Top Signs Your Exhaust System Needs Attention

The Importance of a Functioning Exhaust System

Now, you may not know this, but every car’s engine undergoes a process known as combustion, by which several gasses are produced. While some of these gasses are harmless, others are very harmful and, hence, need to be regulated—this is where the exhaust system comes in.

The converter catalyst, a component of the exhaust system, converts harmful gasses into less harmful gasses and carefully guides them away from the engine. Then, it leads this gas outside your vehicle (in the form of a light fume of smoke).

This process purifies the air surrounding the car and engine. It also improves fuel efficiency because eliminating these gasses helps the engine operate smoothly without overworking itself.
However, if the exhaust system is faulty, the gasses remain in the engine, producing more significant problems such as overheating.

What are the Signs of a Faulty Exhaust

• Strange Noises (Rumbles and Rattles):
  We have all heard distant thunder or the banging of marbles in a metal can. When your car makes these noises, they are called rumbling and rattling—clear signals that your exhaust system needs attention.
  Rumbles and rattles are often caused by a problem with your exhaust system, such as a damaged catalytic converter, pipes, or heat shield. While these sounds may seem minor, ignoring them may lead to more complex problems and expensive repairs in the future.
  So, if you hear any of these sounds, don’t mistake them as typical sounds or attempt to figure out the situation alone; instead, get professional assistance.
• Reduced Fuel Efficiency:
  Fuel efficiency also drops when the exhaust system fails.
  When harmful gasses are not removed from the engine, it begins to overwork and overheat, using more fuel than necessary. Signs of reduced fuel efficiency include more frequent trips to the gas station, black smoke emission, or if the check engine light comes on.
  When you see these warning signs, contact a professional for immediate vehicle inspection.
• Unusual Smells:
  Unusual odors are other signs of malfunctioning in the exhaust system. These odors are caused by a leak in the exhaust system. You may notice a strong gasoline odor, a sulfuric (rotten egg) odor, or an acidic odor, which could be caused by a leaking converter catalyst or fuel escape.
  When the exhaust system leaks, harmful chemicals such as carbon monoxide are released into the atmosphere. They are incredibly harmful to both passengers and the environment. But that’s not all. An exhaust leak also decreases the engine’s performance.
  In general, your car’s exhaust system is an easy-to-maintain system that gives you peace of mind. So, if these signs come up, don’t delay. Take it straight for repairs to void further complications like complete engine damage.