Your vehicle’s exhaust system is made up of more than the muffler and tail pipe. It’s actually a complex system of chambers and pipes that begin at the car engine and end with the tail pipe. The main function of the exhaust system is to control emissions. Without the exhaust system, you and your passengers would be at an increased risk from the harmful gases generated in the combustion process. The components of the exhaust system are also responsible for protecting the environment, quieting engine noise and making your car run efficiently. In this blog post, I’m going to give you additional background information on how the exhaust system operates. I’ll also talk about some of the signs that point to you needing an exhaust system repair.
When a vehicle’s exhaust system isn’t functioning properly, noxious fumes can get into the passenger compartment of your vehicle. These fumes pose a serious hazard to you and anyone else in the vehicle. Carbon monoxide is odorless and can cause symptoms of headaches, dizziness, tiredness, flu-like symptoms, nausea and even loss of consciousness. A malfunctioning exhaust system will also emit more pollution into the environment. It’s important to know what the five primary components of the exhaust system are and what they do:
- Exhaust Manifold – The exhaust manifold is attached to the engine at the cylinder head and is responsible for collecting gases produced during combustion. After that, it delivers those gases to the exhaust pipe.
- Oxygen Sensor – The vehicle’s computer is continually measuring the air/fuel mixture in the engine. The oxygen sensor measures the amount of oxygen in the exhaust and alerts the computer so it can determine how much fuel to send to the combustion chambers.
- Exhaust Pipes – They start at the front of the engine and carry the exhaust through the entire system.
- Catalytic Converter – Carbon monoxide, hydrocarbons and nitrogen oxides are converted into water vapor and less harmful gases.
- Muffler – If you’ve ever had to replace a bad muffler, you know that its job is to “silence” the loud noises produced during combustion.
What does the “Check Engine” light have to do with my vehicle’s exhaust system?
The Check Engine or Service Engine Soon lights are there to alert you to a problem with your car’s emission system. There are countless explanations why your vehicle’s onboard computer is sending you this message (read our blog on the Check Engine light). It could be a simple fix – like a loose gas cap or faulty oxygen sensor. It could also be notifying you of a more complex repair issue such as a catalytic converter that needs to be replaced. When the light turns on, the best plan of action is always to have it diagnosed and corrected as soon as you are able. By delaying any repairs, it could lead to extra strain on your vehicle causing total failure of certain components.
What are signs that I need an exhaust system repair?
The most prevalent problems faced by your vehicle’s exhaust system are rust and corrosion, typically from road salt. To help minimize the effects from road salt, hose the underside of your vehicle every few weeks during the winter months. If you start to notice a lot of rust or holes in any part of the exhaust system, have it checked. Here are some other signs to watch out for when it comes to your vehicle’s exhaust:
- Smelling Exhaust Fumes – In the event you smell fumes within your vehicle, schedule an appointment with Shade Tree Garage in Morristown, NJ. Until you can get the vehicle in for repair, drive with the windows down to minimize any problems with exhaust fumes entering the vehicle.
- Hissing & Popping Noises Coming from the Underside of the Vehicle – Noises from the exhaust system are an indicator there is a leak, most likely in the muffler.
- A Decrease in Fuel Efficiency – This could indicate a broken oxygen sensor.
The simplest way to make sure your vehicle’s exhaust system is operating properly is to have it inspected periodically and to take care of minor issues before they become major exhaust system repairs. The certified auto technicians at Shade Tree Garage in Morristown, New Jersey, perform a courtesy inspection every time your automobile is in for maintenance. If we notice a problem, we’ll inform you so you’re able to deal with it right away. Give Shade Tree Garage a call today to schedule your exhaust repair appointment.