement may be the only option.
Something which is quite minimal in severity for your car can still sound alarming. If you notice rattling sounds when driving, this is a typical sign something is loose and is in contact with parts it shouldn’t be. Similarly, this can also be a sign your exhaust pipes have become misaligned. Take your car to a garage for mending.
Blockages
Blockages to the exhaust system can cause a variety of problems which range in urgency. Blockages can have many different causes, from outside debris getting into the exhaust pipe, to soot and carbon build up in the catalytic converter. Minor blockages will often just be expelled from the car; more serious obstructions can have negative effects on your car’s functioning.
Signs of a blockage can vary and be hard to spot if it isn’t a major obstruction. Chugging sounds when driving can be an indication something is impeding the system. Furthermore, if the blockage is more severe, your car can feel sluggish, as if you’re driving in too high a gear, fuel usage can increase and revs can be limited also. If you notice a sulphur smell and the engine getting hotter than usual, these are likely signs your catalytic converter has a blockage and as a result, gases aren’t escaping through the system properly. In the case of a suspected blockage, you should take your car to a garage immediately.
Wear and tear
Wear and tear of exhaust system parts is inevitable; the system doesn’t have a limitless lifespan. Wear and tear can contribute, but is not limited to, all of the previously discussed exhaust problems. Further notable parts of the exhaust system which can be susceptible to wear and tear are the exhaust manifold and oxygen sensors.
Oxygen sensors provide measurements of oxygen in the system. This is required for assessing and, when necessary, adjusting air-fuel ratios for optimal fuel burning. If these sensors are wearing, the readings can become inaccurate and you would notice your fuel consumption becoming less efficient. Worn sensors will need to be replaced.
Exhaust manifold cracks and damage from wear and tear are a serious problem which should be fixed as soon as possible. This part transfers noxious gases away from the engine for treatment, and damage here could mean the gases can get into passenger areas. Hissing noises when driving can be a sign of damage. Any defects would be identified and dealt with properly at a service.
Should you suspect there is a problem with your exhaust, take your car for inspection by a professional, preferably one with proven expertise in exhaust systems. They will be able to identify and repair any problems for you before they become more serious to ensure your car runs well and can pass its next MOT.
Auto Exhausts & Tyres employ a highly qualified and skilled team who provide quality car servicing and repairs. Our expertise allows us to provide well-informed, reliable advice and carry out all our jobs safely and efficiently. For further information, or to book your car into our Lincoln garage, don’t hesitate to get in touch with our friendly team today.
