Exhaust pipes are key to ensuring a car runs smoothly, which is why it’s important you’re familiar with the part.
Though car tuning enthusiasts believe the component increases vehicle power, the actual function of an exhaust pipe is to help optimise the power already produced by an engine. However, this does not increase a car’s horsepower.
A key part of a car’s exhaust system, it is essential car owners know more about this component. Keep reading to do just that.
What is an exhaust pipe?
Though it is known as an exhaust pipe, this component is technically called a silencer. Part of a car’s exhaust system, the silencer works with the manifold, catalyst converter, and the front silencer.
From the very first design, the purpose of the system has been to decrease vehicle noise and eliminate gases. As a result, and with the development of the automotive industry, the system contributes to reducing or controlling harmful gases by cooling the gases and reversing airflow.
What are exhaust pipes used for?
As mentioned previously, exhaust pipes reduce the noise produced by the engine and eliminate gases. Among the advantages produced by this system are quieter driving and reduced noise pollution.
The main components of the part are a metal case and two tubes, which vibrate until the sound is absorbed by the respective components.
Usage of the system and the temperature changes it undergoes makes it common for components of exhaust pipes to wear out.
It is therefore necessary to have them replaced at a specialised car garage.
Why? Because replacing a car’s exhaust pipe involves disassembling the entire part carefully and replacing it in its entirety, using tools such as exhaust hanger removal pliers and chain pipe exhaust cutter pliers.
What types of exhaust pipes are there?
Exhaust boxes are currently divided into two or four chambers filled with sound-absorbing material.
However, certain cars are fitted with custom pipes, such as an exhaust pipe with a valve or a sports exhaust pipe.
What are the signs that the exhaust pipe needs replacing?
If a problem arises with your exhaust pipe, you’ll need to remedy the situation as soon as possible. Why? Because failing to do so puts you at risk.
Ideally, car exhaust systems should be checked every 20,000 Km. However, you can watch out for the following signs that there’s something wrong with your exhaust pipe:
- Smoke coming out of the exhaust;
- Hole in the exhaust pipe;
- In some cases, an intense odour;
- Exhaust pipe producing a loud noise;
- Noticeable decrease in engine power;
- Gases in other parts of the car besides the exhaust pipe.
What should you do to maintain your car exhaust pipe?
As your exhaust pipe is an important component in ensuring the normal functioning of your car, it is important that you maintain it by:
- Using fuel suitable for your vehicle and preferably of high quality;
- Checking your vehicle’s exhaust system every 20,000 Km or once a year;
- Replacing the fasteners each time you replace any element of your exhaust system;
- Driving carefully to avoid road accidents or other bumps that may cause breakage;
- Performing regular preventive maintenance to prevent wear of other components, such as additional shock absorbers;
- Ensuring your car petrol filter is in good working order;
- Do not use products with additives when cleaning the injection system.
How much does an exhaust pipe cost?
Even if you opt for a straight-through silencer, a new exhaust pipe is not very expensive. You generally won’t need to pay more than 80 euros.
Cheaper options usually cost between 20 and 30 euros, on average, but if you want a high-performance custom system, you can end up spending thousands of euros.
Once again, we recommend using a trusted car garage to ensure that your exhaust pipe is replaced correctly and safely, using tools such as the 34-56mm diameter exhaust pipe separator or the 30-87mm exhaust extension kit.
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