Today's Vehicle Exhaust Systems Do More

BETHESDA, Md., Jan. 21 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Your car's exhaust system has come a long way from the old days of exhaust pipes and mufflers. Today, the exhaust system is safety and emissions control rolled into one. Your vehicle's exhaust system consists of one or more mufflers, one or more oxygen (O2) sensors, one or more catalytic converters, a tail pipe and an exhaust pipe.

The exhaust system routes dangerous exhaust gas from the engine out and away from the car to keep from affecting the occupants. Next, the exhaust system reduces exhaust noise from the engine. The catalytic converter reduces the level of harmful pollutants in the exhaust. Finally, the oxygen sensors mounted in the exhaust system monitor the level of oxygen in the exhaust gases to maintain efficient engine operation and monitor the converter's operation.

"Have your car's exhaust system inspected regularly," said Rich White, executive director, Car Care Council. "If you have any suspicions of a leak or any problems, have it checked out at once."

According to the Car Care Council, several factors impact the need to replace exhaust system parts, including: driving habits (short trips take their toll on exhaust system life), road conditions (salt, road spray and bumps), vehicle type and the age of exhaust system parts.

Symptoms of Exhaust System Wear:

• Loud noise
• Rattling noise when starting, accelerating or braking
• Drowsiness while driving

About the Car Care Council:

The Car Care Council is the source of information for the "Be Car Care Aware" consumer education campaign promoting the benefits of regular vehicle care, maintenance and repair to consumers. For a copy of the council's Car Care Guide or for more information, visit www.carcare.org.

SOURCE Car Care Council