Overview
Your car’s exhaust system has come a long way from the old days of exhaust pipes and mufflers. Today, the exhaust system is safety and emissions control rolled into one. Have your car’s exhaust system inspected regularly and check it immediately if you suspect any problems.
What Does It Do?
The exhaust system routes dangerous exhaust gas from the engine out and away from the car to keep from affecting the occupants. Next, the exhaust system reduces exhaust noise from the engine. The catalytic converter reduces the level of harmful pollutants in the exhaust. Finally, the oxygen sensors mounted in the exhaust system monitor the level of exhaust gases to maintain efficient engine operation and to monitor the converter’s operation.
Typical Wear and Tear
Maintain a safe car with regular exhaust system checks. Factors the affect replacement requirements include:
- Driving habits (short trips take their toll on exhaust system life)
- Road conditions (salt, road spray, bumps)
- Vehicle type
- Age of exhaust system parts
Symptoms
- Loud noise
- Rattling noise when starting accelerating or braking
Your car’s exhaust system consists of:
- One of more mufflers
- One of more oxygen (O2) sensors
- One or more catalytic converters
- Exhaust pipe
