Tips

Hot Engine Odors Could Be an Exhaust System Problem

If you smell hot or burning odors coming from your car, truck, or utility vehicle’s engine, it’s possible that you have a cracked exhaust manifold gasket. When this gasket cracks, exhaust fills the engine. The exhaust is scorching hot, so hot that it can melt nearby engine parts that are susceptible to melting. Checkpoint Motors can inspect and repair your vehicle’s exhaust system if it needs it. Aside from hot odors, here are other signs of exhaust system problems.

Decreased Power

If your exhaust system is clogged or leaking, there will be a decrease in the engine’s power. Unfortunately, the engine will not be able to generate normal power levels because it is filled with exhaust gases. A clog will push the gases back into the combustion chamber. A leak will fill the entire engine with exhaust gases. This directly affects your power and acceleration.

Fuel Odors

You may also smell gasoline or diesel fuel inside your automobile. If you do, we recommend you have your vehicle towed to our shop. Don’t try to drive it if you can smell fuel. Inhaling the odors can be dangerous to your health. In fact, if you are inhaling carbon monoxide, it could kill you. Most often, you will be able to smell the gasoline or diesel fuel if your exhaust system is leaking into the cabin.

Loud Engine Noise

Another sign that your exhaust system needs to be repaired is loud engine noise that cannot be muffled. This is an indication that your muffler has a crack or hole in it. Unfortunately, the muffler will need to be replaced in order to reduce the noise your engine makes. In the case of the cracked exhaust manifold gasket, you may also hear loud hissing or tapping sounds coming from the engine.

Poor Gas Mileage

Getting back to the engine, the performance problems caused by the exhaust system leak or clog will reduce your vehicle’s gas mileage. This is because the excess exhaust that is filling the engine will directly affect how efficiently your engine runs. An inefficient engine burns more fuel.

Tailpipe Damage

Finally, some exhaust system problems are visible. In the case of the tailpipe, it may be dented or damaged, have holes in it, or be hanging too low. It’s important to have the tailpipe replaced if it is showing any signs of damage.

Checkpoint Motors is the best auto service shop in Oregon City, OR, so give us a call today to schedule an appointment for an exhaust system inspection for your automobile.

Photo by Khaligo from Getty Images via Canva Pro
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