Exhaust Systems & Muffler Repair
Exhaust Systems & Muffler Repair
While your vehicle’s exhaust system is, in part, designed to reduce engine noise. It also reduces harmful exhaust gas emissions. A healthy exhaust system and muffler not only sound better, they are better – for your car, for you, and for the environment.
Your exhaust system starts at the front of your car, where your exhaust manifolds connect to the cylinder heads. There they collect exhaust gases produced by the engine. As these gases move through the exhaust system, they’re first analyzed by oxygen sensors. Then they are refined by the catalytic converter and, finally, muffled by the muffler. By the time the exhaust gases leave your vehicle your emission system has made your car run smoother, cleaner, and quieter.
Any one of these components can fail and affect everything from your gas mileage to the air you breath. All in all it’s a pretty complex system, however our emissions and muffler repair experts can diagnose the problem and get you right back behind the wheel.
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How do I add a new question & answer?To add a new FAQ follow these steps: 1. Click “Manage FAQs” button 2. From your site’s dashboard you can add, edit and manage all your questions and answers 3. Each question and answer should be added to a category 4. Save and publish.
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I hear a grinding noise when I step on the brakes. Should I be concerned?Whether it’s a squeal or a grind, brake noise means the brake system needs some attention. Bring your vehicle to Cowichan Auto Repair, and we’ll be happy to take a look.
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My brake pedal feels spongy. Why?If you have to press the brake pedal farther or harder than usual to stop, there could be a hydraulic or mechanical brake problem. We suggest you bring your car in for a brake inspection as soon as you can.
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How often should I change my brake fluid?The most accurate answer is as often as your owner’s manual suggests. Some manufacturers recommend new brake fluid as often as every two years. You also need to change your brake fluid if it contains too much copper. Copper is measured in parts per million, and the industry-accepted limit is 200 ppm. Any more than that and the fluid no longer meets design specifications and should be replaced.
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The car pulls to the right or left when I step on the brakes. Why?You may have a hydraulic brake problem, a mechanical problem, or a steering or chassis issue. A thorough inspection will tell us for sure.
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Do I have to change my brake fluid?You don’t have to change your brake fluid, but consider this: When the brake fluid shows signs of high levels of copper content, the additives in the brake fluid are breaking down. This increases acid levels, and causes erosion of parts and possible damage to Anti-Lock Brake System components. Today’s anti-lock brake systems are expensive – some parts cost thousands of dollars, not including labor. Changing your brake fluid protects this investment.
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My car shakes when I hit the brakes. What's going on?It’s possibly a sign that your rotors need attention, but we’ll know for sure once we take a look.
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I only have 15,000 kms on my car and my brakes are squeaking. Do I need new brakes already?Probably not, but whether it’s a squeal or a grind, brake noise means the brake system needs some attention. Bring your vehicle to Cowichan Auto Repair, and we’ll be happy to take a look.
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How long do brake pads and rotors last?All brake pads and rotors wear down. The rate at which this happens depends on your driving style. Cars that drive in town with lots of stop-and-goes will consume brake friction material much faster than cars that drive primarily on highways. Vehicle loads are the other factor. The heavier your car is, the more braking power it requires to stop.