The Most Common Exhaust Problems With Your Car (And How to Solve Them)

In-depth analysis of the functioning of an automobile reveals that the engine requires the harmonious support of the transmission, suspension, and exhaust system. A vehicle may not perform as well as it should if one of them fails.

In particular, in the case of the exhaust system, it should function correctly to guarantee the proper exhaustion of extra harmful gases so that the engine can carry out the combustion process. Otherwise, the engine might become clogged, which could hinder the combustion process and eventually affect the vehicle's overall performance.

But it's a good idea to be aware of exhaust system flaws. Here is a quick breakdown of exhaust-related issues.

A Malfunctioning Oxygen Sensor Fails To Intimate The ECU Properly.

The oxygen sensor is used by the exhaust system to collect data about the gases that are supposed to be released into the environment. When the task is finished, the ECU starts the internal combustion process.

The ECU, on the other hand, fails to produce the proper air-to-fuel ratio if there is any malfunctioning. As a result, the combustion chamber does not receive the proper fuel, and the process has a good chance of going wrong.

Either mixture could heat up too much or the combustion chamber converts energy inefficiently. It even damages the catalytic converter and causes the engine to misfire on occasion.

A sensor failure is a difficult problem to diagnose, though. Engine misfiring initially appeared to be an issue with the engine.

However, you can speak with a specialist at Service My Car to get the right assessment of the problem and the right fix for the same.

Exhaust Smoke Hints At Some Underlying Issue

It is normal for combustion to produce smoke. However, it should be colourless, as coloured smoke is a sign of trouble. There could be grey, white, blue, or black smoke. The coloured smoke, however, typically arises from some flaws in the combustion process.

The blue smoke is typically created when engine oil burns inside the engine. Because of worn valves, cylinder walls, or a faulty head gasket, engine oil may leak into the combustion chamber.

On the other hand, black smoke results from the engine using more fuel than it should. The main cause of these problems turns out to be a clogged air or fuel filter. However, you can opt for an air filter replacement at a reliable service centre to counter the issue. If the smoke is white or grey in colour, coolant leakage is to blame.

Exhaust Leakage May Result From the Presence of Malodorous Inside Cabins

There are many chances for leakage into the system manifold or even one of the joints throughout the exhaust system, which extends from the front to the rear and heavily relies on the pipes.

However, a leak at the manifold poses a threat because it could let toxic fumes into the cabin while the engine makes loud noises.

Since toxic gases in smoke are purified by the catalytic converter but escape due to leakage, the passenger may be in danger of dying as a result of the leak.

A Failed Catalytic Converter May Hamper the Engine's Performance

However, a failed catalytic converter could cause issues if it becomes clogged or damaged as a result of overheating. The catalytic converter does the trick of converting the dangerous gases into safe steam to release into the environment. Sometimes, the converter is exposed to emissions containing substances that coat the working surfaces, catalyst poisoning happens.

Many times, drivers ignore the warning signs of a failing catalytic converter and believe their car is still in good condition. However, most of the vehicles on the road today use catalytic converters. These devices have almost become a requirement for new cars.

But, there is a serious issue with wear and tear on these expensive units, which are frequently unable to prevent damage due to the negative effects of gasoline. A defective catalytic indirectly impacts the engine of a vehicle as it hampers the combustion chamber. There is also some sort of improper fuel efficiency.

However, a proactive approach might save you more effort and time in terms of car engine repair.

Unnecessary Vibrations Are Not Healthy For A Safe Drive

You may be feeling vibrations around your steering wheel as a result of an unhealthy exhaust system. Sometimes the entire vehicle feels these vibrations, which is not a good sign for a safe drive.

You don't anticipate seeing a car causing trouble on the road. However, if you choose to seek a professional assessment and do not ignore such problems, there is a lower likelihood that something will go wrong.

Exhaust System Rust and Loose Hangers

Rust is a true enemy to the exhaust system as it hampers it slowly until it goes bad and starts to pose an issue. However, this is common in vehicles that do not get enough rides. The water vapours do not get enough time to burn off.

Besides, the exhaust system stays with your car with the help hangers. But a loose or broken hanger is not a good sign for a vehicle's exhaust system.

The exhaust problems may be avoided by taking preventive measures. It requires you to inspect the exhaust system once or twice a year. However, you can ask for a professional's help during the car maintenance to identify the causes and address them properly.

Service My Car offers distinctive services and solutions for all of your automotive needs. You can quickly and conveniently order a car service package or ask for a quotation for a car repair on the Service My Car app or website.