Aug. 14th Common Signs of a Failing Exhaust System
Mufflers & Exhaust Nashville, TN
Hillsboro Village Auto Service services mufflers & exhaust in Nashville, TN. We provide quality auto repair & service on most automobile makes and models. Let us be your trusted neighboorhood auto mechanic. If you notice the signs below, contact HVAS today!
There are so many components to a vehicle that allow it to run safely and efficiently. All of these systems and components each play their own role to ensure usability and functionality. Without them, going from point A to point B would be quite difficult. An essential component that’s one of the hardest working systems is your exhaust. A vehicle’s exhaust system serves an important purpose by steering harmful fumes away from the engine and providing the cabin with clean air. At the same time, the exhaust system helps to increase performance and reduce loud engine noises. Using metal brackets and thick rubber dampers, the exhaust system connects the exhaust pipe and muffler to the undercarriage of vehicles. Commonly referred to as the exhaust support/exhaust hanger, this system keeps all of the exhaust-related parts together and close to the vehicle–this way, it won’t get damaged in the event of a fast, bumpy ride. However, without regular auto maintenance and care, the exhaust system can begin to wear out–just like any other component of a car.
Paying Attention to the Signs
Keeping your vehicle’s exhaust system intact will help its overall longevity, therefore, it’s essential that you always keep an eye out for any signs of damage. While the exhaust hanger works hard to avoid any road-related damage, the vibrations that surround that area can be strong and intense. Not to mention, since it’s so close to the ground, it comes in contact with a lot of road debris on a daily basis. If damaged, it can cause a variety of severe problems for your car and will need to be repaired as soon as possible. To avoid the worst outcome, here are a few common signs of a broken or failing exhaust system:
- Loose Exhaust Pipe/Hanging Muffler: One obvious, yet severe indicator that your exhaust system needs to be repaired is if the exhaust pipe is loose and the muffler is hanging lower than usual. Although a loose or hanging exhaust pipe and muffler can still function the same, in the event it comes in contact with large road debris, it can either break off or become damaged. A loose exhaust pipe and hanging muffler is an easy fix and should be brought in to your mechanic as soon as possible.
- Increased Engine Noise/Vibrations: If your exhaust and engine seem to be making noises that are louder than normal, or if the vibrations in your car are noticeably strong, you may have a problem with your exhaust system. Since the exhaust system helps to reduce engine noise, the first place you’ll want to check out in the event of an overly loud engine is the exhaust. A broken pipe or leak is sure to contribute to increased engine noises and high vibrations.
- Low Fuel Efficiency: Your exhaust system works tirelessly to enhance your vehicle’s MPG. Therefore, if you’re noticing that your fuel efficiency is lacking, it may be due to a leak in your exhaust system. With an exhaust leak, car fumes will not be carried away as efficiently as normal and will result in an engine that runs at a hotter temperature–reducing your overall fuel efficiency.
If you notice any of these problems, take your vehicle to your local auto mechanic in Nashville as soon as possible. The start of an exhaust system problem can be an easy fix, but if not treated immediately, it can expand into a much larger problem.
