Exhausts and Catalytic Converters
The exhaust system is one of the hardest working components on your vehicle. It is constantly in use whilst the engine is running, An exhaust system on most vehicles usually comprises of four sections:
• Manifold
• Front Downpipe
• Centre Section
• Rear silencer box
All vehicles registered after 1993 are fitted with a catalytic converter. The most common section to become defective is the rear silencer as moisture gathers inside the box and attacks the metal. Corrosion from the inside resulting in holes causes the exhaust to blow. A defective exhaust means the vehicles fails the MOT test. It also causes excessive noise; thereby rendering the vehicle illegal which could lead to a fixed penalty fine. An unchecked exhaust may also result in fumes entering the car, which can lead to headaches, sickness and drowsiness.
Catalytic converters are now fitted to all cars to remove harmful pollution from the exhaust gases. It fits on the exhaust system and looks on the outside like a typical silencer box. Sensors controlled by the engine management system, control the gases entering and leaving the catalytic converter. The catalytic converter effectiveness is measured by testing the exhaust gas emissions. This is an important part of the MOT and service requirements on all cars today. The catalytic converter can be damaged if the engine is not properly tuned and excess fuels or oils enter the component.