How does an exhaust manifold work?
The exhaust manifold is a key part of your car’s exhaust system. It connects directly to the engine and collects the hot exhaust gases produced by each cylinder during combustion. These gases are then funneled into a single pipe, which leads to the catalytic converter, where harmful emissions are reduced.
Because it handles extremely high temperatures and pressure, the exhaust manifold is usually made from strong materials like cast iron or stainless steel.
A properly working manifold helps maintain engine efficiency, reduce engine noise and control harmful emissions
Over time, the exhaust manifold can develop cracks, leaks, or loose fittings, which can cause performance issues, increase noise, or let dangerous fumes escape. That’s why regular inspections and timely repairs are important for both your car’s performance and your safety.
What does an exhaust manifold repair job involve?
If your exhaust manifold is leaking or damaged, a mechanic will follow a step-by-step process to get your exhaust system back in good working order. Here’s what’s typically involved:
- The mechanic will check the exhaust manifold and gasket for cracks, leaks, or other signs of wear.
- If the gasket is damaged, the exhaust manifold may need to be removed to access and replace it. Once the new gasket is fitted, the manifold is carefully reinstalled.
- Other nearby components, like bolts, studs, or heat shields, will be inspected to make sure everything is secure and in good condition.
- After reassembly, the mechanic will check for any remaining leaks and may take the car for a short test drive to confirm the repair was successful.
This thorough process helps ensure your exhaust system is properly sealed, which reduces engine noise, improves efficiency, and keeps emissions under control.
How do I know if I need an exhaust manifold repair or replacement?
Here are some common symptoms to look out for:
- Check engine light – A lit engine warning light can indicate a leak or performance issue in the exhaust system.
- Loss of engine performance – If the engine feels sluggish, struggles to rev, or lacks power, a leaking manifold may be affecting airflow and backpressure.
- Unusual smells or smoke – A burning smell or visible smoke from the engine bay could suggest hot exhaust gases are escaping where they shouldn’t.
- Loud engine noise – A cracked or leaking manifold can cause a ticking or hissing sound, especially when the engine is cold or under load.
- Dirt or soot build-up – If you spot black residue around the manifold area, it could be caused by exhaust leaks.
If you notice any of these signs, it’s best to have your exhaust system checked by a qualified mechanic.
Can an exhaust manifold leak be repaired?
In some cases, yes, an exhaust manifold leak can be repaired, but in most situations, replacement is the safer and more reliable option.
If the leak is caused by a worn gasket, replacing the gasket is often a straightforward fix. Small cracks in the manifold itself can sometimes be welded, but this requires specialist tools and experience — and results may not last, especially if the manifold is made from cast iron.
However, because the exhaust manifold is exposed to extreme heat, pressure, and constant engine vibrations, repairs don’t always hold up over time. That’s why, if the manifold is cracked, warped, or heavily corroded, a full replacement is usually the best long-term solution.
Temporary fixes like sealants or exhaust putties aren’t recommended — they often fail quickly and can pose safety risks. Exhaust leaks can allow dangerous gases like carbon monoxide into the cabin, so it’s important to have the issue checked and resolved by a qualified mechanic without delay.
How do I know if I have a cracked exhaust manifold?
A cracked exhaust manifold often starts with a ticking or tapping noise from the engine bay, especially when starting the car cold. This sound is caused by exhaust gases escaping through the crack before the metal expands and seals it temporarily. You may also notice the engine sounds louder than usual, acceleration feels sluggish, or fuel economy has dropped. In some cases, a strong burning smell under the bonnet may appear if hot gases are leaking onto nearby components.
Visible black soot around the manifold and a check engine light — often related to oxygen sensor or exhaust system faults — are also common signs. If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s best to have your vehicle inspected promptly to avoid further damage.
How hot does an exhaust manifold get?
The exhaust manifold gets extremely hot during normal engine operation, reaching temperatures of 400°C to 600°C, and in some cases even higher under heavy load or aggressive driving.
Because it handles the hot exhaust gases straight from the engine cylinders, it needs to be made from heat-resistant materials like cast iron or stainless steel. This extreme heat is also why cracks, warping, or leaks can occur over time, especially if the manifold is exposed to rapid temperature changes or prolonged stress.
If you suspect an issue with your exhaust manifold, it’s best to let the engine cool completely and have it inspected by a professional, DO NOT TOUCH IT.
Can I drive with a faulty exhaust manifold?
We would not recommend it. Driving with a cracked or leaking exhaust manifold can affect your engine’s performance and pose serious safety risks. The manifold directs harmful gases like carbon monoxide away from the engine, if it’s damaged, those gases can escape before reaching the exhaust system, potentially leaking into the cabin.
You may also notice a drop in power, poor fuel efficiency, or even overheating in severe cases. Ignoring the issue can lead to further engine damage and trigger the check engine light.
For your safety and to avoid more costly repairs down the line, it’s best to have a faulty exhaust manifold inspected and repaired as soon as possible.
How much does an exhaust manifold repair cost?
