You may start noticing that your car is idling or running "rough, your muffler is suddenly making loud popping noises, or the "check engine" light on the dashboard lights up and doesn't go off. These are common problems that indicate there may be a leak in your vehicle's exhaust system.
To help save you valuable time and money spent at an auto shop, you may be able to determine if you having a leak in your exhaust system, and possibly also pinpoint the location and source of the leak. Your auto mechanic will then be able to go directly to the problem point and apply the appropriate muffler repair.
Follow these Useful Tips to Check Leaks in Your Vehicle's Muffler:
- Because metal expands as it heats up, small leaks get smaller, making them difficult to detect. Make sure the car engine is cool when you look under the hood.
- By covering the muffler (only temporarily) to force the exhaust through any leaks, start at the engine and follow the exhaust system all the way to the end, feeling for hot air escaping through the pipe. The connectors are especially prone to leaks. Be careful not to touch the muffler as it will get hot.
- Remove the plastic engine cover so you can inspect the exhaust manifold for cracking or warping, a common problem in older cars.
- Another common cause of leaks is a cracked gasket. If that is the case you will feel hot air escaping as well as a strong smell of fumes. The gasket connecting the manifold to the cylinder head can crack just through normal use, especially in older cars.
- Check the muffler for rust. Areas weakened by rust will often start to leak. You may be able to determine whether the rust is just surface, or if it goes all the way through the metal.
Because most vehicle owners are not comfortable performing these tests themselves, have your vehicle inspected by a qualified auto mechanic. Most auto shops will run tests free of charge and then recommend the appropriate service.
Have muffler problems? Contact our ASE Certified technicians today at (763) 441-2889 or go to www.elkrivertireandauto.com for more information about an inspection of your exhaust system. Our auto shop in Elk River, MN proudly serves residents in the areas of Zimmerman, MN, and Otsego, Minnesota.
You may start noticing that your car is idling or running "rough, your muffler is suddenly making loud popping noises, or the "check engine" light on the dashboard lights up and doesn't go off. These are common problems that indicate there may be a leak in your vehicle's exhaust system.
To help save you valuable time and money spent at an auto shop, you may be able to determine if you having a leak in your exhaust system, and possibly also pinpoint the location and source of the leak. Your auto mechanic will then be able to go directly to the problem point and apply the appropriate muffler repair.
Follow these Useful Tips to Check Leaks in Your Vehicle's Muffler:
- Because metal expands as it heats up, small leaks get smaller, making them difficult to detect. Make sure the car engine is cool when you look under the hood.
- By covering the muffler (only temporarily) to force the exhaust through any leaks, start at the engine and follow the exhaust system all the way to the end, feeling for hot air escaping through the pipe. The connectors are especially prone to leaks. Be careful not to touch the muffler as it will get hot.
- Remove the plastic engine cover so you can inspect the exhaust manifold for cracking or warping, a common problem in older cars.
- Another common cause of leaks is a cracked gasket. If that is the case you will feel hot air escaping as well as a strong smell of fumes. The gasket connecting the manifold to the cylinder head can crack just through normal use, especially in older cars.
- Check the muffler for rust. Areas weakened by rust will often start to leak. You may be able to determine whether the rust is just surface, or if it goes all the way through the metal.
Because most vehicle owners are not comfortable performing these tests themselves, have your vehicle inspected by a qualified auto mechanic. Most auto shops will run tests free of charge and then recommend the appropriate service.
Have muffler problems? Contact our ASE Certified technicians today at (763) 441-2889 or go to www.elkrivertireandauto.com for more information about an inspection of your exhaust system. Our auto shop in Elk River, MN proudly serves residents in the areas of Zimmerman, MN, and Otsego, Minnesota.
