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10 Exhaust Leak Symptoms to Be Aware Of

exhaust leak symptoms
juan-lara 2023-02-15

Wondering why your vehicle isn’t as fuel-efficient or powerful? It could be exhaust leak symptoms! See our top ten symptoms list for what to keep an eye out for: decreased fuel efficiency, engine power loss, louder-than-usual engine noise, and more. Don’t let the warning signs slip by – address that exhaust system with swiftness and care so you can restore optimal performance to your ride.

What is an Exhaust Leak? 

An exhaust leak is a common problem in any vehicle with an internal combustion engine. It is caused by a hole or crack in the exhaust system, which allows exhaust gases to escape. Exhaust leak symptoms can vary, some of which can be dangerous if left unchecked. Here’s how you can quickly identify and address the problem.

Signs of Exhaust Leak Symptoms

  1. Decreased fuel efficiency: One of the first signs of an exhaust leak is a decrease in fuel efficiency. This is because the leak allows unburned fuel to escape, which can result in the engine running lean. This can cause the engine to use more energy to maintain power, resulting in decreased fuel efficiency.
  2. Decreased engine power: Another symptom of an exhaust leak is reduced engine power. This is because the leak can cause a restriction in the exhaust flow, which can rob the engine of power. This can also cause the engine to run rough or stall.
  3. Increased emissions: An exhaust leak can also cause increased emissions. This is because the leak can allow unburned fuel to escape, resulting in higher levels of hydrocarbons and carbon monoxide in the exhaust.
  4. Loud engine noise: An exhaust leak can also create a loud noise from the engine. This can be caused by the exhaust gases escaping through a hole or crack, creating a whistling or hissing sound.
  5. Rotten egg smell: An exhaust leak can also result in a strong, rotten egg smell from the engine. This can be caused by leaking sulfur compounds, which are present in many fuels.
  6. Visible damage: If the exhaust leak is large enough, it may be visible as damage on the exhaust pipe. This can include holes, cracks, or other forms of physical harm.
  7. Check engine light: An exhaust leak can trigger the check engine light on the dashboard. An increase in emissions or a decrease in engine performance can cause this.
  8. Vibrations: An exhaust leak can cause vibrations, particularly in the muffler area of the vehicle, if it’s not adequately sealed.
  9. Heating up the floor: If the exhaust leak is located near the vehicle’s cabin, the exhaust gases can find their way into the car, increasing the temperature in the floorboards. This can be particularly dangerous in a car with a catalytic converter.
  10. Poor performance in cold weather: An exhaust leak can worsen in cold weather, resulting in poor engine performance, difficulty starting, and even stalling.

If you suspect an exhaust leak, it is vital to have it checked out by a professional mechanic as soon as possible. An exhaust leak can reduce fuel efficiency and engine power and can also be dangerous to the driver and passengers due to the release of toxic gases.

Takeaways

Exhaust leaks are very problematic and can cause a vehicle a host of problems. Decreased fuel efficiency, reduced engine power, increased emissions, and loud engine noise are all common exhaust leak symptoms. To ensure it doesn’t become a bigger problem and put you in danger or risk costly repairs, get your vehicle to Lafayette German Car Repair! Our knowledgeable team of professional technicians are friendly experts whose primary motive is ensuring that you and your car have safe travels throughout the Bay Area. So don’t wait – head over now to keep any pesky exhaust leaks away!