You rely on your car, truck, or utility vehicle’s exhaust system to treat and release the exhaust out of the tailpipe. If the exhaust is not drawn through the system and out the tailpipe, it will build up in the combustion chamber and affect your engine’s performance. J&S Auto Repair can inspect and service your exhaust system when it needs it. Here are signs that it does.
A Very Loud Engine
You don’t want your engine to be too loud because you may end up with a moving violation if it is. An extremely loud engine is a sign that there is a problem with the muffler. The most common problem a muffler has is a hole and it.
Your engine might also make loud hissing and tapping noises if the exhaust manifold gasket has cracked. When this happens, you can hear the exhaust escaping through the crack, especially when you first turn on your car, truck, or C/SUV.
Engine Bay Burning Odors
A cracked exhaust manifold gasket can also create burning odors coming from the engine bay. The exhaust that is escaping out of the crack is extremely hot. Consequently, it can melt plastic and rubber parts with which it comes in contact. You will be able to smell these parts melting, and your engine will likely overheat.
Gas/Diesel Fuel Odors
Another odor you should never detect is gas or diesel fuel odors inside the passenger cabin. This can be a sign that the exhaust system is leaking or clogged. It’s important that you avoid driving your automobile if you can smell gasoline or diesel fuel. Continuing to drive the vehicle will make you sick as you continue to inhale the exhaust.
Power/Acceleration Loss
Your vehicle may lose power and have problems accelerating if there is a clog in the exhaust system or an exhaust system leak. The former will cause the exhaust to back up into the combustion chamber and prevent combustion. The latter will fill the engine with exhaust gases that affect the air and fuel balance and make it sputter.
Reduced Fuel Efficiency
Unfortunately, these engine performance issues will reduce your vehicle’s fuel economy significantly. The reduction may be subtle at first, but, eventually, you will notice that you are filling the tank more often to stay on the road.
Visible Tailpipe Damage
Finally, exhaust system problems are not always invisible to the naked eye. If your tailpipe is hanging too low, or you see holes or pits in it, you need to have the tailpipe replaced.
J&S Auto Repair is the best auto service shop in Warwick, RI, so give us a call today to schedule a service appointment for your vehicle’s exhaust system.
