If your car pops when you start the engine, you may have a leak in the exhaust manifold. You may also have a leak in the manifold gasket. The leak may also make a tapping noise or sound as if your engine is hissing. This is just one sign that you need to have the exhaust manifold or gasket replaced. We are going to list additional signs of a leaking exhaust manifold below.
Reduced Performance
There is no way your engine can perform efficiently when the exhaust manifold is leaking. The reason why is that the exhaust is drawn out of the combustion chamber in order for the continued production of combustion. When the manifold or gasket leaks, the exhaust is reintroduced into the engine and can make its way into the combustion chamber. Consequently, your engine will perform poorly.
Reduced Fuel Mileage
You would think that if the engine is lacking and sputtering it would use as much fuel, but it actually uses more fuel. As such, the cracked exhaust manifold will cause an increased consumption of fuel in the engine that will leave you with reduced fuel mileage. Consequently, you will have to fill the tank more often than you normally do until you have the manifold or gasket replaced.
Hot/Burning Odors
You may also end up with burning odors coming from the engine that smell like burning plastic. They may also smell like burning rubber. This is a sign that the exhaust is melting auto parts made from these materials. In addition, the metal parts will get too hot and this will increase your engine’s temperature. Consequently, your engine will overheat as long as the manifold or gasket is leaking.
Strong Exhaust Odors
An engine full of exhaust can easily be transported into the passenger cabin. When this happens, you will detect exhaust odors. As you know, you should never inhale your vehicle’s exhaust because it can be deadly. As such, we recommend that you stop driving your automobile or close off the vents so the exhaust cannot make its way inside the vehicle.
Check Engine Warning
Finally, the engine control unit may opt to turn on the check engine light because of the engine and exhaust system problems discussed above. This is one final warning that something is wrong. In this case, the problem is a cracked manifold or manifold gasket.
There’s no need to worry because we are here to help. Call us today so we can schedule a service appointment for your automobile.
