Without an exhaust system, a car would be a loud, dangerous vehicle to operate. This essential system directs emissions away from your car, so you don’t breathe them in as you drive. It also removes many of the harmful gasses and muffles the sound of their exit. Learn more about your car’s exhaust system, including signs it’s time for auto repair services.

What Do I Need to Know About My Car’s Exhaust System?

The Main Parts

The exhaust manifold, catalytic converter, oxygen sensor, muffler, and tailpipe make up the main parts of an exhaust system. Your stainless steel, cast-iron, or aluminum exhaust manifold connects to engine cylinder heads to collect gases released during combustion for venting into one main pipe. This auto part also burns any leftover fuel.

The oxygen sensor detects oxygen readings in air/fuel mixtures and sends the information to the car’s computer. Located near the exhaust manifold, the sensor regulates fuel consumption by telling the computer to increase or decrease how much the engine receives.

Engine emissions get cleaned by the catalytic converter, which converts carbon monoxide, oxygen, and hydrocarbons into carbon dioxide and water vapor. The muffler, or silencer, literally muffles engine combustion noises, while the tailpipe located at the front or back end of your car releases cleansed gases into the atmosphere.

Common Problems

Rust can form anywhere on your exhaust system due to the corrosive gases and resulting water vapor it handles, resulting in weakened metal and possible leaks. If you smell fumes while you drive, roll down your car windows and visit your local auto repair center immediately to get the pipe or other corroded part fixed or replaced.

Other common problems include sooty deposits on catalytic converters that create clogs, causing acceleration problems. The oxygen sensor can also fail and send your car’s computer the wrong fuel information, resulting in more visits to the gas pump. And since the exhaust system is located under your car, parts can loosen when you drive over potholes or experience other rough roads. Rinse your exhaust system periodically to minimize sooty deposits and schedule auto repair services whenever you suspect a major problem. 

Keep your exhaust system safe and functional with services from Kalispell Alignment & Auto Repair The auto repair center provides drivers throughout Kalispell, MT with tuneups, brake repairs, and oil changes among many other services, and features ASE-certified technicians with over 25 years of experience. Call (406) 755-0234 today to schedule an appointment or learn more about auto repair services online. Follow the Twitter feed for maintenance tips.