Yes, in most cases, you will be able to see any damage to your tailpipe. For example, you can see if it is dented, if it has holes in it, or if it is hanging too low. All of these things need immediate attention. Damage to the tailpipe can prevent it from being able to release your vehicle’s exhaust away from the automobile. Boulevard Auto Repair advises that this is just one sign that your exhaust system is in trouble. Here are other signs that the exhaust system is leaking or clogged.
An Engine That’s Too Loud
A loud engine can mean that exhaust is leaking out of a damaged muffler or a cracked exhaust manifold gasket. Generally, if your engine sounds like a race car, you’ve got a problem with the muffler. Important to replace the muffler as soon as possible to avoid a moving violation due to the loud engine.
Decreased Engine Power
Your engine will also lose power if the exhaust system is leaking or clogged. Specifically, a leaking exhaust system will fill the engine with gases that prevent it from generating combustion. The same thing happens with a clogged exhaust system as the exhaust backs up into the combustion chamber.
Decreased Gas Mileage
Unfortunately, when your engine is lagging and struggling to produce power, it will use more gasoline. As such, you will notice a significant difference in the gas mileage your vehicle gets. This can be a problem because you will need to fill your tank more often and gas prices remain on the rise.
Diesel Fuel or Gas Odors
If you smell fuel odors inside your car, truck, or utility vehicle, pull over right away and call for a tow truck. This is a sign that the exhaust is making its way into the passenger cabin. When this happens, you will inhale carbon monoxide while you are driving your vehicle. Stop driving immediately and have your automobile towed to our shop so we can find the reason why the exhaust is heading inside.
Overheating Engine
Finally, we mentioned above that a cracked exhaust manifold gasket can make your engine sound louder. It will also cause your engine to overheat because it will release hot exhaust into the engine. This exhaust is so hot that it can melt auto parts made from rubber or plastic. You will not only see a difference on the temperature gauge but also be able to smell the burning engine parts.
Boulevard Auto Repair in Sherman Oaks, CA, would be happy to repair your vehicle’s exhaust system. Call us today for an appointment.