Shake, Rattle & Smell: 7 Signs That Your Exhaust System Needs Repair
- By ADMIN
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- 01 Jul, 2017
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You keep up with your car maintenance, yet you've noticed that your vehicle has started to exhibit a few odd quirks lately. Vehicle exhaust systems do more than just reduce harmful emissions into the environment. They also affect your fuel efficiency, keep poisonous gases out of the car cabin and keep your car quiet.
The exhaust system begins in the engine of your car where the exhaust manifold and oxygen sensor are located and extends to the very end where you see your muffler. Age, exposure to salt, and short distance driving are a few common reasons for problems to start, and these warning signs signal that it is time to call for a repair.
Sudden Increase In Engine Roar
Loud noises are one of the most common symptoms of a problem in your exhaust system. Sometimes, this can be visibly diagnosed by checking for holes or corrosion on your car's muffler. When this is the case, you will notice the sound grows louder during acceleration when more fumes are being sent through your system.
A Rattling Sound Coming From the Exhaust System
A failing catalytic converter can generate a sound that is very similar to a shaking box of rocks. This sound usually occurs when the vehicle is idling or stopped in traffic. You might also hear a rattling sound if the heat shield surrounding your exhaust system components has come loose.
Reduced Fuel Efficiency
When you have to start filling up more often, it is a good idea to get your exhaust system checked. This is because your oxygen sensor may be failing, or it might be trying to compensate for a leak by increasing the fuel mixture. This type of problem may trigger a warning signal on your dash before it completely goes out.
Vibrations That Start In the Gas Pedal
Feeling a vibration in your gas pedal doesn't always mean you are on a bumpy road. Leaks in your exhaust system can generate vibrations in your gas pedal, steering wheel and even your seats. Typically, large leaks will create bigger vibrations, and feeling them means that fumes are being released in a harmful manner.
Smelling Fumes
The process of combustion creates dangerous fumes that you should never smell coming into your vehicle. When a problem occurs with any component in your exhaust system, it can lead to fumes entering your cabin. Treat this as an emergency by unrolling your windows, and immediately calling for an inspection and repairs.
Noticing Visible Damage
The majority of your exhaust system lies on the underside of your vehicle where it is exposed to salt, rocks and road debris that cause damage. Often, the problem is obvious, and you might see a crack in a component, rust on the tailpipe or a part dangling. Repairing these parts can reduce the wear on the other components.
Failing an Emissions Test
It is sometimes possible for your exhaust system to fail before you notice the symptoms. When this occurs, you may discover the issue at your vehicle inspection station when your car fails to pass the emissions test. Often, this is related to the oxygen sensor. Fortunately, prompt repair is usually all it takes to get your car legal to be on the road again.
On a brand new car, your exhaust system should last at least five years, but there are many things that can damage it before that time. Older cars should be inspected yearly for early signs of damage that require repairs. At Dualtone Muffler Brake & Alignment, we specialize in standard and performance exhaust system installation and repair so contact us today.
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