Auto Expert: What can you do to make your Exhaust System Last?

A couple of weeks ago, we went through the different parts of the exhaust system. In this entry, we’re going straight to business and talk about the things you can do to make your exhaust system last.

We all know that your car’s exhaust system plays a crucial role in ensuring that your car runs smoothly.  By maintaining it well, you’ll be able to do your part in reducing your carbon footprint. And we all know from the last entry that the exhaust system is constantly exposed to toxic chemicals, so it’s important that you take the necessary steps to make sure that the whole system is in excellent condition.

The good news is, the exhaust system is designed and built to last for a very long time. There’s really no saying for how long exactly, but a lot of factors can affect its durability over time. Like the metal parts can be susceptible to corrosion due to constant exposure to high heat. Or if you live in an environment with extreme weather conditions, your exhaust system might constantly be forced to work harder that it should. You should probably check right now if your exhaust system is covered by a long warranty. Cause once the system breaks down, that warranty could potentially save you a lot of money in the long run.

In the unfortunate event that you start to feel like something’s just not right with your exhaust system, know that the entire system won’t fail spontaneously. It’s really more of a ripple effect than a sudden complete breakdown. Often, it’s the rubber gaskets and hangers that are the first to go because it’s these parts that are most susceptible to cracking and drying due to engine heat. Watch out for warning signs like unusual odors and blowing or flapping noises from your exhaust, especially when your car is on stop.

You should also take the time to check the metal parts for impact damage or corrosion. If you live near the beach, have the underneath of your car washed regularly so that you can prevent any salt buildup that could lead to serious surface corrosion. You might also want to drive a bit more carefully if you notice a lot of impact damage to the metal. For those who haven’t made it a habit to warm up their engines before leaving, now would be the perfect time to get started. Our experts believe that doing just that will help prevent interior corrosion.

The best thing that you can do to make sure that your exhaust system lasts is to get problems fixed immediately. It can be tempting to put it off, but trust us, early detection and repair will save you a lot of money. If you start to hear a constant rattle underneath the engine, or smoke emission seems above normal, call your mechanic at once.

Ever dealt with a broken exhaust system before? Have any tips that you would like to share to our readers? Let us know in the comments section below. Drive safely, everyone!