Exhaust System Trouble Signs: What To Watch For

Posted on: 2 August 2022

With emissions inspections required in many states, it's important that you understand the signs that your car's exhaust system needs attention. An exhaust leak can cause your car to fail an emissions test, may affect the way that the car runs, and can cost you more in fuel, among other issues. That's why you need to address an exhaust system problem right away. Here are some of the signs to watch for that indicate a problem with your car's exhaust system.

Check Engine Light

The majority of the triggers for your check engine light are related to your car's emissions system. If your check engine light comes on and you're sure that the fuel cap is tight, there's a possibility that you may have a problem with your exhaust system. In most situations, it's beneficial to look for some of the other indications of exhaust problems as well.

Loud Engine Noise

Your exhaust system includes a muffler that helps to regulate the amount of noise produced by your engine. If you start your car and the engine is suddenly much louder than it used to be, that's an indication that you may have an exhaust leak that's allowing more noise to pass through. You'll need to have the system inspected to find the source of the issue.

Vibration Through The Floor

Many times, exhaust problems also lead to increased vibration through the floor of the car, the gas or brake pedal, or even in the steering wheel. That's because the exhaust system typically contains the airflow that results in that vibration, so you only feel it when there's a problem with the system.

Foul Odors

If you're noticing a strong odor of fuel or exhaust in your car, that typically indicates that you have an issue with the exhaust system. Your exhaust system should contain all of those odors as the exhaust passes through the system and out of the tailpipe. Unfortunately, when there's an exhaust leak, you end up with some of those emissions in the cabin of the car, which causes the odors that you notice. 

If you've noticed any of these signs and you suspect that you might have a problem with your car's exhaust system, you should reach out to a local exhaust system repair technician for help. They can test the system and inspect it to find the source of the leak or other issues. That way, you can get your car running as it should be again.

For more information, contact a company like Muffler Man.

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