Your BMW depends on various systems for its performance and functionality. One is the exhaust system, which is an array of components working in unison to release toxic waste into the air after it is converted to less harmful emissions.
Depending on the model of your BMW, the exhaust system consists of the exhaust manifold, oxygen sensors, pipe, catalytic converter, resonators, silencer, and tailpipe, all designed to collect exhaust gases from the car cylinder, remove harmful substances, and release the purified exhaust gases.
The exhaust system plays a crucial role in BMW cars as it helps enhance engine performance, environment comfortability, and fuel efficiency. Hence, having an exhaust system fault can have a devastating effect.
What Can Lead To the Development of Faults in the BMW Exhaust System?
Faults in BMW exhaust systems can be attributed to various reasons —internal car component problems and external conditions. Here are some of the common causes.
- Leakage: If you drive your BMW on rough terrains regularly, your exhaust system is susceptible to early fault and total breakdown. This is because the lower area of the car where a large percentage of the exhaust system is located can get damaged when in contact with rough road surfaces. When this happens, the system could have unintended leakages.
- Faulty Oxygen Sensors: One of the engineering advantages of the BMW is the multiple oxygen sensors installed in them. However, a fault in one oxygen sensor is enough to confuse the car’s computer system. When this happens, there is an imbalance in the air-fuel mixture which then leads to poor combustion and the bad emissions from the exhaust system.
- Rust: Rust is the most common enemy of exhaust systems. Over time, the exhaust pipe, catalytic converter, and pipes can develop rust from salt water, bumps, and other external conditions. Also, if you take short trips regularly, water vapors are easily collected in the exhaust system as they never get the chance to properly dry off. All of this can lead to serious problems in the exhaust system.
- Broken hangers: Hangers support your BMW exhaust system and prevent it from hitting the ground when you hit a road bump or rough road. Once the hanger is broken, the exhaust system components are free to move around and dent as you drive. Some components can even break and fall off in serious situations.
Signs of Faulty Exhaust System in Your BMW
The signs of faults in BMW exhaust systems are easily noticeable. The following are distress signs your exhaust system would give to get your attention:
- Visible Exhaust Smoke: Seeing thick, dark smoke coming out of the tailpipe is the most visible sign of a failed exhaust system. And, it can be attributed to burning oil, bad catalytic converter, or improper fuel combustion. When you see this, you should take no time in taking your BMW to the nearest Auto shop.
- Pungent Smoke Smell: If the exhaust system has a leak, one thing you will notice is a strong, unpleasant smell, which indicates a dangerous carbon monoxide leak.
- Increased Engine Noise: You will most likely hear a loud roaring or hissing noise from your car’s exhaust area when you have an exhaust leak, broken muffler, or other exhaust system issues.
- Dashboard Light Warnings: A damaged oxygen sensor, catalytic converter, and other exhaust components will trigger the check engine light and other warning lights to come on the car dashboard.
- Increase Fuel Consumption and Poor Performance: Because the exhaust system is faulty, there will be an imbalance in the air-fuel mixture which affects combustion and makes the engine work harder. The impact of this is an increase in fuel consumption and reduced engine performance.
- Vibrations: Loose or misaligned exhaust system components could also cause vibrations in the steering wheel or gas pedal while driving. It could be as bad as the whole car vibrating while in motion.
The Best Automobile Specialists in Warrenton for Your BMW
EuroService Automotive is the ideal auto shop for your BMW part repairs, scheduled diagnostics checks, and routine maintenance actions. We believe that the quality of service rendered is as important as the service itself. So, we have ASE-certified technicians and the latest factory-grade tools and equipment to help fix common BMW issues.
We pay keen attention to your car needs, which is why drivers in Warrenton, VA, and surrounding cities like Bristow, Gainesville, Haymarket, and Manassas have chosen us as their go-to Garage. Visit us today, and let’s help you give your car the best treatment.