What does the exhaust manifold do?
A typical exhaust manifold
The exhaust manifold is a metal exhaust component which varies in size and shape depending on the car’s engine configuration. The purpose of the exhaust manifold is to collect exhaust gases from all of your engine’s cylinders and send the gas towards the catalytic converter, (if you vehicle is fitted with one) where it is cleaned and sent out of the exhaust pipe.
The exhaust manifold is bolted to the cylinder head, and sealed with the exhaust manifold gasket.
Learn more about how the exhaust manifold works >
What causes problems in the exhaust manifold?
Wear over time – The exhaust manifold is exposed to extremely high temperatures, meaning it is susceptible to wear over time. A worn manifold is more likely to leak, crack and function incorrectly.
Leaks and cracks – If the exhaust manifold is leaking, hot exhaust gases can escape, which if they enter the vehicles passenger compartment can be toxic for the driver and the occupants of the vehicle. It can also make a “chuffing noise” which gets louder for lager leaks / cracks.
Sometimes it is the exhaust manifold gasket that cracks / leaks, or the exhaust manifold itself can also crack and leak. Another common please for exhaust leaks is where the exhaust manifold connects to the rest of the exhaust system or catalytic converter (if fitted).
Damaged bolts – Sometimes, the exhaust manifold will leak due a damaged bolt that holds it in place. This often allows the exhaust manifold gasket to develop an exhaust gas leak.
Symptoms of exhaust manifold damage:
Check engine light on – The check engine light is your car’s way of warning you that there is a problem in the engine. If any measured components in your exhaust system malfunction, the check engine light will turn on.
Reduced engine performance – You may notice a lack of engine performance as the engine struggles to dispose of exhaust fumes properly. This will often be accompanied by reduced fuel efficiency and often increased noise and toxic fumes.
Burning smell coming from the engine – A failing exhaust manifold will cause the exhaust gases to escape, potentially damaging surrounding parts. Plastic and wiring can burn, resulting in a strong burning smell coming from the engine bay.
How important is an exhaust manifold replacement?
The longer the exhaust manifold is damaged / leaking without fixing the issue, the more likely that the size of the leak / crack will grow. This can accelerate the following problems:
- toxic fumes entering the passenger compartment of the vehicle which can lead to carbon monoxide poisoning / driver passing out / death
- your vehicle will fail a Warrant of Fitness (WOF),
- damage to engine exhaust valves
- embarrassing sound as you drive – as if your car has become a loud truck
- possible hot exhaust gas damage to other engine components
- reduced engine performance
- increased fuel consumption
- increased exhaust emissions
Therefore we recommend that you get your exhaust manifold checked and replaced (if necessary) by a trustworthy mechanic immediately. It could save your health and lots of money on a larger bill in the future.
Exhaust manifold diagnostics and replacement in Hamilton
At Grimmer Motors, we can provide you with a high-quality exhaust manifold replacement. Our team of mechanics can examine the exhaust manifold and exhaust manifold gasket for cracks and leaks, replacing it if necessary. The surrounding bolts can also be replaced or tighten if they are causing problems.
For high quality, fast, experienced exhaust services in Hamilton, contact Grimmer Motors today!
Please Note – we don’t generally stock or supply just “parts only” for this service. We are a general automotive workshop. If you are able to bring your vehicle to us, we can diagnose the problem, find and fit the necessary parts, or organise the appropriate service for you. Also we are unable to weld a cracked exhaust manifold, but can fit a new or second hand one for you.