Exhaust System and Catalytic Converters

The exhaust system is one of the most hard working components on your vehicle. It is constantly in use whilst the engine is running. An exhaust system on most vehicles usually comprises of four sections:

• Manifold
• Front Down pipe
• Centre Section
• Rear silencer box

Also on all vehicles registered after 1993 a catalytic converter is fitted.

The most common section to become defective is the rear silencer as moisture gathers inside the box and attacks the metal. Corrosion from the inside results in hole, which causes the exhaust to blow. A defective exhaust will mean the vehicle fails the MOT test. It also causes excessive noise; thereby rendering the vehicle illegal which could lead to a fixed penalty fine. An unchecked exhaust may also result in fumes entering the car, which can lead to headaches, sickness and drowsiness.