An exhaust system is comprised of several different parts. Each one of these parts plays an integral role in the operation and safety of your vehicle. For example, the catalytic converter is a crucial element in converting toxic fumes into environmentally friendly emissions. Because of the importance of each component, exhaust repair in NH is a must at the first signs of damage. This article will take an in-depth look at exhaust leaks, and provide you with the information every driver should know.
Components
As we mentioned, your vehicle exhaust system is made up of several different components, each with its own job. Below is a list of parts and their specific job within the exhaust system:
- Catalytic converter which helps to reduce air pollution by changing harmful carbon monoxide and hydrocarbons into environmentally safe vapors.
- Cylinder heads play a vital role in controlling the combustion process.
- Exhaust manifolds collect the exhaust from multiple cylinders into one pipe, which helps to minimize heat, air, and harmful gases.
- Hangers are extremely important for driving safety. If a vehicle has even one broken hanger, automatic shifting can occur during driving causing a whiplash effect.
- Exhaust joints hold your system in place. As with any element that is tossed around and hit with road debris, joints can leak or obtain cracks that allow leaks to happen.
- Mufflers keep your car running quietly by silencing the combustion process.
- Oxygen Sensors in modern cars sense the amount of oxygen within your exhaust system. This information helps the vehicle’s computer calculate and release the correct amount of fuel for maximum fuel economy.
The dangers of exhaust leaks
Beyond affecting the performance of your vehicle, many safety factors that are a concern with exhaust leaks. Below are just a few of those concerns:
- Carbon Monoxide. The fumes that the exhaust system creates contain carbon monoxide, the odorless killer.
- Interrupted Driving. From vibrating gas pedals to steering wheels and automatic shifting while driving, exhaust system leaks and damages can create a dangerous driving experience for yourself and others.
For more information on common signs that it may be time for exhaust repair in NH, check out our previous article.
If your vehicle needs exhaust repair in NH, it’s time to contact the team at RK Auto Repair. Our team of fully certified mechanics has the experience to find even the smallest cracks within your exhaust system. Don’t wait until repairs become a costly event, call us today at (603) 595-7575.
Like all vehicle parts, exhausts need a little TLC every once in a while. However, unlike vehicle parts that have a routine maintenance schedule, your exhaust will let you know when it needs repair. Here at RK Auto Repair, we specialize in all exhaust systems, especially custom exhausts in NH. If your exhaust system is showing any of the following signs, it may be time to give our team a call.
Engine Noise
One of the sure signs of exhaust failure is increased noise. Similarly, increased noise is typically the first sign that most drivers will notice. Because the system’s function is to keep engine noise down, a leak in the exhaust will result in loud rumbling grabbing the attention of the vehicle owner and all that pass by. A typical spot for a leak to occur is in the exhaust manifold. However, your engine may also leak at the manifold, which could cause possible harmful effects to both the driver and passengers. Thus, it’s always best to have your vehicle looked at as soon as possible if you’re noticing an increase in exhaust noise.
Decreased Fuel Efficiency
Another sure sign that there’s a leak with your exhaust system is a decrease in fuel efficiency. However, this sign is a bit easier to overlook if not paying close attention to your mileage. The reason for efficiency loss could be that your engine is operating at hotter temperatures than usual. If you notice you’re making more trips to the gas stations than usual, give your local auto repair shop a call. It’s always better to catch potential issues sooner than later. If small problems go ignored, they could become more costly headaches for you in the future.
Vibrations
Paying close attention to the normal conditions of your vehicle is imperative to noticing when something is off. For example, some older cars provide their owners with a massage when driven, and this is somewhat normal for them. However, if your vehicle suddenly provides feedback from the steering wheel or gas pedal, you may be facing an exhaust leak. Although it may not seem like too much of a concern, if left unattended, the vibrations could increase making vehicle handling a difficult task.
Here at RK Auto Repair, our team of experienced professionals can help you determine if your NH custom exhaust needs repair. For more information, visit us online at https://rkautorepairll.wpengine.com or call to schedule your next appointment 603.595.7575.
One thing you can count on is that your vehicle will not be shy when it comes to letting you know it needs exhaust repair. As one of the most worked components in your vehicle, the exhaust manifold is the most common area in need of repair. The constant heating and cooling creates expansion and contraction in the manifold. Thus, manifolds have been known to commonly crack over time. However, there are several components when dealing with an exhaust system. RK Auto Repair knows exhaust repair in NH. Below, RK Auto has created a list of four tell-tale signs that your vehicle’s exhaust system requires a little TLC.
