Leak in Exhaust Pipe Symptoms

During the running of the combustion engine, the exhaust gases and noises Produced need to be blown outside of the vehicle system; for this purpose, a Proper routing system is designed to direct these gases to the rare bumper on the left or right side.

If there is a leak in the exhaust system, Unsafe fumes (odorless) and harmful noise will affect the Passenger’s health as well as be released into the atmosphere without adequate treatment, usually through (catalytic & muffler exhaust systems).

The exhaust system is mainly fixed beneath the car. Driving under different conditions will expose it to salty-soil hard-water extreme temperatures, causing rusting, affecting the gasket, and creating leaks. Your vehicle will lose power, increase fuel consumption, and fail emission inspection if not repaired on time.

Indication of Exhaust Leak

The following are the main signs to be considered

• Check the engine light on the dashboard
• Abnormal engine sound (sound beneath the car)
• Burning gas smell 
• Loss of power/weak acceleration
• Low fuel efficiency
• Fail exhaust emission test

1. Check the Engine Light on the Dashboard

In modern car designs, the exhaust system is monitored by a Sensor installed to absorb escape fuel mixtures; the O2 sensors are the ones that check the efficiency of the catalytic converter. if there is any leak before these sensors, the recognized faulty measure values affect the engine light on the car dashboard.

2. Abnormal Engine Sound (Blowing Sound Beneath the Car)

If there is a leak in the exhaust pipe on or before the muffler, you will listen to a rumble sound when accelerating the engine. It may be a pitch whistling, depending on the size of the leak, or a hissing noise during engine running; if it’s unusual, it most probably will be a punctured exhaust pipe.

3. Burning Gas Smell

Smelling gas (exhaust odor) inside the passenger cabin is also a sign; these gases, including carbon monoxide, are harmful to health; if you are driving, let the window roll down and be concerned about repair as soon as possible.

4. Loss of Power/Weak Acceleration

By pressing the gas pedal, you will not get the desired acceleration (unusual pickup), most probably a leak in the exhaust, which causes a drop in back pressure and other potential issues.

5. Low Fuel Efficiency

The modern car is designed using Sensors in the exhaust system, informing the control unit to calculate the air-fuel mixture for the next cycle in the car engine because of wrong values. An improper Air-to-fuel ratio causes a reduction in overall efficiency and will cause rough idle, rough acceleration, and misfires.

6. Fail Exhaust Emission Test

Almost all countries’ cars should pass emission inspection tests every year; if there is a leak found somewhere in the exhaust system, it will probably fail the examination test.

The air-fuel mixture is a mess when it leaks before the O2 sensor, and after the sensor inspection test, it will be a lean mixture. However, it depends on the leak size.

Causes And Preventive Measurement

Driving in off-road conditions, rusted structural components of the exhaust system, and worn rubber isolators were the top causes.

When driving the vehicle, mostly in rough areas, all the components shake and bump, and all of the parts are rusted; if the exhaust pipe hanger falls, all the parts weaken or are damaged because of more vibration.

Regulate service inspection, check if all parts are tightened and lubricated if needed, and use the car wash most often, especially when driving roughly; regular maintenance will protect you from serious issues.

Conclusion

Recognizing the symptoms of exhaust pipe leaks is crucial for maintaining health and vehicle performance. Take preventive measures to avoid misshapes, and you can ensure your safety and that of other road users. Take care of the environmental impact of your vehicle.