How to care for the exhaust system?

The exhaust system is an element that is exposed to numerous hazards. The first threat from which we can not really protect it, but we delay its operation is rust.

WHY RUST?

The reason for the appearance of rust on the exhaust system is primarily the material from which it was made or sheet metal. In addition, the very unfavorable conditions of his work – high temperature, dust, impurities getting from the asphalt and perhaps the most devastating factor – salt from the road during the winter. The result of all this is the accelerated oxidation process of the sheet.

FROM WHAT IT WILL START?

At first, rust attacks the most weakened components of the exhaust system, which are joints and vibration eliminators. The next fragments exposed to the “attack of rust” are muffler boxes. The element that is relatively durable and resistant to rust is the exhaust manifold and the catalyst. The lifetime of the exhaust system is a minimum of 5 years or 120,000 kilometers.

The simplest and the most effective method of caring for the exhaust system is its regular washing. Why? Because only regular removal of dirt on the exhaust system is able to extend its lifespan. The process is particularly important after the winter period and before autumn. In addition, when deciding to clean the exhaust system, do not forget about thorough cleaning of the body. Remember, however, not to do its washing immediately after extinguishing the drive unit, because the exhaust system will be warmed up, and a cold bath instead of helping can harm it.

And why not paint?

Painting the exhaust system in order to protect it from the rusting process is not a simple and quite a good solution. The use of ordinary paint is pointless, because the exhaust system during its operation reaches high temperatures, so that the use of ordinary paint will lead to its burning, which will result in a very unpleasant odor. To make sense, you need to use a “stove” paint that is resistant to high temperatures. Coating using this paint is actually a layer of small aluminum filings or other metal. Its durability is estimated due to the material used and the appropriate application for several several months. Remember that the use of such a coating only makes sense when the exhaust system does not bear traces of the appearance of rust.

WHAT WITH PARTICLE FILTER?

Currently, the most important element of the exhaust system in diesel engines is the diesel particulate filter, commonly referred to as DPF / FAP. He is responsible for the retention of soot particles resulting from the combustion of fuel. Unfortunately, the work of the filter leads to its clogging, and hence its firing is required. In most cars the filter firing process is fully automated, however the driver should be aware of how the car behaves during this process. Why? To avoid sudden engine shutdown, which will result in the firing process being interrupted. Of course, a single interrupt will have no effect on the filter’s condition, but when this process is repeated, we will be forced to filter the filter in service mode.

Caring for the exhaust system is very important, so during every visit to the mechanic, let’s ask the professional to look at the exhaust system, and if there is rust, immediately repair it. Only this approach will allow us to avoid problems with the exhaust system.