What is it?
Your car’s exhaust system has come a long way from the old days of exhaust
pipes and mufflers. Today, the exhaust system is safety and emissions control
rolled into one. Have your car’s exhaust system inspected regularly and check
it immediately if you suspect any problems.
What does it do?
The exhaust system routes dangerous exhaust gas from the engine out and away
from the car to keep from affecting the occupants. Next, the exhaust system
reduces exhaust noise from the engine. The catalytic converter reduces the
level of harmful pollutants in the exhaust. The oxygen sensors mounted in the
exhaust system monitor the level of oxygen in the exhaust gases to maintain
efficient engine operation and to monitor the converter’s operation.
Typical Wear and Tear
Maintain a safe car with regular exhaust system checks. Factors that affect
replacement requirements include:
- Driving habits (short trips take their toll on exhaust system life)
- Road conditions (salt, road spray, bumps)
- Vehicle type
- Age of exhaust system parts
Symptoms
- Loud noise
- Rattling noise when starting, accelerating or braking
- Drowsiness while driving
- Rotten eggs smell