Although a rare occurrence, Mike’s Automotive can replace the exhaust manifold or gasket if either is leaking. One thing that can crack the exhaust manifold is excess heat, so if you are driving your vehicle when the engine is overheating, you may cause this additional damage. If you notice any of the following problems, you’ve got a cracked manifold or gasket in the engine.
Reduced Performance
One of the first things you will notice is a reduction in your engine’s performance. This is because the leaking manifold is filling the engine with exhaust gases that directly affect its ability to produce combustion. Consequently, the engine will lag, sputter, and struggle to perform.
Reduced Fuel Economy
Instead of saving fuel as it struggles to perform, the engine will burn more fuel. This will leave you heading to the service station more often to fill the tank. Unfortunately, you will continue to have a reduction in the fuel economy until you get the exhaust manifold replaced.
Hot Plastic/Rubber Odors
A definite sign that points to a leaking exhaust manifold or manifold gasket is the odor of hot plastic or rubber in the engine. The exhaust that leaks out of the manifold is extremely hot. So hot, in fact, that it can melt engine parts that are made of rubber or plastic and overheat metal parts.
Strong Exhaust Odors
You may also smell exhaust in the passenger cabin of your vehicle. This is an indication that exhaust is leaking into the engine where it is being picked up by the ventilation system. Do not drive your automobile if you can smell its exhaust. Operating the vehicle will make you sick.
Strange Engine Noises
Another thing to look for, or, in this case, listen for is strange noises coming from the engine when you start your SUV, car, or truck. If you can hear tapping or hissing noises, the exhaust manifold or its gasket is leaking exhaust into the engine. The noise may stop once the manifold gets hot.
Check Engine Warning
Finally, the engine control unit is going to turn on the check engine light because of the problems discussed above. The engine is filled with system sensors that report errors if something is out of the ordinary. Exhaust leaking into the engine is out of the ordinary.
Call Mike’s Automotive in Del City, OK, today if your vehicle is having any of the problems discussed above. If your exhaust manifold is cracked, we can replace it.
