Has the smooth, quiet hum of your car’s engine been replaced by a louder rumble or roar? It’s possible there’s a problem with your car’s exhaust system, which is responsible for carrying exhaust fumes away from your engine and keeping them from the cabin of your car. Alternatively, it could be an issue in the combustion chambers of your engine. Whatever it may be, pay attention to any other symptoms that arise and let your mechanic know, though these three auto repairs are commonly associated with cars running loud.
A Leak in the Exhaust System
One of the most common causes of extra noise, while the engine is running, are leaks in the exhaust system. Most parts of your car’s exhaust system are located on the underside and are therefore most exposed to bumps in the road and debris. That means it’s not difficult for them to become damaged or extra-worn to the point there’s a leak. When you hear a loud roaring noise while driving, it could be exhaust fumes rushing out of a crack or through a worn seal or gasket.
A Mechanic Should Check the Exhaust Manifold, Seals, and Gaskets
When you bring your car to an auto repair shop, your mechanic should check the exhaust manifold, as well as the seals and gaskets in your exhaust system. If your exhaust manifold is the problem, you’re looking at a more expensive repair, but your Check Engine light should also likely be on because of that but not always. Don’t depend on the check engine light for warnings. However, if you have worn exhaust seals or gaskets that are causing your car to sound loud, they could cause damage to your exhaust manifold if not repaired themselves soon.
The Catalytic Converter is Failing
Your car’s catalytic converter is responsible for converting harmful exhaust fumes into an environmentally safer compound. This also burns off sulfur created by the engine, meaning if your catalytic converter is failing, may also smell rotten eggs while your engine is running. Because it’s not an inexpensive repair, it may be tempting to put off replacing your catalytic converter, but if it becomes completely blocked, it may mean your car can’t run at all.
Keep an Eye Out for Your Check Engine Light
Another sign that could point to your catalytic converter is your Check Engine light, though several problems with your exhaust system can also trigger the same warning light. The surest sign that your catalytic converter is to blame is the sulfuric smell of rotten eggs. However, if your Check Engine light is on, you should also make sure you bring your car to a trusted mechanic soon to diagnose any necessary car repairs.
One of Your Spark Plugs is Bad
Car engines run thanks to combustion of an air-fuel mixture and your car uses spark plugs to ignite that air-fuel mixture. Over time, your spark plugs can become dirty and will wear out. In either case, the spark plugs won’t properly ignite the fuel and it can cause your engine to misfire, which can make your car sound louder than usual. You may be able to take care of this on your own, but it’s always best to bring your car to a mechanic to make sure there aren’t any other necessary repairs.
Replacing Spark Plugs is a Simpler Repair Service for Your Mechanic
Luckily, spark plugs are a relatively straightforward car repair service, so you probably won’t find yourself with a terribly hefty auto repair bill. At the same time, it’ll give your mechanic a chance to inspect your car’s engine and other important systems to make sure they’re all working properly. If there are any other car problems, whether contributing to your car running loud or completely unrelated, your mechanic should be able to find them in your inspection so you’ll be sure your car is good to go.
The Best Auto Repair in Orlando is at Your Local AAMCO
No matter what your car needs, the expert mechanics at AAMCO will be able to find out what’s wrong with your car and how to get it back in good shape. Whether a simple spark plug replacement will get you back on the road or your engine or exhaust system have bigger problems, we’ll take care of you and your car. Give us a call or schedule your appointment online today!