Fumes are an important indicator that your exhaust system may need to be replaced. Bad smells, such as rotten eggs, are not only unpleasant but can be hazardous to your health and the environment. It's helpful to think of an exhaust system as the lungs of your vehicle - what the engine absorbs, the exhaust system releases, similar to when you inhale and exhale. When carbon deposits and rust spread, toxic gases leak out and become more potent in the air. The exhaust gases you're smelling don't travel properly through the muffler, so the vapors are also trapped in the car.
This is a problem with your catalytic converter, one of the many elements that make up the entire system. Do you notice unusual vibrations in the accelerator, steering wheel, or car seats? This is another indication of a faulty exhaust and could be due to a rusty exhaust pipe or exhaust leaks.The most common sign of a faulty exhaust system is excessive noise from the engine or muffler. This sound can be attributed to a damaged or broken muffler, worn pipes, or loose fittings. If you start to notice any strange noise coming from your vehicle, it could indicate that there is a problem with the exhaust system that needs attention.
The loud, roaring noises that come from the muffler are a sure sign that it may need to be changed. When the muffler starts to make loud noises, this usually means that it has a hole or that it has suffered some other type of damage. Engine exhaust travels through the muffler, where the muffler chamber will help reduce the magnitude of vibrations caused by the exhaust, which will reduce sound production. However, if the muffler is damaged, these vibrations will not be controlled or reduced and will cause a series of loud and roaring noises every time you drive the car. When accelerating, the muffler must prevent the exhaust system from making excessive noise. If your car is traveling fewer and fewer miles per gallon and making more trips to the gas station than usual, it might be time to take it to an ASE-accredited auto mechanic for an inspection.
While you're at it, watch for cracks, holes, or rust around welds between the exhaust manifold and cylinder. If there is corrosion or cracks present, you will need a replacement. Depending on how often you use your vehicle, your exhaust system may vary in terms of its duration. However, like any other part of your car, it can suffer regular damage and wear and tear. Not only are toxic fumes or smoke produced by a car's exhaust fumes harmful to you and the environment, but a faulty exhaust system makes it difficult for your car to operate by affecting its fuel efficiency and overall condition of the engine. In some cases, it may be more cost-effective and efficient to replace the entire exhaust system rather than doing individual repairs.
If you have identified any of these signs on your car and are wondering where you can perform an exhaust system service or replacement in southeastern Wisconsin - including Milwaukee, Waukesha and Racine - you can schedule an appointment at more than 17 Boucher Auto Group locations.
