The exhaust system's job is to remove the gases generated by combustion. As these dangerous and toxic gases move through the system, they're converted into harmless gases and finally expelled through the tailpipe. Exhaust system problems can develop over time due to wear and tear or damage and need repair ASAP. As your Ford dealership, we'd like you to know a few signs you need to visit us for an exhaust system repair.
Engine Shuts Down
If your engine suddenly shuts down or stops within seconds of starting, you could have a blocked catalytic converter. The catalytic converter is connected to the exhaust system and converts dangerous engine gases into harmless ones using intense pressure, chemical reactions, and extreme heat. The conversion process produces carbon, which can build up and block the converter.
A blocked converter prevents gases from leaving the exhaust, and they're forced back into your engine. These gases increase pressure inside the engine, and this pressure can force the engine to shut down. You'll also smell a strong fuel odor due to the gases collecting in the engine bay. We can fix this problem by removing the blockage, and the exhaust will work normally again.
Banging Noises Under Your Ford
If you hear a banging noise when driving that disappears when you speed up, you could have an exhaust problem. The strange noises are caused by a loose section of the exhaust pipe hitting the underside of your Ford. The exhaust pipe consists of several sections, starting with the exhaust manifold, then the downpipe, front pipe, catalytic converter, muffler, and tailpipe.
Hangers are spaced underneath your Ford, holding the exhaust pipe sections in place so they can't move or vibrate. As time passes, one or more hangers can loosen or break. If this happens, the loose section of the exhaust will bang against the underside of your vehicle. The sounds cease when you accelerate as the speed forces the loose section against your vehicle and holds it there. We'll check the hangers and replace any damaged ones.
Rusted Exhaust
Rust is dangerous for all metal, as it will eat through and rapidly destroy it. The exhaust is potentially vulnerable to rust due to its location under your vehicle, as it's exposed to water, mud, and snow. Rust becomes a threat if you regularly drive short distances.
When you drive short distances, the exhaust doesn't get hot enough to cause water to evaporate. Any water left behind can cause rust to start, and a rusting exhaust will release dangerous gases that could enter the cabin. We'll examine your exhaust and replace any rusted sections.
If you have an exhaust problem, schedule a Ford service appointment today at Mid-State Ford in Summerville, WV.
