It’s a good rule of thumb to have your car, truck, or utility vehicle’s exhaust system inspected every one to two years. This allows us here at Brown Automotive Repair to make sure the exhaust system is not clogged or leaking. If it is, we can replace the exhaust system part that is the source of the problem. You will notice the following issues if your vehicle’s exhaust system has a leak or is clogged.
Power and Acceleration Loss
One of the first things that will happen is you will have engine power and acceleration loss. This is because a clogged exhaust system pushes the exhaust that would normally be released out of the tailpipe back into the combustion chamber. This can affect your engine’s performance, as can a leaking exhaust system that fills the engine with exhaust gases.
A Reduction in Fuel Economy
Unfortunately, the power and acceleration loss will reduce your automobile’s fuel economy. This is because the engine is burning through the fuel more quickly as it struggles to run. You will find that you won’t get as many miles per gallon when you fill your tank, and you will have to fill your tank more often. Fixing the exhaust system problem will restore your vehicle’s gas mileage.
A Ton of Engine Noise
If your engine is extremely loud and/or you hear hissing or tapping noises coming from it, your exhaust system is suffering from a damaged muffler or a cracked exhaust manifold, respectively. Unfortunately, if the muffler is not working as it should be, your engine will be loud enough that you may end up with a moving violation. People will hear you coming from blocks away.
Damaged or Hanging Tailpipe
You may be able to see exhaust system damage if your tailpipe is hanging too low from the underneath of your automobile. The tailpipe can also get holes in it or pit. It’s important to replace the tailpipe if it is damaged to ensure the exhaust flows out of it properly.
Engine Bay Burning Odors
Your engine may overheat constantly and you may smell burning plastic or rubber coming from it if the exhaust system is leaking. Specifically, a cracked exhaust manifold or manifold gasket releases hot exhaust into the engine that melts the neighboring parts.
Gasoline or Diesel Fuel Odors
Finally, you do not want to smell gasoline or diesel fuel when you are driving your automobile. If you do, pull over immediately and cut the engine. Continuing to drive while inhaling the gasoline or diesel fuel odors can subject you to carbon monoxide poisoning. Brown Automotive Repair is the best auto service shop in Birmingham, AL, so call us today if you believe your exhaust system is clogged or leaking.