What does the exhaust do?

The exhaust is a component made up out of several parts that channels the exhaust gases from the engine's cylinders into the air. Typically, a full exhaust system will consist out of an exhaust manifold, downpipe, exhaust pipes, an exhaust silencer (or back box) and a catalytic converter. The exhaust parts are held to the car with exhaust mountings (sometimes rubber mountings, whilst the parts are sealed to one another with exhaust gaskets.

When should you consider replacing the exhaust manifold?

The exhaust manifold is subjected to extreme heat changes, as exhaust fumes heat up the manifold when the engine is running putting the manifold under a large amount of stress. When the engine is turned off the manifold cools down with the engine, sometimes rapidly, at which moment the manifold contracts. After years of use it can be that the manifold will start to show cracks because of this process, moreover this process is usually accelerated by coolant or oil dripping on the manifold (due to leaks in the engine or ancillary components).

If manifold issues are identified it should be checked out to find the root cause of the problem as soon as possible, as damage to the exhaust manifold can affect engine performance. Sometimes it can be that the manifold needs replacing, at other times it can be that a replacement of the exhaust manifold gasket is required.

When does an exhaust pipe need replacing?

Every car (with an internal combustion engine) has an exhaust pipe, some cars with bigger engines will have multiple exhaust pipes to transport the exhaust fumes out of the car. As exhaust pipes run underneath the car they are directly exposed to the elements. As such exhaust pipes are relatively prone to wear and often rust. Of course damage can occur as well if the exhaust pipe touches the road, when driving too fast over speed humps for example.

Exhaust pipes usually consist of several parts like a down pipe, a centre exhaust pipe and a rear exhaust pipe. All the parts are connected with an assortment of exhaust gaskets. If you identify problems with your exhaust, for example when it makes a lot of noise or because it is rusty it is worth getting it inspected by a mechanic. In some cases a mechanic can advise that an exhaust pipe replacement is needed.

When does the exhaust silencer need changing?

The exhaust silencer (or exhaust back box) is a part of the exhaust fitted at the end of the exhaust the main exhaust pipe. Its function is to reduce the amount of noise the car makes through its exhaust pipe. The exhaust silencer, like the rest of the exhaust system, is fitted underneath the car and is therefore more prone to wear than most parts, it can easily rust or be damaged. If the part does not function properly anymore the exhaust silencer might need replacing. If you are unsure whether it needs replacing we would always suggest to get a professional mechanic to assess the problem first.

How do you know there is something wrong with the Exhaust?

• When the exhaust makes a lot of noise, or more noise than usual.
• When you can notice a drop in performance (if the car does not rev as freely as before).
• When there is a hole in one of the exhaust's parts.
• When the exhaust appears to be 'blowing' out in areas.
• When the car vibrates excessively.
• When the car fails an emissions test.

What happens during an Exhaust replacement?

• Mechanic will inspect the exhaust.
• If the exhaust is damaged (cracked, rusted through etc.), the mechanic will replace the necessary part.
• Mechanic will, if necessary, also replace the exhaust gasket(s).
• Mechanic will advise if other parts need to be replaced.
• Mechanic will again check for any exhaust leaks and test drive the car.

How much does an Exhaust repair cost?

The cost of an exhaust repair depends on your car and what exhaust parts need to be replaced. Find out what you could save by having your exhaust repaired by ClickMechanic, by selecting your car at the top of this page!