Rumbles and Hissing
One of the most noticeable signs that you may need exhaust repair services is the presence of unusual sounds. Loud rumbles or hissing are commonly heard by vehicle owners if there is a leak in the manifold. This type of leak can increase engine volume. Although other components of the exhaust system can lead to increased volume, the manifold tends to be the most common.
Foul Smelling Fumes
Another component of your exhaust system is the catalytic converter. This component helps to transform harmful pollutant gases into less harmful ones. Thus, if the converter goes, you may be sitting in some pretty foul smelling fumes on your ride across town. Often associated with a sulfur smell, when a catalytic converter goes, you can be sure you’ll know. Another sign of a failed converter could be rattling noises from under the vehicle.
Decrease in Fuel Efficiency
Perhaps you’re finding yourself at the gas pump more often than usual. A leaky exhaust system makes it harder for your engine to power the vehicle. Thus, you will find a decrease in fuel efficiency may occur. Be sure to pay special attention to your vehicle’s performance when you step on the gas pedal. If you notice any type of lag, it may be time to call your local auto repair shop.
Loud Noises
Even if you’ve never heard of the above-mentioned components, chances are you know what a muffler is. As part of the exhaust system, your vehicle’s muffler helps to reduce emissions and noise. Cracks in your muffler can become a serious concern as you and your passengers may no longer be protected from hazardous fumes such as carbon monoxide.
If any of these things are happening with your vehicle, consider contacting RK Auto Repair for the best exhaust repair in NH. The experienced team can detect even the slightest crack or potential problem with their high-tech diagnostic systems. Visit RK Auto Repair online to learn more on how they can help your vehicle.
The phrase, “your car is worth more than the sum of its parts” is a statistical fact. Having all of these parts moving in sync and working together to get you where you’re going is invaluable to many Americans. However, the phrase “a chain is only as strong as its weakest length” is also accurate. When one part of your car is acting up, it can create a domino effect of disaster throughout your vehicle. One vital part of your vehicle is the exhaust. When your exhaust is damaged, you’re driving on an unsafe vehicle. The signs you need custom exhaust in NH can be broken down into four of the five senses: sight, scent, sound, and touch. (NOTE: nobody should ever taste an exhaust. That’s just wrong.)
Look
You can see signs that you need custom exhaust in NH. Something to keep your eyes peeled for includes the smoke. If the smoke coming out of your exhaust is thicker than usual, there may be a problem with your exhaust. The smoke looking whiter than usual is also a warning. You should try to keep your eye on your gas mileage as well. If you’re getting fewer miles to the gallon, there may be a leak in your exhaust.
Smell
You know what your car smells like. You use it every day. Although that new car smell is long gone by now, the inside of your vehicle will carry a scent that is recognizable to you and probably smells a lot like you. You should also know what exhaust smoke smells like. When the inside of your car begins to smell like exhaust, that’s a problem. Head to a mechanic if the fumes of your exhaust are starting to fill your cabin.
Listen
The goal of an engine is to hum like a bumblebee. Hypothetically speaking, the quieter and engine, the better your car is running. When you start to hear noises coming from your engine, that’s a bad sign. While there are plenty of things that can cause an engine to make strange noises, your car exhaust is one of them.
Feel
Nobody knows how your car drives as well as you do. You know the movements of your vehicle, and when your car is moving differently. Feeling rumbling and rattling that you don’t usually feel while driving can be connected to the exhaust. If your car starts shaking, be safe and bring your car to a mechanic.
Every part of your car has an expiration date. When you start to notice any of the signs above, it’s time to consider getting a custom exhaust in NH. For all your auto mechanic needs, contact RK Auto Repair at 603-595-7575 or visit them online.
One of, if not the most critical system in your vehicle is the exhaust system. This is the part of your car that filters all the dangerous fumes that form as your engine runs through the pipes and out the exhaust at the rear. Because your exhaust system is the hardest working part of your vehicle, it can get overworked if you aren’t paying attention. When this happens, exhaust can leak and expose you to harmful fumes. Here are four signs you may need exhaust repair in NH.
