Why Does My Exhaust Sound Louder Than Normal?

If you’ve ever started up your vehicle and realized that it sounds noticeably louder or raspier, then you probably understand how worrying it can be when your vehicle’s exhaust suddenly sounds more like your neighbor’s lawn mower than a comfortably daily driver. 

While engine sound coming from your exhaust is usually normal, especially when accelerating, an abnormally loud exhaust could be a sign of a leak within your exhaust and emissions system. Here’s what you need to know why your vehicle might be so loud, how these issues occur, and how to keep your vehicle sounding smooth and healthy down the line.

What Is an Exhaust Leak?

Exhaust leaks occur when exhaust gasses and sound are able to exit the exhaust system prior to the tailpipe, which becomes an issue when these leaks are located behind important components like catalytic converters and mufflers.

Not only are catalytic converters important for capturing harmful exhaust emissions, they also play a large role in mitigating the output of engine noise. These components, along with the muffler and resonator, help to tamp down the sound produced by the engine and prevent public roads from sounding like a racetrack. 

How Do Exhaust Leaks Develop?

These leaks most often occur as a result of corrosion of exhaust components from road salt and wet weather, impact damage, or loose hardware/connections that allow both fumes and noise to escape the system early. 

Where Do Exhaust Leaks Occur Most Often?

While leaks can develop in just about every part of the exhaust system, there are a few components and sections of the exhaust that may be more common than others.

For one, components like the resonators and muffler are common culprits of exhaust leaks due to their size and location directly under the vehicle, exposed to any debris, salt, and moisture that may be on the road. 

Any connections made with gaskets and hardware are also at risk for leaks, as the hardware may loosen and/or the gasket fail, allowing fumes and sound to exit the system between sections of pipe or components. 

The exhaust manifold is yet another potential location for leakage, due to the gasket’s exposure to constant extreme heat from the engine. Leaks in the manifold also tend to be some of the most problematic when it comes to allowing toxic fumes to leak as a result of its location prior to the catalytic converters, as well as causing issues for the powertrain. The oxygen sensors used to monitor air-fuel ratio are most often located around or within the catalytic converters, which means pre-cat leaks can throw off your engine’s efficiency and performance. 

What Next?

If you suspect your vehicle is experiencing an exhaust leak, it’s vital to have your vehicle inspected by a trusted automotive professional as soon as possible. Allowing leaks to linger can lead to a host of issues, including you and your passengers inhaling harmful fumes, the engine receiving improper oxygen readings, and of course the loud exhaust sound we discussed earlier. 

Furthermore, if you live in an area that requires emissions testing, any exhaust leak that disrupts the oxygen sensors or allows un-converted fumes to emit will cause the vehicle to fail. 

Exhaust System Services in Peoria, IL

While you may be able to put up with the raspy exhaust sound, exhaust leaks are not something that should be ignored for a multitude of reasons. If your exhaust sounds off, don’t hesitate to schedule an appointment with the exhaust and emissions experts at Beachlers Tire & Auto Service in Peoria, Illinois. Our team has extensive experience in pinpointing even the smallest and most hidden leaks, and will ensure your exhaust system is in proper shape to keep both you and your vehicle healthy. Give us a call or schedule your appointment online today!