Friday, December 6, 2013
How to Locate an Exhaust Leak
If your "check engine" light comes on, if your engine ticks or if you smell antifreeze, your vehicle might have an exhaust leak. Whether you do the repairs yourself or take your car to a mechanic, locating the leak helps ensure the repair is made correctly and that you dont overspend. Fortunately, it doesnt take long to locate an exhaust leak.
Instructions
- 1
Let the car cool down. When the engine gets warm, the metal expands, hiding small leaks from view.
2Examine the exhaust system without the engine running to see if any holes or slits are visible. Start at the engine and work your way to the tailpipe. Check each connector because they they are most prone to leakage.
3Check the exhaust manifold. Its possible for the exhaust manifold to become warped and cause a leak. This is more common in older vehicles. A simple hand inspection should tell you if anything feels out of place or if any holes have formed. Check the gasket that connects the manifold to the cylinder head. Its common for that gasket to crack and cause a leak.
4Look for holes in the exhaust pipe, especially where the pipe bends over the rear axle. That portion frequently cracks or leaks. Check rusty spots to see if its just surface rust, or if it goes all the way through the pipe.
5Feel for leaks. Have your helper cover the tailpipe by sticking a piece of metal over it and start the engine. This restricts the flow of exhaust gases and pressurizes the exhaust system. Without touching hot metal, carefully move your hands around the outside of the entire exhaust system to feel for any exhaust fumes coming out of strange places.
6Using a mechanics stethoscope, listen for an exhaust leak. The stethoscope isolates the sound of the engine, making it easier for you to hear escaping exhaust fumes.
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