The exhaust system is one of the most important systems in your vehicle. It controls emissions that can be damaging to the environment. It protects your engine from harmful contaminants. And of course, it keeps deadly exhaust fumes from getting into the passenger cabin.
If your exhaust system has a leak or a faulty component such as the muffler, exhaust pipes, catalytic converter, oxygen sensor, manifold gaskets or something else, you do not want to wait on repairs. You need your entire exhaust system running effectively and efficiently. Otherwise, it will affect vehicle performance and even your health. If left unrepaired, a poor exhaust system can also lead to major engine damage that will be very expensive to repair.
Here are a few signs you can look for to know if your vehicle might have exhaust system problems:
1. Rattling or Other Odd Noises
A rattling sound is often associated with an exhaust system issue, along with other strange noises you might here. An unusual noise can be caused by any number of vehicle problems, though, so it’s best to get your car checked out by a professional mechanic in order to determine the true source of the sound.
2. Vibrating
If your car is vibrating or seemingly losing power, this is a common sign of exhaust system concerns that you will want to have looked at.
3. Check Engine Light
The check engine light can come on for any number of reasons. Some are very serious while others may be minor. The exhaust system (especially the oxygen sensor) is one of the most common reasons the light may come on. No matter what, you don’t want to mess around when the check engine light comes on. Get your vehicle inspected as soon as possible.
4. Exhaust Fume Smells
If you are in the car and it smells strongly of exhaust fumes when the engine is on, this is obviously a cause for concern. You could be breathing in deadly carbon monoxide and there is likely a leak somewhere in the exhaust system.
5. Decreased Fuel Efficiency
The vehicle’s fuel efficiency can be greatly affected by the exhaust system. Your engine may not be getting enough oxygen or exhaust fumes may be backed up and damaging critical components in the engine and fuel system. Decreased fuel efficiency can be a result of numerous issues, however, so again it’s best to get this looked at by an expert automotive technician.
These are just some of the most common signs of exhaust system problems. For all your Mid-Atlantic exhaust system repair, inspection and maintenance needs, count on the team at Fox Run Auto in Bear, DE. We’ll make sure your exhaust system is running the way it should and your vehicle is performing at its best. Call us today at (302) 597-9205 or schedule your service appointment online.