Check Engine Light
Lucky for all of us, cars come equipped with a check engine light to let us know when problems in our engine arise. It’s essential that you don’t just turn the light off because when you do, you’re putting yourself and other drivers and pedestrians at risk. While there are a variety of reasons your check engine light can come on, you should bring your car to a mechanic to see if you need exhaust repair in NH.
Fuel Efficiency Change
Nobody drives your car as much as you do, so your the person most likely to notice a change in how your car operates. If you notice that you’re filling up your tank more often than you used to, consider visiting an auto shop. When you aren’t getting the same gas mileage as usual, your exhaust may play a factor.
Fume Smells
Exhaust has a specific smell to it. Some people even enjoy the smell of exhaust. However, exhaust fumes are dangerous. When you start to notice your car emitting odors as it drives, be careful. Bring your vehicle into a shop to have the exhaust checked out. If you ignore it, the fumes can fill your car and negatively affect your health.
Engine Noises
Everybody has revved their engine at some point or another. A lot of people think it makes them feel like a NASCAR driver. Still, you’ll notice when your engine starts to make noises or give off vibrations. Rattling and rumbling coming from your engine should be an indicator it’s time for a professional to take a look under the hood.
Not enough people know the warning signs of a damaged exhaust system, but everybody knows how their car drives. When you notice a change in gas mileage, odors, and noises in your car, it’s probably time for exhaust repair in NH. For auto repair near you, contact RK Auto Repair or visit them online today!
Routine maintenance for gas, oil, and standard vehicle operations may seem like the most important part of owning a car. These consistent check ups are very necessary, but forgetting about your vehicle’s less prominent parts can harm your vehicle.
There are several items in your car that need consistent replacements. Observe a few below to get acquainted, and contact us for any auto repair in Nashua, NH.
Taillights
Staying visible on the road is important – especially at night. In conjunction with the front lights, the lights toward the back of your vehicle help guide the way and alert drivers to your presence.
Changing taillights is an easy, quick fix that will help keep you safe. Failure to keep up with them will not only result in possible danger: law enforcement will have words to say about your vehicle if it is not equipped with proper taillights.
Tires
They help you drive on the road, and give your vehicle the traction it needs to move on just about every surface. Frequent travel on these surfaces, however, can give some wear and tear to the tires – which can result in blowouts and plenty of damage.
It is recommended that tires and changed every 6,000 miles. Take a look at manufacturer standards to be sure of the precise time to change your vehicle’s tires, as they can vary.
Windshield Wipers
Windshield wipers assist with your line of vision when driving, and cannot be underestimated in terms of safety. The wipers work to remove moisture and other weather particles from the windshield, clearing the surface.
Using fluid to make the movements nice and smooth will assist with visiblity, and frequent replacement before they get worn is a surefire way to keep your vision up to a high standard.
Gas Caps
Keeping the gas contained in your vehicle is necessary for it to have the fuel to function, so a proper gas cap is necessary. Since they are moved around frequently when purchasing gas and can cause engine troubles, they need to be looked at every now and then.
If your gas cap is loose, comes off of the vehicle often, or does not fasten, it needs to be changed. Your car’s fuel depends on it.
Tailpipes
Tailpipes assist with emission and help filter the air that comes in and out of your vehicle. Keeping your vehicle properly filtered will help with safety standards and makes the air breathable.
This part of the exhaust system can rust and get holes easily if they are neglected, so doing a visual check on them every so often is beneficial, and will ensure your exhaust system will work properly. RK Auto Repair work with these parts of the vehicle frequently and we are a great source if your exhaust system needs auto repair in Nashua, NH.
Of course, any part of your vehicle that is broken or seems a bit “off” should require your attention, but these are some of parts that need consistent attention.
For assistance with these parts and other aspects of vehicle care, give RK us a call at (603)-595-7575 for quality auto repair in Nashua, NH.
We all hear the stories online. Someone gets stuck in a snowstorm and is found three days later alive and well. Others may not be so lucky to be found within a decent time frame, but they still manage to survive. Even when you just need to stop on the side of the road and wait for the tow truck or the person that fixes everything in your life, you still need a way to stay safe and secure.
Getting stuck in the middle of nowhere is no one’s idea of a fun time, and many times you think that it could never happen to you. Chances are it won’t happen, but it is always good to prepare. Should you get stuck, there are a few things that will come in handy.
1.) Jumper cables or Jump Starter
These two items will come in handy when your battery doesn’t start. The good thing about a starter is that you don’t need to rely on another person to help you. As long as you check that it stays fully charged, it can be used to jumpstart the car. Jumper cables are also useful to have in case your charger goes caput.
