Updated August 16, 2024
Emissions from a car’s engine need a place to go. The exhaust system helps with the process.
It runs from a manifold on the engine through a catalytic converter and a muffler to reduce the engine noise and push exhaust to the back of the vehicle.
A variety of problems can appear across these different components and others that make up the system. We keep an eye out for safety issues when performing the Virginia State Inspection.
Our technicians also check the exhaust during oil changes. While working on a vehicle, they are able to take pictures and write notes through digital inspections. An inspection report is then sent to customers, who can view them via email or text.
What inspectors look for
Virginia safety inspectors want to make sure that a vehicle’s exhaust system is running properly.
Exhaust system
Loose, broken and missing exhaust hangers and brackets are some items they look for.
Emission parts — such as catalytic converters — are necessary, in order to pass the Virginia State Inspection. They decrease air pollution by changing the exhaust emission a car produces.
Inspectors also ensure that bolts on the intake manifold aren’t broken, which can result in exhaust leaks.
Exhaust clamps, flex pipes, mufflers, exhaust pipes, O2 sensors and tailpipes are on the checklist, as well. The opening for the tailpipe shouldn’t be pinched.
All exhaust system parts must be secured.
We worked on a Ram 1500 that was in need of exhaust repairs. The truck had a loose and rusted exhaust clamp and two exhaust hangers that were broken off where the exhaust pipes split. One hanger that had broken off at the exhaust pipe had created a hole.
A vehicle will fail the Virginia State Inspection if it has any exhaust leaks. More information about fixing exhaust leaks can be found in this article we wrote.
Other exhaust system problems
Certain vehicles have flex connections and spring bolts at junctions. If they become rusted or don’t move, it might cause pipes to break. The spring bolts breaking could lead to the exhaust falling down and dragging on the ground or getting ripped off.
Rusty exhaust hanger on a Jeep Compass
One problem that drivers don’t always see may occur when backing into a parking spot. If they hit a curb protector or concrete barrier, it can catch the exhaust pipe and bend it.
This restricts the exhaust, which might give you some engine running problems. It can also impact your gas mileage, because you’re pressing the gas more to push the exhaust out.
Some people like the look of chrome tips or carbon fiber tips, which are sometimes held on with two or three screws. The tip could fall off, due to the screws rusting.
Other exhaust system problems include the exhaust hangers rusting as well as the hangers and rubber insulators breaking.
Exhaust system maintenance
Exhaust leak on a Honda Element
As part of our oil change process, we make sure the exhaust isn’t hanging down or starting to develop rust holes.
A lot of mufflers have a drain hole that can be mistaken for an exhaust leak. This hole helps release moisture. If you see a hole somewhere else, that’s probably a problem.
Another unique feature on some vehicles is a shield that’s welded or bolted on catalytic converters. Over time, the shield may rust and start rattling. You might be able to address this problem by putting a clamp around it.
However, you don’t want to rip the shield off to get rid of the noise, because it acts as a heat barrier between the bottom of the car and the catalytic converter or a hot part of the exhaust. So, it’s a good idea to replace them or make sure they’re secure.
Steve’s Auto Repair & Tire is an authorized Goodyear tire dealer located in Woodbridge, Virginia. Automotive repair services are performed on all makes and models, including BMW and Mercedes. Services include oil changes, brakes, alignments, inspections, and computer engine diagnostics.
