Can leaking exhaust systems cause a fire?

 Exhaust System is much more complex than just a muffler. It includes many components including the exhaust manifold, absorption pipe, catalytic converter, resonator and a muffler connected to the tailpipe. All together, these components play an important role in keeping your vehicle running smoothly and quietly.


An exhaust leak is close to the floorboards of the vehicle and the heat that results from the hot exhaust gas start a fire between the interior carpet of the car and the body panels. If by chance the vehicle also has a fuel leak, the hot exhaust can also act as an ignition agent and cause a fire as well. In situations where the exhaust system is leaking at the exhaust manifold in the engine compartment, a fire can start in the wiring and cause a fire under the hood. Have your vehicles exhaust system and muffler inspected regularly for signs of wear and damage to help reduce your chances of a car fire.

 

 

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How Do You Detect Problems With The Exhaust System?

The simplest way to detect an issue with your exhaust system is by ear. If your vehicle suddenly starts to sound different one day - often louder or more 'harsh' - then there is likely an issue with your exhaust system. If you hear a rattling sound from beneath the vehicle, that could also indicate an exhaust problem.

 

Signs to Replace or Repair Exhaust System

  • Decrease in Fuel Efficiency.
  • Odd vibrations coming from the steering wheel or gas pedal.
  • Increased in Engine's noise.

 

Benefits of a Healthy Exhaust System

Having a healthy exhaust system provides many benefits, such as:

  • To maintain energy performance and fuel efficiency
  • helps to keep the engine noise at a minimum
  • Turns any dangerous chemicals from exhaust fumes into non-harmful ones.

 

 

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What makes up my car's Exhaust System?

 

Exhaust Manifolds

a component of the exhaust system consisting of a collection of tubes, usually of cast iron, that channel the exhaust gases from the cylinders of an engine to the rest of the exhaust system.

 

Oxygen Sensor

The oxygen sensor of your car measures the amount of oxygen in the exhaust gasses that exit the engine. It sends real-time data about the amount of unburnt oxygen in the exhaust system to the engine's computer to determine the correct air-to-fuel ratio for the car's engine.


Exhaust Pipe

it’s ideal not to have your exhaust gases pump directly underneath your car, filling your cabin with fumes. You’ll need some pipes to route the air elsewhere.

 

Catalytic Converters

This vital part of your exhaust system converts harmful carbon monoxide and hydrocarbons into water vapor and carbon dioxide. Some catalytic converters also reduce harmful nitrogen oxides.

Muffler 

The muffler may not seem essential to your car’s exhaust system, but all of your neighbors are happy you have it. That’s because the one thing that keeps your car running quietly is the muffler. Since the combustion process is a series of small explosions that create a lot of noise, your muffler helps quiet the sound.

A hole in the exhaust pipe can disrupt all of these processes, as it allows exhaust fumes to escape prematurely, causing a leak in harmful toxins, increased noise, and decreased engine pressure.

 

Is it important to have Exhaust System replaced or  repaired by a professional mechanic? 

While not every car must be taken to a professional mechanic for exhaust repairs, most cars benefit greatly from professional service. At Modern Day Muffler & Brakes, we are trained professionals on all exhaust and mufflers types. Meaning the likelihood is greater your vehicle will not suffer any further damage. Talk with our mechanic, schedule an appointment today and get a no risk quote for your needed exhaust system repairs.