How does an exhaust work?
An exhaust system has the primary function of guiding fumes away from a controlled combustion section of an engine. The exhaust system on a car is carefully designed so that the fumes omitted from the engine can be safely transported away from passengers in the car.
The exhaust system is made up of a several parts, all of which could cause potential issues if damaged. Although you only see the tail pipe from the outside of the car, the exhaust system is a large system.
The exhaust ensures that fumes are transported from the engine all the way to the tailpipe at the back of the car. The gas flows down from the engine to the flange and onto the catalytic converter. It then travels on to the muffler and resonance chamber before going to the resonator and finally out through the tailpipe.
All of these parts have distinctive functions with piping connecting them carefully along the bottom of the car. Each section of the system has to be completely airtight and functioning properly to ensure the gases are released into the outside environment safely.
Because there are several components of the exhaust system and because it usually stretches the full length of the car, repair costs can vary.
Depending on the area, part itself and extent of the damage, you are likely to pay different prices. Some repairs may only consist of sealing a small leak whereas others may result in replacing entire pipes or elements. To get the most accurate quote for your vehicle, get prices from local mechanics through WCFMC.
How does the exhaust affect performance?
If there is a leak in the exhaust system, there is a chance that engine performance will be adversely affected.
This is due to the escape of pressure at the wrong point of the system.
Are Exhaust leaks dangerous?
Yes, it is essential that an exhaust system is not damaged as leakage could pose danger to those inside the vehicle. Hydrocarbons, carbon monoxide and nitrogen oxides could seep into a car if the exhaust is damaged. These gases are also extremely hot and toxic, and would cause serious damage if they were to meet a passenger.
The piping in an exhaust system must be heat resistant due to the high temperatures of these compounds. If the exhausts integrity is compromised, anything close to the damaged area will be exposed to potential harm.
If your DPF is also blocked or not functioning properly, soot and particulate will escape from the system and cause damage to the environment and people in the surrounding area.
Can an exhaust leak cause low oil pressure?
If there is an oil leak, there is only a very small chance that the problem is the exhaust system. This is due to the fact that engine oil doesn’t course through the exhaust like it does for other car parts such as the head gasket.
However, if there is an oil leak, it may eventually get into the combustion system and the result will be blue smoke coming from the exhaust. If this occurs in your car, have it inspected by a mechanic ASAP to avoid further damage or even danger.
Can an exhaust leak cause the check engine light to come on?
A warning light may come on but it is not likely to be the check engine light. This is because a problem with the exhaust will be detected specifically by oxygen sensors or the sensors in the DPF if your exhaust system is fitted with one; these are the signs you may notice if there is an issue.
Signs that your Exhaust needs repairing or replacing
Exhaust is loud
A common symptom for a damaged exhaust is a loud roaring noise coming from your vehicle. This noise indicates that you have a problem with the silencer part of the system. A common issue with silencers is corrosion by acidic moisture which is caused by a build-up of the damaging substance.
Exhaust is leaking
If a part of the system has cracked or a hole has appeared, you will be able to hear a hissing noise and a chugging sound which could mean there is a blockage in the system. If the exhaust is leaking, the issue needs to be addressed immediately as the fumes are dangerous.
Exhaust is popping
If you hear the exhaust popping or rattling beneath your car it could mean that your exhaust has become misaligned and if you can hear a loud metallic vibration it usually means that something is hitting the exhaust pipe. It could also mean a clamp, mounting or support bracket within the exhaust is loose.
Exhaust is loose
Hangers and brackets are essential for holding the system in place so if these parts become damaged there is a significant risk that the rest of the system will suffer as a result. If you are able to get underneath your car, it is always the best way to check these parts for signs of damage.
Exhaust is rusty
One of the most common issues associated with exhausts is rust build up, however this can often be a minor issue as some peeling of metal is not a huge issue.
If there is a build-up of rust on any part of the system, use a tool such as a screwdriver to see how strong the area feels, if the integrity is solid then the part won’t need replacing. Contrastingly, if the metal feels weak when some pressure is applied, its time you get the part removed and a new one installed by booking in for a replacement fitting.
Exhaust is smoking
Black Smoke from Exhaust
Black smoke coming from your exhaust means that your engine is burning more fuel than it should. This is often caused by a problem with your fuel injectors, air filter or fuel-pressure regulator. Alternatively, the fuel line could be clogged. Burning excessive fuel will have a noticeable effect on fuel economy meaning that you will be spending much more money on getting from A-B.
Blue Smoke from Exhaust
If your exhaust is pumping out blue smoke, oil will have leaked into the engine and been burned in the system. This happens when the valve guide seals or piston rings have worn out and allowed engine oil into the combustion chamber. Engine oil is only meant for the lubrication of parts which are in constant contact with each other.
If engine oil is leaking into the combustion system, you need to have the issue addressed and an oil change carried out as low engine oil levels are detrimental to your car.
White Smoke from Exhaust
If white smoke is coming from your exhaust, your car could be low on engine coolant from the result of a cracked or warped cylinder head, a cracked engine block or a head gasket failure from overheating.
If engine coolant gets anywhere near the combustion chamber, the liquid will be vaporised and converted into a white gas which is then pushed out through the tailpipe in the form of white smoke.
To find out further exactly why your exhaust is blowing smoke use our dedicated guide.
Catalytic Converter
The catalytic converter is the part of the exhaust system that converts the dangerous fumes produced by a car engine, into a safer gas which can be pushed out into the air. The catalytic converter is an expensive part of the system as it is a complex piece of machinery and repairing it can be complicated.
For the same reason, replacing a catalytic converter is expensive. If there is a small amount of rust on the catalytic converter this can be repaired relatively simply, and even a small hole can be fixed with some welding. However, you will have to go by your mechanics advice as once a hole is too big, it cannot be welded shut and a replacement may be necessary.
Exhaust Manifold
The exhaust manifold is the piping that takes the fumes from the catalytic converter and then out to the tailpipe. This part can often become loose and rattle as a result of the fittings breaking from extensive rusting. The part can also leak fumes if holes appear, though they can be welded shut if they aren't too large. The exhaust manifold should not be too expensive to repair if there is a small hole, but if you need a new exhaust manifold, the price may be quite high depending on the model of your car.
Lambda Sensor
The lambda sensor is an oxygen monitor located within the exhaust system. It is critical to keep track of oxygen levels within the exhaust as too much could cause an explosion if it reaches the engine. Getting a new lambda sensor is an inexpensive job and fitting it should not take too long, An oxygen sensor in the exhaust system is the same thing as a Lambda sensor.
Who installs and repairs exhaust systems?
Trained mechanics working mobile, in independent garages, fast fit chains and main dealerships can deliver exhaust repair and new exhaust installation. You can find the best local exhaust specialists by requesting quotes from WhoCanFixMyCar.
To find the best exhaust service available at a great price, follow these steps:
- Enter your car registration number.
- Give us a few details about your car and your requirements.
- We’ll send you a great selection of quotes from mechanics and garages in your area.
- You can then compare the quotes and read reviews from previous customers to find the best exhaust deal in your area, before booking in online.
