How do you know if your exhaust system is bad?
Protecting Your Exhaust System: The Basics
How do you know if your exhaust system is bad? An equally important question is, what do you do when you know?
Your Exhaust System
The exhaust system is a key piece of vehicle safety. It prevents life-threatening fumes from getting inside the cabin. The system consists of critical sensors, pipes, and components deployed to route high-temp, toxic gases away from the engine.
Signs That Something's Wrong
The exhaust system needs to be checked promptly if any of the following issues arise.
- Hissing or rattling noises
- Reduced power and/or acceleration
- Decreased fuel efficiency
- Rotting, pungent smells in the cabin
- Vibrations in floorboards
- Issues with the gas pedal
- Check engine light comes up
A crucial cog in your exhaust system is the muffler. Any of the above issues can be traced to that component. If your muffler comes loose (or falls off), you have an obvious problem. But if the muffler shows holes, rust, or corrosion, you're well on your way to serious engine problems.
How Does It Happen
Though robust, an exhaust system has a broad range of Kryptonites. Corrosion leads to rust. This can be prompted by road salt or moisture. Jarring impacts may lead to damage. Every driver is leery of debris and potholes. Aging components can become fatigued. Worn hangers and gaskets provoke sagging and leaks. Short drives prevent moisture evaporation. That increases the possibility of rust.
What to Do
Should you encounter any issues with the exhaust system, wait for the car to cool before performing a visual inspection. Grab a flashlight and inspect for holes, rust, damaged hangers, loose pipes, and other potential issues. You can:
- Check the tailpipe for blockages.
- Spray soapy water on pipes. If there are bubbles, they likely leak.
- Perform an engine vacuum test. Readings of 17–22 suggest a restriction.
How do you know if your exhaust system is bad?
Get it checked. Even a seemingly functional system should be inspected every 2–3 years.
Question about how do you know if your exhaust system is bad? Contact our ASE-certified technicians at Cannon Auto Repair for more information about the components of the exhaust system, including the muffler, and to schedule an appointment. Our auto shop proudly serves residents in the community of Cannon Falls, MN, and the surrounding areas.
About the Author
Protecting Your Exhaust System: The Basics
How do you know if your exhaust system is bad? An equally important question is, what do you do when you know?
Your Exhaust System
The exhaust system is a key piece of vehicle safety. It prevents life-threatening fumes from getting inside the cabin. The system consists of critical sensors, pipes, and components deployed to route high-temp, toxic gases away from the engine.
Signs That Something's Wrong
The exhaust system needs to be checked promptly if any of the following issues arise.
- Hissing or rattling noises
- Reduced power and/or acceleration
- Decreased fuel efficiency
- Rotting, pungent smells in the cabin
- Vibrations in floorboards
- Issues with the gas pedal
- Check engine light comes up
A crucial cog in your exhaust system is the muffler. Any of the above issues can be traced to that component. If your muffler comes loose (or falls off), you have an obvious problem. But if the muffler shows holes, rust, or corrosion, you're well on your way to serious engine problems.
How Does It Happen
Though robust, an exhaust system has a broad range of Kryptonites. Corrosion leads to rust. This can be prompted by road salt or moisture. Jarring impacts may lead to damage. Every driver is leery of debris and potholes. Aging components can become fatigued. Worn hangers and gaskets provoke sagging and leaks. Short drives prevent moisture evaporation. That increases the possibility of rust.
What to Do
Should you encounter any issues with the exhaust system, wait for the car to cool before performing a visual inspection. Grab a flashlight and inspect for holes, rust, damaged hangers, loose pipes, and other potential issues. You can:
- Check the tailpipe for blockages.
- Spray soapy water on pipes. If there are bubbles, they likely leak.
- Perform an engine vacuum test. Readings of 17–22 suggest a restriction.
How do you know if your exhaust system is bad?
Get it checked. Even a seemingly functional system should be inspected every 2–3 years.
Question about how do you know if your exhaust system is bad? Contact our ASE-certified technicians at Cannon Auto Repair for more information about the components of the exhaust system, including the muffler, and to schedule an appointment. Our auto shop proudly serves residents in the community of Cannon Falls, MN, and the surrounding areas.
About the Author
