The exhaust system is bound to run into some common problems over time.You can usually tell if there is a problem with your exhaust system, as there are some clear warning signs which include:

The exhaust drags on the ground or rattles

There are louder than usual exhaust sounds

There is an unusual smell coming from the exhaust

Rust Damage

The most frequent way an exhaust is damaged or has wear and tear is due to rust, which can cause many different problems. If the rust problem is severe, it may even lead to structural damage or cause a complete exhaust failure.

In the most extreme cases, an exhaust pipe can be so damaged or corroded that it will come loose, and drag on the road as you drive.

Exhaust Fact: Going on many short journeys in your vehicle can lead to accelerated exhaust erosion. After you go on a short drive, the water vapour cools. Then it turns back into a liquid. This causes a higher chance than usual of rust formation in your exhaust.

Exhaust manifolds are easily prone to damage from a few different ways.

Firstly, exposure to cycles of extreme pressure, and heat. This leads to the exhaust manifold being so worn out, that it can no longer withstand the heat. When this happens, cracks start to form on the manifold. Over time, these cracks can then turn into small holes which is enough to cause a total failure.

Secondly, the exhaust system hangers or mountings may break. This leads to the exhaust manifold experiencing extra pressure, which it has not been designed to withhold.

Oxygen Sensor Common Problems

Over time, as oxygen sensors become worn, they will give less accurate measurements.

It’s wise to replace faulty oxygen sensors as soon as you notice a problem. They are vital for fuel economy, and if not working correctly, can lead to a considerable amount of money due to extra petrol costs.

Catalytic Converter Common Problems

Catalytic converters can become choked or blocked. You will be able to tell if your catalytic converter is blocked due to the following:

– a noticeable lack of power with your car

– noticing heat from the floor of your car

– a sulphur smell (commonly likened to the smell of rotten eggs).

Diesel Particulate Filter Common Problems

Over time, DPF’s can become clogged. In severe cases, they may need replacing. DPF’s go through a regeneration process. This tries to clear out any soot. But, for the process to be successful, it requires specific driving conditions. If conditions aren’t ideal, then there is a possibility it may become clogged beyond what the engine management can clean, although this is rare.

The most common cause of clogged DPF problems is by driving a diesel vehicle a short distance without the engine having time to heat up properly. To stop this, additives can be added to your fuel.

Otherwise, you can take your vehicle for a long drive on a freeway. You will need to hold the engine at a higher RPM than usual (by using a lower gear than you usually would, while still driving at the speed limit).Doing this can help for the DPF to begin the cleaning and regeneration cycle.

What if the DPF is already blocked?

Then you can use Diesel Particulate Filter Cleaner. Add the contents of an entire bottle to a full tank of diesel. The formula is highly concentrated and effective. It has been designed to be used when your vehicle’s dashboard displays the amber DPF warning light.

Muffler Common Problems

The vehicle will sound louder or noticeably different if the silencer is damaged. You can work out if the muffler is damaged by inspecting it. Does it have holes or rust? If you find any rust, it may mean there is a bigger problem within the muffler.