It can start with something as nominal as a slight sputtering sound, building quickly into a low growling, soon escalating to a racket only comparable to a dozen Harley Davidson motorcycles revving simultaneously. This is my friend the sound of an exhaust leak, but is there a way to diagnose a leak before it begins shaking the neighbors windows? The first thing to realize when diagnosing an exhaust issue is to know what the exhaust system is designed to do. The most important function is to act as conduit to expel harmful byproduct from burned fuel, which filters and also muffles the noise level. The catalytic converter acts like a filter absorbing as much of the harmful remnants before releasing them into the air. The tubing is used to direct the fumes away from the driver and passengers releasing it somewhat safely into the air from the rear of the vehicle. The last part, dubbed the “muffler” is the big oval unit that is only a foot or so from the rear end and is designed to silence the noisy exhaust. 1.) Visually we can see some indication that a leak is apparent by seeing any unusual exhaust smoke. Billowing smoke like a large cloud can be a precursor to an exhaust leak and you should begin inspecting the pipe, silencer and manifold area. Another indicator that can be seen from inside on your gages is a sharp temperature increase, since problems with the exhaust system can greatly affect the vehicle performance. 2.) Random sounds like thumping, clanking or other rattling noises is a good indication that the last bump, curb, or dip in the road did more than just skip your favorite CD. Nothing is worse than hearing that awful metal against asphalt scraping noise after a part of your exhaust system has become undone or broken off. 3.) Strangely enough most never consider a small amount of water or dampness forming underneath the rear of your car to be abnormal, but this very well could be an early warning sign that a hole or leak is lurking somewhere in your system. Water found under the rear of your car when the air conditioner is not in use is a guaranteed sign of immediate exhaust issues. If you suspect a problem in your exhaust system, than you can either head straight to the local muffler shop, or you can do a little investigating first. 1.) With a small hammer give a few taps to the pipe or muffler, hearing particles rattling within is a really good sign it is time for a replacement. 2.) If possible raise the vehicle with either a jack or hoist, check for pockets of rust, cracks or other breaks. Some holes are too small to be seen and you can try using soapy water to find pinholes or small fissures. The liquid will come to a bubble as air is forced through. You can do the temporary fix like patching, cementing or using an exhaust repair kit, but either way it is best to be safe and get it looked at as soon as possible. If you suspect a leak, drive with all the windows cracked open to let sufficient venting, and try not to use the car’s internal air fans. It is more likely that the internal vents will suck up the carbon monoxide gas from underneath and the cold or hot air might be a carrier of the poisonous gas. Exhaust systems should be maintained and inspected on regular intervals for the sake of the environment and your vehicles life expectancy. Avoiding a problem like an exhaust issue is not only unfair to the people around you being subjected to the thunderous roar, but it is also could be a very dangerous game of Russian roulette. Drive safe; drive smart, and happy motoring! Category:Home › Autos • Will the trend toward economy-size car models lead Americans back to buying smaller-sized cars? — part 2 • You should never use after-market auto parts when maintaining or fixing your car • Should a new car be rust-proofed? • Will the trend toward economy-size car models lead Americans back to buying smaller-sized cars? — part 1 • Five safest cars in North America • How to ensure your teen drives safely after getting a license • Pros and cons of using an hydrogen generator for your car • DIY automotive maintenance: How to change the oil