One of the things that might happen if your exhaust manifold cracks is the check engine light may turn on. This is because the cracked manifold causes other problems that will leave system sensors with no choice but to report error codes to the engine control unit, which is the main computer chip in your vehicle. Hightech Automotive advises that an illuminated CEL is just one sign that your exhaust manifold has cracked. We are going to list the other signs below.
Sputtering Performance
Another thing you will notice is that your engine’s performance will start to sputter. This is because the vehicle’s exhaust leaks out of the crack in the exhaust manifold and fills up the engine with exhaust gases. These gases increase the air in the engine and affect its ability to produce combustion. Consequently, your engine will start to lag and sputter while you are driving.
Reduced Fuel Economy
These engine performance problems will create another problem: A reduction in your fuel efficiency. This can become a huge problem if you are living on a tight budget, especially with gas prices as high as they are these days. Unfortunately, the engine cannot run efficiently when there is a leak in the exhaust manifold. Consequently, you will see a reduction in the fuel mileage.
Tapping or Hissing Noises
If you are having both of the problems listed above, we recommend that you listen carefully to your engine after you have started your vehicle. The exhaust manifold can make noise as the exhaust escapes from the cracks. In some cases, this noise is temporary because the manifold expands as it heats up and seals the crack. Listen for hissing, tapping, or popping sounds while the engine is cold.
Strong Burning Smells
If the exhaust manifold does not seal the crack and the engine fills with scorching exhaust, you will start to smell extremely hot odors coming from the engine. In addition to the hot smell, your engine will also overheat. This is because the exhaust is making the engine’s parts too hot.
Strong Exhaust Smells
Finally, your vehicle’s ventilation system can also draw in the exhaust that is in the engine and pull it through the vents into the cabin of your automobile. When this happens, you will smell your vehicle’s exhaust, even if the windows are closed. Stop driving the automobile if you can smell the exhaust.
Call Hightech Automotive in Forest City, NC, today if you are having any of the problems discussed in this blog post with your automobile.