The cost of repairing or replacing an exhaust manifold typically ranges from £200 to £1000, depending on your vehicle’s make and model, the type of manifold, and the extent of the damage.
What does a ClickMechanic exhaust manifold repair quote cover?
- The cost of the exhaust manifold
- Coming to you
- Fitting of the parts
- Disposal of the old parts (unless you request to keep them)
- VAT (if applicable)
- 12-month parts and labour warranty
Can the exhaust manifold be repaired by a mobile mechanic?
In many cases, yes, a mobile mechanic can repair or replace an exhaust manifold, especially if the issue is a gasket leak or if the manifold is easily accessible.
However, if the repair requires specialist welding, seized bolts, or if access to the manifold is particularly tight (common in some engine layouts), the job may need to be done at a garage. If that’s the case, we offer collection and delivery to carry out the repair in the garage (free if the vehicle is drivable).
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Frequently asked questions about exhaust manifold repair & replacements
Read our answers to questions about exhaust manifold repair costs, symptoms and more.
What does an Exhaust Manifold Gasket do?
The exhaust manifold gasket is a thin layer of material (usually from metal) that is sandwiched in between the exhaust manifold and the engine. It seals this connection, preventing prevents leaks as well as securing the pressure inside the exhaust ports.
What does an exhaust manifold repair involve?
- Mechanic will inspect the exhaust manifold and the gasket.
- If necessary, the mechanic will replace the gasket.
- Replacing the gasket entails removing the exhaust manifold (and reinstalling it).
- Mechanic will advise if any other parts need to be replaced.
- Mechanic will again check for any leaks around manifold and test drive the car.
Can I do an exhaust manifold replacement myself?
Unless you are a qualified mechanic with the required skills, training and equipment to do the job, we strongly recommend an exhaust manifold replacement is only carried out by a professional mechanic. ClickMechanic can help get you a vetted and local mechanic to carry out the work. Just enter your postcode and your car's registration number at the top of this page and select the work needed to get an instant fixed price up front.
What are the symptoms of a bad exhaust manifold?
- When the 'Check Engine' light is on.
- When the engine doesn't perform as usual (car does not rev freely etc.)
- When dirt has built up around the area of the exhaust manifold.
- When there is a smell or (in extreme cases) smoke coming from the engine bay.
- When the engine makes more noise than usual.
How long does it take to replace an exhaust manifold?
An exhaust manifold replacement usually takes around 2 hours, but can take less or more time. Ultimately, the time that the job will take will depend on a number of factors, like your vehicle's make and model, year, as well as other factors. Select your car at the top of this page for information on job time and cost for your vehicle through ClickMechanic.
How often should I replace an exhaust manifold?
Due to the extreme temperature fluctuations inside the engine (during the combustion cycles the engine cools and heats continuously) it means that the exhaust manifold is especially prone to wear. It can be that the exhaust manifold develops a crack over time or, alternatively a leak can occur due to a broken mounting bolt. All this can lead to reduced performance (as the engine's vacuum is interrupted).
Should you experience problems like those noted earlier it is important to have the exhaust manifold inspected. It could be that, in those cases, the exhaust manifold should be replaced. Always remember to replace the exhaust manifold as and when stipulated in the guidelines set out by your car's manufacturer.
What does an Exhaust Manifold Gasket do?
The exhaust manifold gasket is a thin layer of material (usually from metal) that is sandwiched in between the exhaust manifold and the engine. It seals this connection, preventing prevents leaks as well as securing the pressure inside the exhaust ports.
What does an exhaust manifold gasket replacement involve?
- Mechanic will inspect the exhaust manifold and the gasket.
- If necessary, the mechanic will replace the gasket.
- Replacing the gasket entails removing the exhaust manifold (and reinstalling it).
- Mechanic will advise if any other parts need to be replaced.
- Mechanic will again check for any leaks around manifold and test drive the car.
Can I do an exhaust manifold replacement myself?
Unless you are a qualified mechanic with the required skills, training and equipment to do the job, we strongly recommend an exhaust manifold replacement is only carried out by a professional mechanic. ClickMechanic can help get you a vetted and local mechanic to carry out the work. Just enter your postcode and your car's registration number at the top of this page and select the work needed to get an instant fixed price up front.
What are the symptoms of a leaking exhaust manifold gasket?
- When the 'Check Engine' light is on.
- When the engine doesn't perform as usual (car does not rev freely etc.)
- When dirt has built up around the area of the exhaust manifold.
- When there is a smell or (in extreme cases) smoke coming from the engine bay.
- When the engine makes more noise than usual.
- When there is a ticking noise coming from the engine.
How long does it take to replace an exhaust manifold gasket?
An exhaust manifold replacement usually takes around 2 hours, but can take less or more time. Ultimately, the time that the job will take will depend on a number of factors, like your vehicle's make and model, year, as well as other factors. Select your car at the top of this page for information on job time and cost for your vehicle through ClickMechanic.
How often should I replace an exhaust manifold gasket?
