Is your engine noisier than usual? Noticing a drop in fuel efficiency? Strange smells or rattling from underneath your vehicle? These could be signs of a faulty exhaust system or catalytic converter.

• Leaks or corrosion in the exhaust system
• Blocked or failing catalytic converterExcessive noise or vibrations
• Reduced fuel economy or engine performance

Don’t wait until your MOT fails or a warning light appears.

A catalytic converter (often called a CAT) is a vital component of your vehicle’s exhaust system. Its job is to reduce harmful emissions by converting toxic gases like hydrocarbons, carbon monoxide, and nitrogen oxides into less harmful substances before they leave your exhaust pipe. Positioned underneath your vehicle, the CAT plays a key role in ensuring your car meets environmental standards and passes its MOT emissions test.

• Clogging or blockages due to old engine oil or unburnt fuel
• Overheating from engine misfires or a rich fuel mixture
• Physical damage from speed bumps, potholes or debris
• Wear and tear over time, especially in high-mileage vehicles

A faulty CAT can lead to reduced fuel efficiency, increased emissions, and even engine performance issues.

• Trigger your Check Engine Light
• Causes loud roaring noises
• Leads to rough acceleration
• Damage your engine over time
• Result in failed MOT tests for excessive emissions

Driving without a catalytic converter isn’t just bad for your vehicle — it’s harmful to the environment and your wallet.

Exhaust System Check & Repair at MRC

Your exhaust system plays a critical role in keeping your vehicle running smoothly, efficiently, and safely. It channels harmful gases like carbon monoxide and nitrogen oxides away from the engine, filters out toxins, and expels them safely into the atmosphere.

🔍 Why a Healthy Exhaust System Matters

• Protect passengers from toxic fumes
• Reduce emissions for a cleaner environment
• Improve fuel efficiency
• Enhance engine performance
• Help maintain a quieter ride

Ignoring exhaust issues can lead to serious consequences, including engine damage, MOT failure, and dangerous in-cabin air pollution.

How Do I Know If There’s Something Wrong With My Exhaust?

Spotting early warning signs of exhaust problems can save you money and protect your safety. Here’s what to look (and listen) for:

1. Loud or Unusual Noises

• Roaring: Often caused by a faulty silencer due to corrosion
• Hissing: A crack in the exhaust manifold, pipe, or leaking gasket
• Chugging: Possible blockage in the system
• Rattling: Misalignment or loose/missing clamps and brackets

🔍 Tip: A loud metallic vibration can mean something is touching the pipe or a mounting has come loose.

2. Reduced Fuel Efficiency

A damaged or leaking exhaust can throw off your car’s engine performance, leading to poor MPG and higher fuel costs.

3. Bad Odours from the Exhaust

A smell like rotten eggs or sulphur can signal a leak in the exhaust manifold or system. This can let harmful gases like carbon monoxide enter the cabin — a serious safety concern.

4. Visible Exhaust Damage

Inspect your exhaust system from front to back. Look out for:

• Holes or cracks in pipes and seams
• Corroded brackets or mounts
• Internal rust (test by gently prodding rust with a screwdriver)

⚠️ External rust may be harmless surface corrosion, but internal rust or weakened metal means it’s time for a replacement.

5. Check Engine Light

Many exhaust system issues — like a faulty oxygen sensor or emissions fault — can trigger your dashboard’s Check Engine warning. A diagnostic scan is the best way to find out.

6. Sluggish Acceleration

If your car feels underpowered or slow to accelerate, the issue could lie in the exhaust flow. A blocked or leaking system may restrict engine performance.

What Happens If My Exhaust Fails?

A failing exhaust system is more than just noisy, it can become a serious safety risk. Exhausts can corrode from both the inside and outside, and their lifespan depends more on how often and how far you drive, rather than how long the exhaust has been fitted.

Health Risks

When an exhaust fails, it may leak harmful gases like carbon monoxide into your vehicle’s cabin. Even small amounts can cause:

• Drowsiness
• Headaches
• Nausea
• Long-term health complications

In severe cases, prolonged exposure can even be life-threatening.

Noise and Performance Issues

• Loud roaring or rattling noises
• Rough acceleration
• Reduced fuel efficiency
• Failed MOT due to emissions

Exhausts corrode both inside and out. Moisture from short journeys can build up internally and form corrosive acids, especially if the system doesn’t get hot enough to burn off condensation. How long your exhaust lasts depends on how often and how far you drive, not just how long it’s been fitted.