Symptoms of an Exhaust Leak

The purpose of an exhaust system is to reduce emissions produced by your vehicle and make them less harmful before they are transferred out of the tailpipe and into the atmosphere.

If you have an exhaust system that’s not working properly, the toxic gases from the emissions can get inside your vehicle and threaten the lives of everyone there.

Since these deadly gases are odorless and invisible, you won’t see them or notice them. You will just inhale the gases which will make you sick and can even lead to your death.

That is why you must learn to recognize the symptoms of a malfunctioning exhaust system and then have it repaired as soon as possible.

Common Exhaust Leak Symptoms

Below five of the most common symptoms of a leak in your exhaust system:

#1 – Noise That Gets Louder

When you start up the engine and hear an increasingly loud noise coming from around the engine, it is often the telltale symptom of an exhaust manifold gasket leak.

Remember that a gasket lies in between the piping of the exhaust manifold and the engine block. This gasket is constantly heated and cooled just like the piping.

So, if you don’t see a crack or leak coming from the piping, then check the gasket to see if there’s a flaw there.

#2 – Vibrating Gas Pedal

Anytime there is even a tiny leak, the car will vibrate. But if the leak is big, the vibrations will be bigger as well.

You will first begin to notice these vibrations coming from the gas pedal. If you don’t do anything about it, the vibrations will be felt on the steering wheel. Finally, the floorboards will vibrate.

#3 – Bad Fuel Efficiency

If you notice that your vehicle requires more gas than usual, then it could be due to a leaky exhaust system. These leaks make it harder for your engine to perform which, in turn, lowers your fuel efficiency.

#4 – Unusual Noise When Accelerating

Place your foot onto the gas pedal and pay attention to any noises that don’t seem right. If you hear sounds that seem like air leaking out or even whistling, then you obviously have a problem.

Only use this sign if you’ve already experienced another symptom and are trying to verify your suspicions.

However, it is hard for most people to tell the difference between different engine sounds, exhaust sounds, or even a vacuum hose leak. Not only that, but strange engine noises could be due to other kinds of engine problems as well.

#5 – Unusual Odor

Not all exhaust fumes are odorless, just carbon monoxide. If you have a leaky exhaust manifold, you will notice a very strong odor in the air. If the odor persists, then it is clearly harmful exhaust emissions that you don’t want to breathe in for very long.

Therefore, take your vehicle to an auto repair shop asap and have them verify the problem and then fix it. Make sure you drive with your windows open. Don’t take any chances with carbon monoxide because it can be lethal.