There are a lot of moving parts that help your vehicle become a lean, mean trucking machine that you’re accustomed to. But things can go downhill quickly when one of those parts stops working correctly. The exhaust system is one area that could lead to a litany of problems, so it’s best to know these four warning signs of exhaust system issues to ensure everything remains in working order.

1) Brings the Noise

The first warning sign that an exhaust system is on its last legs is as much a problem for you as it is for your neighbors—it’s extraordinarily loud. If anything is amiss, your exhaust system will make an indistinguishable loud, growling noise.

A corroded muffler, pipe fractures, or a faulty manifold gasket might cause a pounding or knocking noise from under your vehicle. If you see the exhaust pipe or muffler dragging on the ground, you know there’s a major problem that requires immediate attention.

2) And the Funk

Maybe your nose can help catch what your ears can’t because an unpleasant and foul odor is a giant red flag worth monitoring. A leak in the pipe before reaching the catalytic converter, or a broken catalytic converter, are the most probable causes of the unpleasant gas smell emanating from your car. Toxic fumes may leak into the passenger compartment of a vehicle and cause significant illness; thus, this issue requires fixing right now.

3) Lack of Giddy-Up

As thrilling as it can be to put the pedal to the metal, it should happen sparingly. However, your exhaust system could be to blame when you continuously must go full throttle to get any acceleration.

A vehicle that moves as quickly as you do when you dip your toe in a cold pool indicates a serious concern worthy of your attention. Next time you’re at a stop sign and move your foot to the gas pedal and struggle to move, a leak is likely the cause for the lack of performance, especially if the leak is too minor to be audibly noticeable.

A malfunction in the exhaust system may also cause the engine to misfire. Misfiring occurs when exhaust gases cannot freely leave the combustion chamber due to a blockage or backup in the exhaust system.

4) Running on Empty

With gas prices continuing to be as stable as a tightrope on a windy day, any noticeable dip in fuel economy should pique your interest. Assuming that your driving patterns remained status quo, you should find yourself at the pump at the same time every week or two. While numerous factors could lead to poor fuel performance, having your engine continuously work overtime and burn more fuel is one of them.

Ideally, the only time you’ll familiarize yourself with one of these four warning signs of exhaust system issues is by reading this post. However, Blessed Performance is here to save the day with top-tier diesel performance products capable of improving your exhaust system.