Your engine may be louder than normal because the muffler has a hole in it and can no longer muffle the engine noise. Your engine will also be louder than normal if someone stole the catalytic converter. This is just one sign that you have a problem in the exhaust system. Here are other signs.
Poor Performance
Your engine will perform poorly if the exhaust system is clogged or leaking. Unfortunately, in either case, you will end up with exhaust filling the engine and inhibiting combustion. When this happens, your engine and acceleration will lag. If someone has stolen your catalytic converter, your engine will perform poorly at slow speeds and your acceleration will jerk.
Poor Fuel Economy
No matter the problem, whenever the engine performs inefficiently it consumes more fuel. Consequently, this excess fuel consumption will reduce your fuel efficiency. In other words, you won’t get as many miles per gallon and will find yourself at the service station frequently. This can be difficult if you are living on a tight budget.
Strong Burning Odors
The exhaust system can also produce strong burning odors in the engine if it is leaking. The reason why is that the exhaust is extremely hot, so it will overheat your engine and melt certain engine parts. The most common cause of strong burning odors from an exhaust system leak is a leaking exhaust manifold. This can also happen if the manifold gasket is leaking.
Strong Fuel Odors
Your exhaust system may be clogged if you can smell fuel inside the vehicle. The exhaust system may also be clogged or leaking if you can smell exhaust inside the vehicle. Either way, we recommend that you pull over and call for a tow truck to bring your vehicle to our shop. Driving your automobile and inhaling the fuel or exhaust can make you seriously ill.
Damage to the Tailpipe
Finally, your exhaust system needs to be repaired if the tailpipe has been damaged. It is easy to crack the tailpipe if you hit it on a speed bump or other road hazard. The tailpipe can also corrode and end up with holes in it if it gets too old or is exposed to too much moisture.
Do not worry. Our certified technicians know how to repair exhaust systems, so call us today to set up a service appointment for your automobile. We would be happy to repair your exhaust system for you.