Auto Exhaust System Repair LaGrange
If you smell smoke in your cabin area or hear loud exhaust noises that are more than normal, it could indicate a problem with your exhaust system.
The exhaust system is a crucial part of the normal functioning of a vehicle. It directs toxic fumes away from the cabin, reduces engine noise, improves fuel efficiency, and reduces the release of harmful emissions into the air.
What is an Exhaust System?
An exhaust system removes harmful gasses produced by the engine’s combustion process. It keeps these gasses from the cabin, making the driving experience comfortable for the driver and other occupants.
The exhaust system consists of other smaller components, each with its unique function. The combined functionality of these parts ensures the proper functioning of the vehicle’s exhaust system. They include;
- The exhaust valve and piston – Releases gasses from the cylinders in the vehicle
- Exhaust manifold – Directs exhaust fumes from the engine to the vehicle’s catalytic converter
- Catalytic converter – It converts harmful fumes into environmentally friendly compounds like water
- Exhaust pipe – Directs the cleaner exhaust emissions to the tailpipe
- Muffler – Reduces combustion noise from the engine
- Tailpipe – Releases fumes from your vehicle into the air
What Is the Difference Between a Muffler and an Exhaust?
A muffler is a single component of the exhaust system that reduces the engine’s noises when combusting fuel. The exhaust is the entire system that evacuates engine gases in a way that makes the driving experience more comfortable.
The exhaust system includes the exhaust valve, piston, manifold, catalytic converter, muffler, and tailpipe.
Due to several reasons, the exhaust systems may fail. It should not worry you as Auto Gallery Chevrolet Buick GMC can provide professional muffler and exhaust repair.
What Are the Signs of a Damaged Exhaust?
- Excessive Engine/Exhaust Noise
- Reduced Fuel Economy
- Slow Acceleration
- Stench of Strong gasses
- Banging or Knocking Sound Beneath the Vehicle
- Rust Caused By Condensation
- Engine Is Misfiring
- A Burning Smell Coming From the Engine Bay
While driving with a faulty exhaust is possible, we don’t recommend it for safety and legal reasons. Safety reasons include the release of poisonous gasses into the cabin, and legal reasons include the possibility of incurring heavy fines due to driving an unroadworthy vehicle.
In addition, ignoring a faulty exhaust can lead to more expensive repairs in the future. Vehicles have different types of exhaust systems, but there are some common signs you should look out for.
Here are some signs you’ll notice in your vehicle. They indicate that you need to do a muffler and exhaust repair as soon as possible.
Excessive Engine/Exhaust Noise
The noise may be a growl, clunking, or huge vibrations. The common culprit behind excessive engine noise is a faulty muffler. However, other reasons can contribute to a loud exhaust noise, such as cracks in the tailpipe due to rust.
Reduced Fuel Economy
It’s usually a less obvious sign indicating a faulty exhaust system. When a car’s exhaust has a crack or leak, it impacts the pressure of the exhaust system. It causes the engine to work more, thereby consuming more fuel than necessary.
Slow Acceleration
Acceleration depends on the engine’s power output, which depends on the proper functioning of an exhaust system. If the exhaust system fails, you’ll notice that you’re planting your foot down on the accelerator pedal to force the engine to produce more power.
Stench of Strong gasses
A faulty catalytic converter is the cause of a stench in the cabin area of a vehicle. It presents with a distinct rotten egg smell or the smell of gas.
Other causes of unpleasant fumes in the cabin can include a crack anywhere in the exhaust system.
Banging or Knocking Sound Beneath the Vehicle
It could indicate a faulty exhaust system, especially if an exhaust mount has come off and the exhaust pipe is hanging close to the ground.
Rust Caused By Condensation
Condensation is normal when running your vehicle, since it’s a by-product of the catalytic conversion of gas from the engine. However, the accumulation of this condensation can cause rust to build up, which destroys the exhaust system.
Engine Is Misfiring
Engine misfires can result from many issues, including a faulty exhaust system. It happens when the exhaust manifold leaks. An obstruction in any part of your vehicle’s exhaust system may also cause a backfire.
A Burning Smell Coming From The Engine Bay
A faulty exhaust system can cause a strong, pungent smell from the engine bay area. It happens when there is a problem with the exhaust manifold. Oil may also leak into the exhaust system components, leading to a burning smell.
What Are the Most Common Exhaust System Problems?
- Rust
- Loose Parts
- Blockages
- Wear and Tear
Rust
Due to the proximity of the exhaust system to wet ground, rust of the metal components of the exhaust system over time is normal. Rust causes the formation of holes and cracks in the exhaust system.
Loose Parts
Though hard to notice, loose parts due to knocks on the road may contribute to exhaust system problems.
