Cars are complicated bits of machinery. You don’t have to be an automotive mechanic to know that. There are many, many components to an automotive engine, each requiring service, maintenance and occasional repair. Your car’s exhaust system is responsible for making sure that they by-products that help to keep your car moving are properly removed from your engine.
Your exhaust system also affects engine performance, keeps your car from sounding noisy, and protects you from potentially deadly fumes.
The Dangers of Car Exhaust Issues
There are a few quite significant dangers to having a bad exhaust system. Some are mentioned above, but here are some more warning signs and consequences to watch out for.
Toxic Fumes
Car exhaust fumes are made up of carbon monoxide, which is a toxic and deadly gas. If your car’s exhaust system is leaky enough or is leaking in the wrong place, then this gas could enter your car. If your windows are kept up, this becomes a potentially lethal situation. Even if your windows are rolled down there is still the potential to get very sick.
Low Fuel Economy
The exhaust system is an integral part of your car’s engine. It needs to work properly for your engine to remain at its most efficient. A leaky or otherwise faulty exhaust will reduce the fuel efficiency of your car – costing you money and time.
Poor Engine Performance
The pressure caused by your exhaust system is needed to make sure that your engine runs fine. Any leaks reduce this pressure, and can impact the performance of your engine. This can cause stalling, a lack of power in acceleration and sputtering of your engine.
Signs of A Bad Exhaust System
Vibrations
If your acceleration pedal vibrates when you’re driving, especially as you move forward, you may very well have an exhaust leak. Larger leaks will cause your whole vehicle to shudder and shake.
Increased Noise
This is one of the most common signs of a leaky or damaged exhaust system. A loud rumbling (especially during acceleration) is an indicator that something is wrong.
A Noticeable Difference in Your Mileage
Have you noticed that you’re not getting as many kilometres per litre as normal? This may be because your engine is consuming extra fuel to compensate for a leak in your exhaust.
If you think that something is wrong with your exhaust, the best thing to do is to take your car to your local mechanic. Even if nothing’s wrong, and your suspicions are ungrounded, it is better to be safe than sorry! Who knows, you might end up saving yourself a great deal of time, and money. To make a booking with your local Canning Vale mechanic, contact AME Automotive today.