2.) Flashlight
It is helpful if you get stuck at night. You will be able to check around the car for issues and be able to call for help correctly.
3.) Tire Pressure Gauge, Fix-A-Flat (or spare), and Air Compressor
When you run into a flat tire, these are extremely useful so you can at least make it home or to your mechanic. An auto mechanic in Nashua will be able to help you out if you can get there. You will also need a jack and tire iron to change the flat tire.
4.) Kitty Litter, Sand or a Spare Carpet
These will help you if your tire gets stuck in snow, sludge or mud. It will create the traction that is needed for you to get out of a messy situation.
5.) Water and Protein Bars
There is no knowing how long it could be for someone to get to you. That is why bottles of water and protein bars are good in case you are stuck waiting for a couple of hours.
6.) Blankets, Sweaters, Hats
Anything that could help keep you warm is good to have, especially in the winter months. It is important that you are ready for temperature drops.
7.) Flares, Reflectors
These get used so that the drivers that could be driving by will see the car and hopefully stop to help you out. If anything, you know that they won’t hit you.
8.) Chargers, Radio, Cell Phone
In today’s age, it is impossible to be anywhere without your phone. While you may not have service where you are, a phone can always dial out to 911. Just make sure that you have a portable charger and a radio so you can hear about weather conditions if it is during inclement weather.
9.) First Aid Kit, Emergency Kit
In case someone gets injured, have a first aid kit that will cover the basics. Many of these items are also in emergency kits that you can keep in the back of your car. Either way, it is useful to have both.
10.) Maps
Some GPS satellites won’t pick up where you are, depending on the area. It is always good to be able to have a map with you so you can tell people where you are, know where you are, and know where people might live.
While many of these things are common sense, it is essential to your survival until you can get picked up and brought to your auto mechanic in Nashua. Sometimes, waiting is the hardest part, so it is important to know what you should have just in case the worst should happen.
When it comes time to repair your vehicle and drop it off at the repair shop, being prepared is always smart. Knowing what you need done, being aware of service prices, and other bits of knowledge will make the visit much easier. However, mistakes can always happen during a visit to the mechanic. Being aware of these missteps will make the experience easier and more effective.
The following are a few mistakes to avoid. When you require strong auto repair in Nashua, NH, visit us here at RK Auto Repair!
1.) Paying Too Much for a Service
This is why research is so important beforehand. Comparing prices before you visit the shop is a great way to learn about the process(es) your vehicle needs, and also finding out how much money you should expect to pay.
By not doing enough research, you may be expected to pay more for the service than expected – and when a service is usually offered at a price that is a good deal cheaper, it is just unethical of the shop to expect a higher price!
2.) Not Finding Transportation
Chances are, your vehicle will have to stay at the shop for a little while as it is repaired. We all have our lives and other hobbies to attend to, so getting from Point A to Point B is key. Make sure you are able to travel to and from the shop. Whether that means calling Uber, asking your parents for a lift, or renting a car, set it up so you can move along. Here at RK Auto Repair, we know how inconvenient it is to be without a vehicle as we perform auto repair in Nashua, NH. To accommodate everyone, we offer our customers cars to get around as we work.
3.) Fall for Other Services
While we at RK Auto Repair have a staff full of dedicated and friendly mechanics, there are some out there looking to make as much money as possible off of your vehicle’s woes. Sometimes, a mechanic will offer additional services, repairs, or parts that are unrelated to the problem at hand or your vehicle’s needs. It can become a very complicated and frustrating affair. Remember to say no when you must, and know exactly what you need from the mechanic.
4.) Visiting Someone Inexperienced
Vehicles are delicate, and you need to be certain that whoever is working with them is able to do everything you need to for it to work again. When someone is inexperienced, they will not be able to offer solutions or do the job right. Make sure the mechanic you visit has plenty of experience and can service your vehicle appropriately.
5.) Lack of Budget
It can be a bit of a drag, but working with a budget only helps you financially and is a great habit to practice. When your vehicle needs to be fixed, it is important to have enough money available to cater to everything that needs to be fixed and pay for it in full. Do some budget planning beforehand, and you will have an easier time with this roadblock.
Follow these tips, and you are sure to have a successful visit to your mechanic. For your auto repair in Nashua, NH needs, RK Auto Repair is here for you. Give us a call at (603)-595-7575!
