Exhaust pipe
Unpleasant fumes are not good at the wheel, for you when you are driving, or for your car. And if exhaust gases are not escaping properly, it threatens the operation of the engine, and the gases can also penetrate inside the car. The exhaust system is responsible for ensuring all goes well.
WHY IS THE EXHAUST SYSTEM IMPORTANT?
The exhaust system is located beneath the vehicle, and is essential for the correct functioning of your car, as well as encouraging driving which is more considerate of the environment, as it transforms the gases expelled from your vehicle. It consists of the exhaust pipe, the catalyser and, where applicable, the diesel particulates filter, among other components.
Sudden changes of temperature, snow, rain and corrosion caused by salt and water have a direct effect on its condition. This tends to reduce the performance of your car, increasing noise levels from the engine and fuel consumption. Any problems with the car's exhaust or catalyser is harmful to the environment and may also harm you and the other occupants of your car: harmful gases can penetrate the car's interior.
An important issue you need to remember: any malfunction in the car’s exhaust pipe or catalyser could mean it does not pass its MOT.
WHEN SHOULD I SERVICE THE EXHAUST SYSTEM?
At First Stop we recommend servicing it every 3-6 years, depending on the mileage and make of car. It is recommended to replace the car’s catalyser every 80,000 -100,000 km.
If you notice black smoke coming from the exhaust pipe, the car losing power and the engine frequently cutting out, this means there may be an obstruction or a crack in the exhaust system.
If you hear metallic sounds or notice vibration under the car, or the steering wheel or gear stick vibrate as the car is slowing down, there is probably a crack or break , or part of the system has become detached.
WHY SERVICE THE EXHAUST PIPE
- Avoids loss of power and restriction of exhaust from the engine
- Cuts polluting gas emissions
- Helps ensure proper fuel consumption
- Reduces engine noise
FAQs
HOW DO I KNOW WHEN TO REPLACE THE EXHAUST PIPE?
When you notice in the rear view mirror excess smoke or smoke of an abnormal colour coming from the exhaust.
ADVICE IF YOU NOTICE BLACK SMOKE: Once a fortnight, take a trip of some 10 km, at around 80 km/hr, in a low gear.
ADVICE IF YOU NOTICE WHITE SMOKE: Cross your fingers and go to First Stop. RIGHT NOW!
ADVICE IF YOU NOTICE BLUE SMOKE: Check oil levels regularly, and if you find these are low, or fall regularly over time, go to First Stop, because your car may be losing oil and the problem can be solved by changing the faulty parts of pistons and valves, or of the turbo boost.
ADVICE IF YOU NOTICE GREY SMOKE: Leave it with First Stop.