The exhaust system is a critical part of your vehicle. It has multiple roles, but its main job is to carry harmful gases away from you as a driver and your passengers. The gases are converted into less harmful substances, before they are released.
In addition to this, it also helps improve your fuel consumption, performance of your engine and control noise. Without it your car would fail emission guidelines, and it becomes dangerous to drive.
How can you tell when your exhaust needs attention?
1. Engine Noise
Have you noticed the noises from your engine changing, or getting louder? Any new noise should be a red flag for the health of your car regardless, but it can often point to a problem with your exhaust.
There’s a silencer (normally towards the rear) which can deteriorate with normal wear-and-tear or become damaged. When this is compromised, you’ll hear more rumbling sounds from your engine.
A change in noise isn’t necessarily always due to a damaged exhaust. If you’ve noticed changes, it’s always best to call us and let us book you in for a check.
2. Reduced fuel efficiency
It’s never fun having to fill up your tank more than usual. If you’re noticing a full tank isn’t lasting as long as it normally does, this could indicate a big exhaust issue. Leaks or faults may mean that your engine is having to work harder than usual, using more fuel.
Similarly to engine noise, a whole range of issues could be responsible for this. However, your exhaust could be the answer, as a leaky exhaust will struggle to transport fumes. This will cause your engine to operate at a higher temperature, making it less efficient.
3. Visible rust or damage
Any type of vapour or water in your exhaust system will eventually have a corrosive effect. You may be more susceptible to this if you take shorter journeys, as it means the moisture in your exhaust can’t get hot enough to vaporise. Road salt during the colder months can also contribute towards this.
There are a few risks when it comes to driving with a rusty exhaust. The biggest risk is that harmful gases may enter your cabin – including carbon monoxide. These harmful gases may be hard to detect, but can be deadly.
There are other less serious, but still notable impacts of a rusty exhaust. These include reduced engine performance and a negative environmental impact.
If you’re noticing any changes to your exhaust, don’t leave it to chance. Give us a call on
01604 589179 to let our team take a look.
