Exhausts
Your car’s exhaust works hard to protect all of us from harmful fumes and emissions, but it does even more, including controlling noise, improving engine performance and increasing fuel efficiency. Every car exhaust works hard, and after thousands of miles on the road may need some repairs or to be replaced.
Here are some of the warning signs your exhaust is on the way out, and what you can do about it.
- Engine noise getting louder: Is engine noise getting louder? The exhaust silencer reduces the rumbling noises produced by the engine and can deteriorate over time or become damaged. Over time, the engine noise will become louder inside the car, and outside it too. If you’re hearing a rattling sound, your catalytic convertor could be loose or needs to be repaired. Catalytic converters are fragile and can crack or split from driving over obstacles on the road (or off it), including speed bumps, uneven roads and rocky roads.
- Rust and damage: Your exhaust deals with hot fumes each time you drive and can become rusted or corroded. When your car isn’t running, check the exhaust for any wear, tear or damage. If you spot anything, it could be time to have it checked out
- Filling up more often: If you find you’re filling up more often, it could be your exhaust system that’s the problem. A leaky exhaust will affect its ability to transport fumes, leaving your engine to operate at a higher temperature. The hotter the engine, the less efficient it is, and the more fuel it will burn.
Your exhaust system should last for thousands of miles, but exactly how long depends on your driving style, how many miles you drive and your vehicle make and model.
Modern car exhausts are typically made from either chrome or stainless steel and should last for the lifetime of the car (unless they’re damaged). High quality, non-stainless-steel exhausts should last for around five years.