Located on the underside of your vehicle, the exhaust system is responsible for collecting and directing harmful emissions away from the vehicle, reducing the amount of pollutants released into the environment, and minimizing engine exhaust noise and force. The exhaust system is composed of pipes and tubing designed to streamline vehicle operation while maximizing vehicle performance and efficiency. Engines produce dangerous gases as a by-product of the combustion process. The exhaust manifold collects the emissions from the engine and funnels the gases through the front pipe to the catalytic converter. The converter transforms these harmful gases, like carbon monoxide, hydrocarbons, and nitrogen oxide, into less harmful ones, like oxygen, nitrogen, water vapour, and carbon dioxide. The silencer helps cancel out the noise created by the engine. The silencer dissipates sound waves while the tailpipe releases the converted gases into the atmosphere.
Depending upon the problem, the exhaust system can affect both your vehicle’s performance and your ability to drive. For these reasons, it is important to keep current with maintenance intervals on your exhaust system. A repair may be needed if you hear excessively loud noises during acceleration. These noises may be a sign of holes or cracks somewhere in the exhaust system. Rattling noises when starting the vehicle or excessive idling may be a sign of failed or broken hangers. If you feel drowsiness while driving, this may be a serious sign that fumes are leaking through the vents and into the car interior. Sharp odours are also signs that noxious fumes are leaking into the vehicle. Signs of rust or cracks in any component of your exhaust system indicate corrosion. If you experience any of these symptoms, you should seek help sooner than later.
