Today, the ASE-certified technicians at Christian Brothers Automotive Helotes explain that strange noise coming from the exhaust. Before we break down the reasons behind an exhaust leak, there are a few things you need to know about the exhaust system itself.

How the exhaust system works

Your exhaust system is comprised of several pipes, all connected throughout your car. Exhaust first exits the engine, then travels through this system of pipes before exiting through the tailpipe.

Exhaust fumes leave the engine, go through the exhaust manifold, then the catalytic converter. The catalytic convertor (or ‘cat’) burns off many of the toxins, making the fumes safe to leave the car and enter the atmosphere.

Once the exhaust fumes are safe for the environment, they pass through the muffler, which tones down the noise the exhaust system makes, allowing for a peaceful drive.

Why your exhaust system wears out over time

A well-maintained exhaust system should last two to three years, but the exhaust pipes will be sustaining damage during this time.

Your engine creates and releases a large amount of chemicals, and it’s largely on the exhaust system to break down and contain these toxins.

Outside the car, your exhaust pipes are taking hits from the road, flying debris, road salt and intense weather conditions. Inside the car, the byproducts of the engine’s combustion process begin to eat away at the system designed to contain them. The pipes are constantly wearing down and slowly corroding.

How to recognize a leak in the exhaust system

If not detected early, your exhaust pipes will eventually rot away from corrosion. If they don’t rust through, the connections between the pipes can still come loose.

When this happens, an exhaust leak occurs. Fortunately, an exhaust leak is immediately apparent – you’ll notice a loud, obnoxious sound. There could possibly be drivability issues as well, such as an intermittent fluctuation in power.

If the leak is after the cat, it’s going to be irritating and disrupt your drive. If it occurs before the cat, your exhaust system could be leaking hazardous fumes into the air before they have a chance to be cleared of all toxins.

The only way to know whether the leak occurs before or after the catalytic converter is with an inspection at our Helotes auto repair shop. If you suspect an exhaust leak, call for an appointment immediately.

The nice difference in Helotes exhaust service

Don’t take a chance with your car’s operation or your family’s health. As soon as you hear your exhaust system begin to rattle or rumble, call our auto repair shop in Helotes for an exhaust system inspection.

Our professional technicians will determine the source of your leak and ensure your car is safe to drive on. To schedule an exhaust check today, call Christian Brothers Automotive in Helotes, Texas.