Some of your vehicle systems have dashboard warning lights to tell you something is wrong. Your exhaust system doesn’t, although the check engine light will come if there is something wrong with your catalytic converter, mass airflow sensor, or oxygen sensor. How can you tell if you have exhaust system problems aside from your check engine light? Willoughby Hills Auto Repair suggests you keep an eye, ear, and nose out for the following five signs.
Noise
Your muffler is part of your car, truck, or SUV’s exhaust system and you will notice your vehicle sounds much louder if there is something wrong with the muffler. Excessive noise is also caused by a failing exhaust manifold gasket, and you’ll notice the increased sounds when you first start your automobile in the morning, from a cold start throughout the day, or when you accelerate.
Acceleration and Power Issues
Speaking of acceleration, exhaust problems can affect engine performance and you might find that your vehicle doesn’t accelerate like it used to or you lose power when you least expect it. Loss of acceleration and/or power can signal an exhaust leak somewhere in your exhaust system, so it’s best to have the power loss inspected as soon as possible to avoid further damage from the leak.
Increased Gas Consumption
A decrease in your vehicle’s fuel efficiency could be caused by any number of things and that includes your exhaust system. In the case of the exhaust system, fuel gorging is caused by the decreases in acceleration and/or power discussed above. Your engine must work harder when it isn’t being powered as it should be and it will use more gas than it normally does in an effort to maintain speed.
Burning Smells
If your catalytic converter is failing, you will smell rotten eggs. If your head gasket is failing, you’ll notice burning smells from your engine bay. Here’s the bad news, both of these repairs can be expensive and if you blow a head gasket, it may be prudent to replace your vehicle rather than repair it. No matter what, hot smells signal trouble, so pull over to safety and get out of the vehicle after you turn it off.
Fuel Smell
You should never smell gasoline inside your car. If you do, your exhaust system isn’t functioning as it should be. The issue could be caused by damage to your exhaust pipes or tubes. The tubes or pipes leak exhaust and you smell gas inside your automobile as a result. Don’t take chances and drive your car as if nothing is wrong. Rather, a gas smell spells danger so get your vehicle to the service shop ASAP.
Willoughby Hills Auto Repair maintains and repairs vehicle exhaust systems, including diesel systems. We are located in Willoughby Hills, OH, and you can call us today.