Basic Car Knowledge: Car Exhaust Systems

The car exhaust system is extremely important for proper functionality of the vehicle.

Not only is the exhaust needed for proper engine operation, it also channels the noise and heat created by the engine away from the occupants of the car to provide a more comfortable ride.

The exhaust system provides a smooth and consistent flow of air out of the engine. This results in better engine performance and ensures that dirt and other particles do not get into the engine through the exhaust valves. 

The exhaust system is made up of several sections of tubing and other components. The exhaust leaves the engine through the exhaust valves into the exhaust manifold, which is bolted directly to the exhaust valve openings. 

From the manifold, the exhaust travels through a section of tubing into the catalytic converter. The job of the catalytic converter is to remove harmful pollutants from the exhaust. The cleaned exhaust then travels through another section of tubing to the muffler.

The muffler reduces the amount of noise created by the engine to an acceptable level. The exhaust exits the system through the exhaust tip, which extends out of the muffler from the rear of the vehicle.

There are countless variations of exhaust systems on cars, but the principles and purpose are always the same. Some cars are equipped with a dual exhaust system to allow better airflow out of the engine.

Better airflow through the engine allows the engine to create more power. Different sizes of tubing and different muffler designs are also used to increase airflow. If the engine is equipped with a turbocharger, the exhaust first passes through the turbine housing to spin the turbocharger before continuing through the rest of the system.

Maintenance of the exhaust system is important because a malfunction such as an exhaust leak can compromise engine operation.

Surface rust is common on the components of the car exhaust system, but affected parts should replace if the rust forms a hole in the system.

The car cannot run properly without a functioning exhaust system.

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