Blockages
Blockages can result from internal factors like the exhaust’s build-up of soot and carbon in the catalytic converter. It can also result from external factors like outside debris getting in the exhaust.
Wear and tear
Depending on the lifespan of your vehicle, wear and tear of your vehicle’s exhaust system are normal. Having a professional look at the state of your vehicle may help mitigate the bad effects of wear and tear on your exhaust system.
What Are the Benefits of Car Exhaust System Repair
- Catalytic Converter Replacement
- Center Exhaust Section Replacement
- Downpipe Replacement
- Exhaust Inspection
- Manifold Replacement
- Muffler Replacement
Your vehicle can remain in motion with minor faults in the exhaust manifold. However, significant defects will cause the car to stop running.
You mustn’t wait until the exhaust problems become severe. Visit AutoGalleryChevyBuickGMC auto repair shop in LaGrange as soon as you notice signs of a faulty exhaust.
Here are the benefits you’ll get from doing a car exhaust system repair.
Catalytic Converter Replacement
Replacing this exhaust component will ensure the proper conversion of toxic gasses from the engine into less harmful pollutants.
Center Exhaust Section Replacement
The center exhaust section covers a large surface area and is likely to get damaged, especially when driving over rough terrain. Replacing the whole center exhaust section containing the catalytic converter and central exhaust pipes will solve most exhaust problems.
Downpipe Replacement
The downpipe is the connector between the exhaust manifold and the catalytic converter. When damaged, replacing it can significantly increase the engine power output, as well as torque.
Exhaust Inspection
Exhaust inspection is beneficial in checking for abnormalities and issues with the exhaust pipes early before they become significant issues.
Taking your vehicle to a professional Auto Exhaust System repair shop will ensure that a mechanic correctly diagnoses it. Car exhaust technicians will advise doing an auto exhaust system repair if they find cracks, holes, or leaks in the exhaust system.
Manifold Replacement
The manifold collects gasses from the engine cylinders and directs them to the exhaust pipe. Replacing a faulty manifold increases the power and acceleration of the vehicle. The vehicle will also have better gas mileage due to a properly functioning engine.
Muffler Replacement
Replacing a faulty muffler ensures noise reduction from the engine’s combustion processes. It leads to a much smoother ride and driving experience.
How Much Does an Exhaust System Repair Cost?
Depending on the part of the exhaust needing repair, it can cost around $300 to $1,500 to do a car exhaust system repair. The price range covers the labor and the cost of replacing the exhaust system if needed.
Repairing an exhaust system takes little time, usually 15 to 120 minutes, before a qualified professional diagnoses and fixes your exhaust system.
Get Your Car Exhaust System Repaired at AGCBG Today
If you suspect that you have an exhaust problem, visit a professional exhaust system repair shop at Auto Gallery Chevrolet Buick GMC. It is crucial that you do so as soon as possible to avoid serious damage to your engine.
To avoid long wait times, you can schedule a service and arrive at your convenient time to repair your exhaust system.
For additional information and inquiries, reach us at 706-882-2576.
FAQs
What Does a Catalytic Converter Do?
A catalytic converter filters harmful gasses produced by the combustion in the engine and turns them into less toxic byproducts. It’s an effective pollution reduction mechanism that ensures the vehicle releases fewer harmful products into the air.
Will Replacing/Repairing My Exhaust System Improve Gas Mileage?
Yes, it will. A properly functioning exhaust system ensures that the pressure system inside the engine is optimal for its proper functioning. When the engine performs optimally, fuel efficiency is high.
So if you wish to have good gas mileage, consider doing an auto exhaust system repair for your faulty exhaust.
What Is the Difference Between a Muffler and the Exhaust?
A muffler is a single component within the exhaust system. Its function is to reduce engine noise to provide a comfortable driving experience. The exhaust is the whole system responsible for evacuating gasses produced by the engine.
If you have problems with the whole exhaust system, it’s better to do a muffler and exhaust repair.
How Often Do Exhaust Pipes Need Replacement?
Exhaust pipes can last up to 10 years without needing replacement. Vehicles with exhaust systems made with corrosion-resistant metals like stainless steel or galvanized steel can last even longer.
How Are Exhaust Pipe Issues Diagnosed?
An exhaust repair mechanic at AutoGalleryChevyBuickGMC will diagnose issues with the exhaust pipe by checking for several problems.
For example, they’ll listen for unusual sounds coming from the car’s underside and check for unwanted fumes in the vehicle’s cabin area. They’ll also check for visible cracks and holes on the exhaust pipes under your car.
How Are Exhaust Pipes Replaced?
Professional vehicle mechanics will replace the exhaust pipes depending on which exhaust component has a problem. The general process will begin by parking and raising the car using a jack, then working on the faulty part or section.