Over time, a gasket can start to leak due to wear. The extreme temperature fluctuations at the exhaust manifold mean it is especially prone to deterioration.
Should you experience problems with the gasket then it is important to have the exhaust manifold inspected. If necessary, the exhaust manifold gasket should be replaced. Always remember to replace the gasket as and when stipulated in the guidelines set out by your car's manufacturer.
How much does it cost to replace an exhaust manifold gasket?
Prices for an exhaust manifold gasket replacement can range from £150 to £200 with an average cost of £170. Ultimately, the cost of an exhaust manifold gasket replacement depends on your car and what parts your car's manufacturer recommends using for the replacement. Find out what you could save by having your exhaust manifold gasket replaced by ClickMechanic by selecting your car at the top of this page!
Can you drive with an exhaust manifold leak?
If you suspect there is a leak or issue on your exhaust manifold or there are concerns about its condition, book an inspection with a professional mechanic as soon as possible, driving the vehicle may lead to further complications.
Can you drive with a bad exhaust manifold gasket?
If you suspect there is any issue with your vehicle's exhaust manifold gasket or there are concerns about its age or condition, book an inspection with a professional mechanic as soon as possible, driving the vehicle may lead to further complications.
Is the exhaust manifold checked during an MOT?
Yes, the MOT tester will check both the exhaust system as well as the emissions coming from the exhaust system. If the manifold is found to have damage such as rust or cracks, the car will fail the MOT test.
Does the exhaust manifold deteriorate with age?
Yes, an exhaust manifold can deteriorate with age as the location of it on the underside of the vehicle makes it prone ot wear and tear due to exposure to moisture, dirt and grime.
Can you drive with a broken exhaust manifold?
You can technically drive with a broken exhaust manifold, however, it is dangerous and also illegal. It can also cause further damage to the exhaust system that can be much more expensive to address if put off. If you're experiencing issues with the exhaust manifold, it's best to get it fixed or replaced as soon as possible.
What is the average life of an exhaust manifold?
The average life of an exhaust manifold is around 100,000 miles but this number can vary depending on multiple factors such as driving habits and environmental conditions. If you notice any corrosion or damage to the exhaust manifold, it is best to have it checked as soon as possible as it's a vital part of the vehicle's exhaust system.
What causes an exhaust manifold to break?
Even a small crack in the manifold, a hole in the manifold, or a leak in the exhaust manifold can cause it to malfunction. The exhaust manifold is exposed to temperate changes as it's heating and cooling constantly which can cause a strain on the structural integrity of the metal over time.
Is a bad exhaust manifold an MOT failure?
Yes, the exhaust can fail the MOT if there's a major leak, or if emissions are over the legal limit and deemed unsafe.
What happens if you don't replace exhaust manifold?
A leaky exhaust manifold can cause loss of power, reduced engine performance and can also cause expensive damage to the engine of the car. If you notice there is a leak or if the car struggles to accelarate, then it is highly recommended to get it checked out by a qualified mechanic to prevent further problems.
Is a faulty exhaust manifold gasket an MOT failure?
Yes, a faulty exhaust manifold gasket lead to an MOT failure if it blows and the leak of exhaust gases is deemed unsafe or leads to emissions issues. The exhaust manifold gasket seals the connection between the manifold and cylinder head to prevent any leakage of exhaust gases.
How much does it cost to replace an exhaust manifold?
On average, a typical exhaust manifold change can vary widely from £150 to over £1000. Ultimately, the cost of an exhaust manifold replacement depends on your car's make and model, your location and the recommended parts for the replacement. Find out what you can save by selecting your car at the top of this page!
Check out the ClickMechanic price for an exhaust manifold repair. See the averages for different makes below. We consolidate industry standard data with millions of data points to give you the most accurate price. These estimates may include Exhaust manifold and Exhaust manifold gasket.
| Name | Average Cost | |
|---|---|---|
| Audi | £576 | Get exact price |
| BMW | £548 | Get exact price |
| Citroen | £520 | Get exact price |
| Ford | £406 | Get exact price |
| Land Rover | £610 | Get exact price |
| Mercedes-Benz | £496 | Get exact price |
| Nissan | £544 | Get exact price |
| Peugeot | £630 | Get exact price |
| Renault | £412 | Get exact price |
| Toyota | £348 | Get exact price |
| Vauxhall | £370 | Get exact price |
| Volkswagen | £536 | Get exact price |
Estimates on average repair costs, such as the above results for an exhaust manifold repair, are based on ClickMechanic's quote data which combines multiple third-party sources. Actual costs may vary. We provide estimates on average repair costs for information only and accept no liability for any inaccuracies or errors. If you think an estimate is incorrect, please contact us to let us know.
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Mechanics that undertake exhaust manifold work
- Auto Pro, Thornton Heath
- Autobase Repair Hub Ltd, London
- Brennan's Vehicle Services Ltd, Waltham Abbey
- SMC Auto Electrics, Chapelhall
- Sevenoaks Auto Village Ltd, Hildenborough
- Southern Vehicle Services, Bognor Regis