The exhaust system is there to get rid of the fumes your vehicle creates during combustion. This occurs with the help of your catalytic converter and some piping. But, just like other components in your car, the exhaust can develop issues such as a leak. The following are a few symptoms associated with an exhaust leak:

Noises. You might hear a few noises coming from your vehicle, especially when you turn on your car. You might hear ticking or tapping sounds coming from your engine if the leak is close to your engine.

The noise could also sound like a hissing sound, which usually indicates the leak is around the catalytic converter. These sounds occur as gases and air enter and exit your exhaust system.

Escaping Fumes. As mentioned earlier, the exhaust pipes are there to expel fumes coming from your engine's combustion. Some fumes are vexing, but other fumes like carbon monoxide are odorless and dangerous. The following are a few symptoms associated with carbon monoxide exposure:

• Headaches
• Dizziness
• Weakness
• Chest pains
• Confusion
• Vomiting

Increased Gas Consumption. Your car might start creating an air-rich mixture that will force your engine to use more gasoline to compensate. That means you will run out of gasoline quicker, and you might even start smelling unused gasoline from your exhaust pipe. This usually only happens when the exhaust leak is near the manifold.

Irregular Vibrations. There may be strange vibrations due to the fumes exiting the exhaust pipes incorrectly. The intensity of the vibrations could vary, but you will feel these vibrations on your wheel and on the gas pedal. The vibration will be strongest during acceleration, which is when your car pushes fumes out of the engine the most.

Acceleration Noises. Remember that fumes are pushed through your exhaust system the strongest during acceleration? So you will hear the leak more prominently during acceleration. The sound will resemble a low rumble, which can vary in intensity depending on the size of the leak.

Talk to your auto care specialist to help you find the exhaust leak. Make sure you tell your mechanic about some of the things you have noticed, like the sounds. Remember that the type of sounds and other symptoms can help him or her find the exhaust leak faster, and most mechanics work by the hour. If you're looking for a reputable auto repair shop, visit Blue Valley Garage.