Exhaust System: The Muffler Tells All!

Is your car starting to perform poorly or loud noises coming from the muffler? Are you worried about the exhaust fumes polluting the air? These are common problems of a leaking exhaust system.

If you are looking for reliable Exhaust Systems Milton-Freewater OR your search can be over with our Wentland Diesel Auto Center Milton-Freewater OR . Also find Oil Changes Milton-Freewater OR  with us.

Here are three main signs to look for indicating your vehicle has a leak in the exhaust system;

• The "check engine" light stays illuminated;
• The engine runs and idles rough; and
• Loud noises coming from the muffler.

You may be able to check your exhaust system yourself to determine if there is a leak, and pinpoint the location and source. Here are some tips that may save you valuable time and money: 

• First, make sure the car is cool while you look under the hood. Because metal expands as it heats up, small leaks will get even smaller, making them difficult to detect.
• Remove the plastic engine cover to inspect the exhaust manifold for cracking or warping. This problem is quite common, especially with older cars.
• Check the gaskets for cracking, another common cause of leaks. You may feel hot air escaping as well as a strong smell of fumes. In older cars, the gasket connecting the manifold to the cylinder head can crack just with everyday wear and tear.
• Check the muffler for rust--whether it is just surface, or if it goes all the way through the metal. Areas weakened by rust often cause leaks.
• Temporarily cover the muffler to force the exhaust through any leaks. Start at the engine and follow the exhaust system all the way to the end, feeling for hot air escaping through the pipe, especially at the connectors, common areas of leaks. The muffler will get hot, so be careful not to touch it.

Following your own inspection, or if you're not comfortable conducting these tests yourself, be sure to have your mechanic take a look. Most auto shops will run these tests free of charge and then be able to recommend the appropriate repair.

Need an inspection of your exhaust system? Contact our ASE Certified Technicians at Wentland Diesel Service by calling 541-938-3875 or go on-line at http://www.wentlanddiesel.com/ for more information. Our auto shop provides truck and car repair, including diesel service, to the vehicle owners in Milton-Freewater, OR, Walla Walla, WA, Pendleton, OR and surrounding areas.