A good rule of thumb is to have your exhaust system inspected once a year. This allows Journey Auto Repair to find parts that have worn down and need to be replaced before they start to create huge problems. It also allows us to search for clogs or leaks in the exhaust system that will affect your vehicle’s performance. Let’s talk more about this below.
Burning Odors
For example, if you smell burning odors coming from the engine and the engine is overheating, you may have an exhaust leak flowing out of a cracked exhaust manifold gasket. This gasket needs to be replaced right away to prevent the scorching exhaust from damaging your engine.
Engine Lag
An exhaust leak can also cause your engine to lag because it is filling up with exhaust gases. The engine will also have performance issues if the exhaust system is clogged. This is because the exhaust gets pushed back into the combustion chamber where it impedes combustion production.
Poor Gas Mileage
Unfortunately, any time you have engine performance problems with your automobile, your gas mileage will take a hit. You will see a reduction in your vehicle’s fuel economy that can only be corrected by finding the problem with the exhaust system and repairing it. We can do that at our shop.
Gas/Diesel Smells
If you smell gasoline or diesel fuel inside your vehicle’s cabin, it is critical that you pull over and turn the automobile off. A leaking or clogged exhaust system can push the exhaust into the passenger cabin. When this happens, you inhale carbon monoxide which can make you ill or be deadly.
Loud Engine
If your engine has suddenly gotten extremely loud, the muffler has developed a hole. Unfortunately, this means that the muffler needs to be replaced in order to reduce the noise that your engine makes. Another sign that the muffler is malfunctioning is rumbling noises when you accelerate.
Tailpipe Damage
Finally, your exhaust system needs a little TLC if your tailpipe has been damaged. Road debris can fly out of your tires and dent the tailpipe, crack it, or punch a hole in it. You may also end up with a corroded tailpipe if it is extremely old. We can replace your tailpipe with a new one if it needs it.
Journey Auto Repair in New Hope, MN, is here to help, so call us today to schedule an exhaust system inspection if it has been more than a year since your last one.