The following problems are signs that your vehicle’s exhaust manifold is cracked and leaking. Checkpoint Motors can inspect the manifold and replace it if necessary. Thankfully, a leaking exhaust manifold is a rare occurrence. If you have been driving your engine when it is running too hot, however, you may crack the exhaust manifold, the cylinder block, and the head gasket.
Sluggish Engine Performance
If the exhaust manifold has a crack in it, it will release exhaust gases into the engine. As these gases fill the engine, the engine’s performance will lag. Consequently, the exhaust gases can make it difficult for your vehicle’s engine to produce combustion in the combustion chamber. As such, you will notice sluggish engine performance until you have the exhaust manifold replaced.
Reduction in Fuel Economy
As the engine struggles to run, it will use up the fuel quickly. Unfortunately, this means you will see a noticeable reduction in your automobile’s fuel economy. The engine cannot get good gas mileage if it is not running efficiently. You will need to replace the exhaust manifold to restore the engine’s efficiency.
Burning Engine Odors
You may also notice strong burning odors coming from the engine if the exhaust manifold has a leak. The exhaust gases that are released into the engine are extremely hot. They will overheat the metal engine parts and melt the rubber and plastic parts. As such, your engine will overheat. As we mentioned above, an overheating engine can cause additional and severe damage.
Strong Exhaust Odors
In addition to the burning engine odors, you may also smell your vehicle’s exhaust in the passenger cabin. This can happen if the ventilation system picks up the exhaust gases in the engine and pulls them through into the cabin. You don’t need us to tell you that driving the vehicle while inhaling the exhaust is dangerous and deadly. Pull over and call for a tow if you smell exhaust.
Tapping or Hissing Sounds
Listen carefully when you start your engine to see if you can hear tapping or hissing sounds. If you can, these are the sounds that the exhaust makes as it leaks out of the manifold’s crack. Sometimes, these sounds will go away because the manifold has expanded and sealed crack when it gets hot.
Check Engine Warning
Finally, all of the above will cause your engine control unit to turn on the check engine light. Unfortunately, this light will stay on until you replace the exhaust manifold.
We can do that here at Checkpoint Motors in Oregon City, OR, so give us a call today.
