Exhaust System
Located on the underside of your vehicle, the exhaust system is responsible for collecting and directing harmful emissions away from the vehicle, reducing the amount of pollutants released into the environment, and minimizing engine exhaust noise and force. The exhaust system is composed of pipes and tubing designed to streamline vehicle operation while maximizing vehicle performance and efficiency. Engines produce dangerous gases as a byproduct of the combustion process. The exhaust manifold collects the emissions from the engine and funnels the gases through the front pipe to the catalytic converter. The converter transforms these harmful gases, like carbon monoxide, hydrocarbons, and nitrogen oxide, into less harmful ones, like oxygen, nitrogen, water vapor, and carbon dioxide. The muffler helps cancel out the noise created by the engine. The muffler dissipates sound waves while the tailpipe releases the converted gases into the atmosphere.
Since most auto-owners have limited experience in car repair, it’s always best to let a professional handle any technical issues that arise; however, being able to at least recognize that your vehicle is in trouble is a very useful skill for laypeople to have – particularly when it comes to a leaky exhaust. While the smell of fumes can be an indication of an exhaust leak, a deep rumbling sound can also signify the need for a new muffler. Another telltale sign is a steady decrease in fuel efficiency. It’s important to take your car into an automotive repair facility if you’ve noticed any of these warning signs!
Maintaining your muffler and exhaust system not only helps to minimize engine noise, it helps protect you and others from dangerous carbon monoxide and/or carbon dioxide fumes and helps reduce pollutants released into the atmosphere. Your emissions system:
- Directs harmful engine-exhaust gases away from the inside of your vehicle
- Reduces pollutants released into the atmosphere
- Minimizes engine-exhaust noises
- Improve your Fuel Efficiency