This question would have held more weight years ago when the gap between the two was much larger, in all honesty. However, there is still the debate between some individuals on whether they should buy domestic or foreign cars. Now, usually, once you find a brand of car that works for you, it won’t matter if it is domestic or foreign and they all should have a chance. Still, in all honesty, what is the difference anymore? Is the main difference strictly the cost of auto repair in Nashua, NH or is there something more?
When this debate initially started, American was the only way to buy anything. However, as things moved forward, America began importing more and more items. Once that gap ended after the Depression, the choice between domestic and foreign cars became a struggle.
One disputed difference between the two cars for years is the quality of the vehicle. Many times, the imports, such as Japanese imports, are known to be good brands for quality and reliability while European brands are good for craftsmanship. For years, foreign cars were the go-to car for handling, suspension, and other performance aspects of the car. Many times, the domestic cars would wear out once the warranty was up, requiring a trade in or a new lease. Another issue that was common was the efficiency of the car. Foreign cars currently still have a better mpg efficiency, but the game is closing within a few gallons. However, this is not the case anymore. Many American cars now provide the same smooth performance as some of the top competitors from the foreign market.
The major aspect where there is a difference between the two is still the price of the vehicles. Domestic cars tend to be cheaper for multiple reasons, one being that there are no import costs added to the price. Typically, American cars are more affordable because their parts are cheaper for auto repair in Nashua, NH than many foreign cars. Foreign car parts tend to be more expensive, especially when you look into European vehicles. For some reason, the parts are priced much higher than an American car. However, some foreign cars will have domestic plants, such as Nissan and Hyundai, which will make it easier to get access to the parts for the car. Which would, in turn, reduce some cost, but anything American made will be cheaper.
So, for the two most important aspects of the car buying market, performance and price point, the playing field is pretty even. It is also useful knowing that if you decide on a foreign vehicle, you will have auto mechanics who know what they are doing from start to finish. At RK Auto, we can service your domestic and your foreign vehicles with the same expertise – so take your time to choose the right car for your needs.
When you consider custom exhaust in NH, it is important to remember the basics about your vehicle and the exhaust. Not all exhausts are created equal. Driving down the road, you will see multiple exhaust pipes on cars. From single to double, the exhaust is key to the car.
A car cannot properly run without the exhaust. The exhaust removes all of the noxious gasses from the engine, converts them to cleaner gasses in the catalytic converter, then releases them into the air that we breathe. Without the exhaust, we would always be breathing in toxic air that would kill us. That is why when you look into replacing your exhaust, it is important to choose one that works with your vehicle.
Single Exit
The top of the list for standard exhaust pipes. The single exit exhausts are exactly how they sound. A single tube releases the converted gasses into the atmosphere. These are the most common in dealership cars for the most part, but other styles are coming to the market more and more. It is the cheapest to install, which is why it has been at the top of the list for so long.
Dual Rear Exit
Did you ever dream of wanting that little red Corvette sports car? Well, chances are this is the exhaust it would have had. With a deeper sound, the dual pipes sit on opposite sides of the car under the trunk bumper and attempt to make the vehicle look a bit sportier. These are more efficient than the single pipes, which is why they have been gaining popularity.
Opposite Dual Exhaust
More common on anything that is pulling a load, the opposite dual exhaust will bend around the wheels of the vehicle. Unlike dual rear exit exhaust, this exhaust uses the curve from wrapping around the wheel to help filter the gasses. It also contributes to leaving less of the nasty residue on the load that the vehicle is pulling. Since they do not leave any residue, they are very useful for transportation means.
Dual Side Exhaust
This exhaust is somewhat of a hybrid between a single exit exhaust and a dual rear exit. This exhaust has two pipes situated next to each other rather than on opposite sides of the car. With smaller pipes than the single exhaust, it makes a deeper sound but is more efficient at expelling the gasses. Without the price tag of high-end exhausts, they give a sleek look to the car.
Custom exhaust in NH can happen without breaking the bank. It is important to remember that your exhaust is one of the key aspects of maintaining your vehicle’s safety and efficiency. With the wrong exhaust, you could lose some of the important aspects of your car.
If you need a new custom exhaust in NH due to age, or just updating your vehicle, call RK Auto. We can do a broad range of exhaust work and can provide you with a loaner car if the work takes multiple days. Call us today at (603)-595-7575.