Clutch Check or Replacement
Common Exhaust and Catalytic Converter Problems
The exhaust system is among those that shoulder most of the work in your vehicle. It directs toxic fumes away from the passenger cabin and the engine while also enhancing your vehicle’s performance. The converter also muffles the noise coming from the engine.
Any exhaust leak means that your engine has to work harder, experiences reduced fuel efficiency, and puts you at risk of inhaling hazardous fumes. If you suspect problems with the exhaust system, contact a reliable mechanic and schedule a service.
Common Signs of Trouble with Your Exhaust
- Reduced Fuel Efficiency – While lower fuel efficiency can mean a lot of things, a faulty exhaust may be why you’re spending more time than you should at the petrol station. An exhaust leak increases the fumes around the engine to have an insulating effect. The engine becomes hotter and increases fuel consumption. If you notice a drop in fuel efficiency, visit a certified mechanic to diagnose and repair any problems before the situation becomes critical.
- Decrease Power and Acceleration – Problems with the exhaust system directly lead to decreased power and acceleration. You won’t achieve the same power as before, and acceleration becomes an uphill task. If you continue to ignore the problem, acceleration and power reduce to abnormal levels.
- The smell of fuel Inside the Vehicle – You should not smell fuel inside the vehicle, and if you do, you should know that something is up with your vehicle’s exhaust system. This happens when one of the exhaust tubes or pipes wear out and start to leak, and the fumes from the fuel begin to escape from any place.
- Increasing Engine Noise – If you notice that the engine is louder than usual, it can mean that your exhaust needs repair. Keeping the engine noise down is one of the main functions of the exhaust. A leak will cause uncomfortable rumblings. A faulty exhaust manifold gasket will cause sounds such as tapping and hissing, which become loud during acceleration or cold start. Some of the most likely places for exhaust leaks include joints along the system and the exhaust manifold. A leak in the manifold can significantly increase the engine’s volume and possibly lead to harmful fumes in the vehicle. This puts you at possible risk of poisoning.
- Burning Smell From the Engine Bay – A gasket failure and the resulting leak near any plastic parts under the hood will cause these parts to burn. The smell is similar to that of a burning engine. It can lead to a bit of smoke, as well. If you begin to smell some burning and you see some smoke, get the vehicle checked.
When Do I Change the Exhaust or Parts of it?
Some of the wear defects that call for the replacement of the exhaust system include pipe leaks, leading to dangerous gases finding their way into the car. Distorted piping and muffler can affect the structural integrity and performance of the exhaust system components, which is another reason for replacement.
On the other hand, broken or cracked mounting brackets can cause the exhaust system’s key components to come loose and sometimes fall off. If this happens, the replacement of the parts is necessary.
When is it OK to Weld?
Welding the exhaust is possible but also a likely hazardous affair. Welding some metals such as the galvanized ones releases toxic fumes, which could be devastating to your health. Other exhausts are stainless steel, and a proper stainless steel filler is critical before welding.
You also need a heat shield to protect the other parts of the exhaust system. If you cannot do it safely and correctly, it’s always best to take it to a professional welder.
Exhaust Related Faults that Would Cause a Failed NCT or DOE
Among the various exhaust reasons that will cause your car to fail the emissions test include holes on the exhaust. Problems with the catalytic converter, especially the oxygen sensor, can lead to a failed National Car Test
Catalytic Converters
Restricted or clogged catalytic converters can cause your engine’s performance to be sluggish and increase the emissions out of the tailpipe. But what is it?
The catalytic converters are pollution-reducing units whose main job is to convert the toxic chemicals in vehicle exhausts into harmless steam. However, they have lately been attractive to thieves.
The number of catalytic converters theft has increased significantly in recent years. Criminal gangs can steal the catalytic converter in less than 3 minutes. But why the increased theft of this essential vehicle component, and not any other? Recently, some of the precious metals such as palladium and rhodium have skyrocketed, which is one factor leading to increased crime.
Catalytic Converters Theft and Anti-theft Solutions
There are a handful of things that you can do to prevent the theft of catalytic converters. For example, make it distinctive by marking it with a serial number and place a protective covering over it. You can also park in a way that nobody would have access underneath.
Some companies such as Toyota have developed a device they call ‘Catloc’ to make it harder to detach the catalytic converter. Some models, such as the Honda Accord and Jazz, have catalytic converter anti-theft features, and others install it within the engine bay.
Contact Us for Exhaust System Repair or Cat Anti-Theft systems
If you start experiencing some of the above-mentioned exhaust problems, contact Mechanic24 right away. Our certified mechanics can fix any exhaust system issue on your vehicle. Contact us today!
