Don’t Travel This Winter Without Knowing THIS About Your Exhaust System
Your car’s exhaust system is pretty important.
It serves several essential functions, not the least of which is keeping you and other vehicle occupants safe.
As you start thinking about winter travel, don’t neglect the necessary maintenance for your exhaust system.
Here’s what you need to know.
The job of the exhaust system
If this system is doing its job, you won’t even notice it. The main purpose is to divert dangerous exhaust fumes away from the vehicle’s engine and decrease how harmful they are. If the fumes aren’t diverted, they can cause the engine compartment to deteriorate and can even be deadly if the noxious carbon monoxide were to build up and seep into the cabin where you and your passengers are riding. But that’s not all. When your exhaust system is well-maintained, your vehicle’s emissions are reduced and you’ll get better fuel economy.
Exhaust system components
Most modern exhaust systems are made up of four parts.
1. Exhaust manifold
This part of the exhaust system connects to the engine and expels the exhaust fumes away from the engine and into the exhaust system components.2. Catalytic converter
The catalytic converter burns off and removes as many of the toxins as possible. It’s responsible for reducing carbon monoxide and minimizing air pollution coming from your car.3. Muffler
You’ll know it if your vehicle needs a new muffler. And so will all your neighbors.As its name suggests, the muffler reduces the noise that comes from your exhaust so that your car runs quietly.
4. Pipes
The pipes are the connectors between the different components of the exhaust system. They guide the travel of the fumes, ultimately sending it out the pipe at the back of your vehicle.Identifying exhaust issues
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There are a few telltale signs that something is amiss with your exhaust system.
- Rattling or vibrating could indicate a catalytic converter problem.
- The Check Engine light coming on can also be an issue with the catalytic converter. If your Check Engine light ever begins flashing, pull over immediately and call for help.
- Loud acceleration may mean your muffler or exhaust pipes are leaking or starting to get worn out.
- A decrease in fuel efficiency could mean any number of issues within the exhaust system.
Trust your exhaust system maintenance to the pros
At Conrad’s, our expert auto technicians can quickly diagnose your exhaust system issue and fix it so you’re back on the road in no time. Keep in mind, the most important thing you can do for your exhaust system is to stay up-to-date with maintenance before any exhaust system component fails. Give us a call at Conrad’s today and stay safe on the road this winter.
Visit a Conrad’s Tire Express & Total Car Care Location near you today!
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