Beginner’s Guide To Car Exhaust Repair: Warning Signs And Solutions

Timely car exhaust repair is critical, both to protect the environment and your passengers from harmful exhaust, and to keep your vehicle running safely and efficiently.

Unfortunately, according to research by the Ministry of Transportation, the majority of drivers don’t know how to spot, fix, or prevent car exhaust problems, which means most people are either overpaying for service or underperforming on the road.

If you’re among them, don’t worry—your local TIRECRAFT is here to help. Read on to learn some best practices for car exhaust repair, maintenance, and early detection, or contact your local TIRECRAFT to discuss your exhaust issues with an expert.

Save On Car Exhaust Repair: 6 Signs You Need Service ASAP

As with most auto problems, the sooner you detect exhaust issues, the easier (and less expensive) they’ll be to fix.

For this reason, we recommend booking engine and exhaust inspections about once per 24 months or 40,000km of driving. Spending a little on preventative maintenance could save you a lot, both in engine repair fees and daily fuel costs, and each inspection or tune-up will earn you discount dollars via the MyTIRECRAFT Rewards App, so it’s win-win!

Additionally, you should be familiar with the following 6 signs of car exhaust issues, and be ready to book an inspection at the first sign of trouble:

1. Your check engine light is on. Your check engine light can light up for all sorts of reasons, from a loose gas cap to a failing exhaust, so don’t rely solely on the service minder. However, if it lights up at the same time you detect any of the other symptoms shared below, there’s a good chance you need a car exhaust repair or maintenance service.

2. Loud acceleration. If your vehicle suddenly rumbles like a racecar every time you try to accelerate, it may be a sign of an exhaust issue. And even if it’s not, you need to get that fixed—the exhaust noise limit is 95 decibels under Ontario’s Highway Traffic Act, and the fine for exceeding this limit is $110 plus 2 demerit points.

3. Exhaust smell. Left unchecked, a leaking exhaust can put you and your passengers at risk of carbon monoxide poisoning. If you smell more exhaust than usual, it’s time to book a car exhaust repair or maintenance service.

4. Thick smoke from the tailpipe. It is normal for some white “smoke” to drift from the tailpipe (this is actually water vapor), but black smoke is a sure sign of impending exhaust failure. Driving with a smoking tailpipe can also get you in all sorts of trouble, as Ontario drivers are required to report any vehicles they see emitting black smoke from its tailpipe to the Emissions Test Contact Centre. Don’t risk a fine or further damage—contact your local TIRECRAFT to set up an estimate.

5. Vibrations and rattling noises. Heavy vibrations or rattling noises should never be ignored. If your car is shaking or rattling more than usual, it is likely an issue with the exhaust or catalytic converter.

6. Poor fuel efficiency. In order for your vehicle to be fuel-efficient, your exhaust system must be working properly. If you notice your mileage is dropping off and you’re filling up more than usual, it might be time to book an exhaust service.

Get A Free Quote On Car Exhaust Repair: Talk To A TIRECRAFT Tech

To learn more and get a free quote on a car exhaust repair, part replacement, or maintenance service, get in touch with your local TIRECRAFT.

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