How long do exhaust systems last?
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Common car problems include: a flat tire, a dead battery, or an engine that stalls. Vehicle owners may overlook how important an exhaust system is. As cars become more modern and environmentally friendly, we think they are built to last forever. Unfortunately, this is not always the case, especially for your car's exhaust system.
Understanding the Life of Your Exhaust
As a reminder, the purpose of your exhaust system is to keep your vehicle running smoothly, converting harmful gases into safer emissions and reducing noise. It mainly consists of an exhaust manifold, catalytic converter, resonator and muffler, as well as exhaust pipes. Each component has a different function, but they all work together to keep your vehicle running efficiently. The more efficient each component, the better the car.
Car manufacturers design exhaust system components, most of which are made of stainless steel or aluminum coated steel, to ensure they last a long time. However, there is no set timeline to predict their lifespan. Unlike, for example, predicting the need for an oil change or tire rotation, as well as other annual tasks associated with a car. This uncertainty is due to the fact that its durability is affected by many different factors. Exhaust system components endure extremely high temperatures (and frequent temperature swings), and the climate of your location may also play a role.
Because each component plays a role, the entire exhaust system won't fail all at once. Rather, small problems will have a domino effect. For this reason, vehicle owners must pay close attention to their exhaust system.
Causes of Physical Damage to Your Exhaust System
The most frequent breakdowns of the exhaust system occur when rubber gaskets and suspensions are worn out. The car's rubber gasket protects against both liquids and gases, and they are between connected parts, such as between a manifold and a manifold. Exhaust hangers are rubber mounts that hold the exhaust pipe in place. These smaller components may be subject to the greatest changes in temperature and pressure, which accelerates their degradation.
In addition to rubber gaskets and exhaust system hangers, problems can arise with other components. Among these other problematic components, the main culprits are the catalytic converter and muffler. A catalytic converter typically lasts 10 years, and the more you use your car, the faster it will fail. It becomes clogged, contaminated with coolant, or physically damaged. On the other hand, your muffler should last 5 to 7 years. It will also deteriorate from overuse, and also when other components of the exhaust system fail, it hurts the muffler more as it is at the end of the exhaust system.
How do I know if my exhaust needs replacing?
There are common and obvious signs that you need to replace your exhaust system. You should periodically inspect every element of your exhaust system (or have a trusted mechanic do it). But the biggest warning signs include:
- Excessive noise
- Worse performance
- Smell of burning or gas
- Physical damage to components
Is it worth changing the exhaust?
Yes, every vehicle owner should not just replace the exhaust, but replace it in a timely manner. On a small scale, an exhaust problem could mean a rattling sound or gasket corrosion. More broadly, an exhaust problem could mean that your vehicle is releasing dangerous toxic gases into the environment and possibly even into your interior. In addition, a replaced, well-functioning exhaust system contributes to reduced fuel consumption, performance and noise.
Need to replace or upgrade your exhaust? Connect with us
Performance Muffler prides itself on being able to help you with your exhaust repair. You can even get a custom tailpipe and discover all the benefits that come with it. We have been the leading automotive store in Phoenix for over 15 years.
Contact Performance Muffler today for a free quote.
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