If you have ever been driving through Saint John and noticed your car sounding louder than usual, or heard a strange rattle underneath, chances are it has something to do with your exhaust system.
Many drivers brush it off, thinking it is just noise, but your exhaust does a lot more than keep things quiet. It protects you and your family from harmful fumes, helps your engine run efficiently, and keeps you from failing that motor vehicle inspection we all know is part of life in New Brunswick.
The tricky part is that exhaust problems often start small. A little rattle or an odd smell may not seem urgent, but if you ignore them, they can quickly become costly repairs or even safety risks. Here are the most common signs that your exhaust system needs attention.
1. A Rattling or Clunking Noise
One of the most common complaints is a rattling sound from underneath the car. This could be a loose heat shield or part of the exhaust pipe coming loose. Left alone, it can break free completely, causing bigger damage and even creating a road hazard.
2. Louder Than Normal Engine Noise
If your car suddenly sounds like it belongs at the Miramichi Fall Brawl, that is not a good sign. A hole or crack in the exhaust pipe or muffler can make your vehicle much louder. Beyond the noise, it usually means fumes are not being directed safely away from your car.
3. A Strange Smell in the Cabin
Your exhaust is designed to carry harmful gases away from you. If you smell fumes inside the car, it could mean a leak somewhere in the system. This is a serious safety concern because carbon monoxide is colourless and odourless, and it can make you sick before you even realize what is happening.
4. Reduced Fuel Efficiency
Your exhaust system works hand in hand with your engine. If it is not functioning properly, your vehicle has to work harder, and you will notice more frequent trips to the pump. Around Saint John, where fuel prices seem to climb higher every year, that is an expense you do not want to add.
5. Visible Rust or Holes
With all the salt on our winter roads, rust is no stranger to Saint John drivers. If you spot rust or visible holes along the exhaust pipe or muffler, it is time to have it checked. What looks like surface rust can quickly eat through and create bigger problems.
6. Failed or Failing Inspections
If you are due for your New Brunswick motor vehicle inspection and your car is running loud, leaking fumes, or showing visible damage in the exhaust, there is a good chance it will not pass. Getting ahead of the issue before inspection time can save you the stress and the re-test fee.
Why You Should Not Wait
Exhaust problems might start as a rattle or a bit of extra noise, but they can put your health, your wallet, and even your safety at risk. The longer you wait, the bigger the repair bill can get.
At Ray Roach Service Center, we have been keeping Saint John drivers safe since the 70s. We know what salt, hills, and harsh winters can do to a vehicle, and we will give you an honest assessment of your exhaust system. Whether it is a simple repair or a replacement, we will make sure your car is safe, efficient, and quiet again.
So if you have heard that rattle or noticed a strange smell, do not put it off. Swing by or give us a call. We will get you fixed up in no time, and you can drive with confidence knowing your car is safe for you and your family.
