|
We’ve all heard a car or truck in our
Eugene neighborhoods that
needs a new muffler.
But there’s more to the exhaust system than
just the muffler.
The exhaust system has three main functions:
Exhaust gas is poisonous. You don’t want
it getting into the passenger compartment. For example, carbon
monoxide can be deadly. That’s why you should never run your
engine in a closed garage. If you have a
leak in the
exhaust system, exhaust could get into the
passenger cabin and make you sick or even kill you.
If you smell exhaust in the vehicle,
roll down your windows and get it inspected.
You may smell or see exhaust coming from the engine compartment
or under the vehicle if you have a leak. Sometimes the sound
from an exhaust leak is loud and obvious. Sometimes it’s a
ticking sound when you start the engine that goes away as you
drive. That could be a small crack or a
bad fitting
that leaks when it’s cold but seals up when the metal heats and
expands.
Now, let’s address the
environmental issues for our Eugene Oregon communities.
Exhaust gas contains a number of pollutants and
particulates. The catalytic converter scrubs some of
those harmful substances. And diesel vehicles have systems to
deal with soot.
Catalytic converters eventually
wear out and need to be replaced. They’re expensive so
you want to help them last as long as possible by keeping the
fuel system clean and replacing your air filter.
These components need to be tested for function with an
emissions test from time to time.
And that leaves the muffler. The beauty
of getting a
new muffler is that you can suit your taste: Some want
whisper quiet and others like a little rumble. And some like a
roar when they drive down our Eugene OR streets.
|
