Our experts are here to help you understand why a leaking exhaust is a problem, and how to keep your vehicle safe.

Today, the ASE-certified technicians at Christian Brothers Automotive Arnold explain that strange noise coming from the exhaust. Before we explain an exhaust leak, there are a few basics you should know about the exhaust system itself.

How the exhaust system works

Your exhaust system includes a network of pipes, all connected throughout your vehicle. Exhaust first exists the engine, then travels through this system of pipes into the tailpipe.

As exhaust fumes leave the engine, they go through the exhaust manifold, then the catalytic converter. The catalytic convertor (or ‘cat’) burns off many of the toxins, making the fumes safe to leave the car and enter the atmosphere.

Once the exhaust emissions are safe for the environment, they pass through the muffler, which lessens the noise the exhaust system makes and allows for a peaceful drive.

Why your exhaust system wears out over time

Your engine creates and releases a large amount of chemicals, and it’s largely on the exhaust system to break down and contain these toxins. A well-maintained exhaust system should last two to three years, but the exhaust pipes will be sustaining damage during this time.

Outside the car, your exhaust pipes are taking hits from the road, flying debris, road salt and intense weather conditions. Inside the car, the byproducts of the engine’s combustion process begin to eat away at the system designed to contain them. The pipes are constantly wearing down and slowly corroding.

How to recognize a leak in the exhaust system

If a leak is not detected early, your exhaust pipes will eventually become destroyed because of corrosion. If they don’t rust through, the connections between the pipes can still come loose.

When this happens, an exhaust leak occurs. A leak is almost always apparent with a loud, obnoxious sound. There could possibly be drivability issues as well, such as an intermittent fluctuation in power.

If the leak is after the cat, it’s going to be irritating and disrupt your drive. If it occurs before the cat, your exhaust system could be leaking hazardous fumes into the air before they have a chance to be cleared of all toxins.

If you suspect an exhaust leak, call for an appointment immediately. The only way to discover whether the leak occurs before or after the catalytic converter is with an inspection at our Arnold auto repair shop.

The nice difference in Arnold exhaust service

Don’t risk your car’s operation or your family’s health. As soon as you hear your exhaust system begin to rattle or rumble, call our auto repair shop in Arnold for an exhaust system inspection.

Our professional technicians will determine the source of your leak and ensure your car is safe to drive on. To schedule an exhaust check today, call Christian Brothers Automotive in Arnold, Missouri.