Introduction
Upgrading your exhaust system is a popular and effective way to enhance both vehicle performance and aesthetics. However, navigating the vast world of aftermarket emissions equipment can be a bit overwhelming. In this blog, we’ll explore valuable advice from our industry experts to help you make informed decisions regarding longevity and performance.
Delaying the need for a new system
Extending the service life of your exhaust system is a combination of conscientious driving habits, regular maintenance, and proactive measures. These strategies help to minimise the risk of damage and keep your vehicle performing at its best.
Regularly cleaning your exhaust system ensures it stays in peak condition, especially during the winter months when road salt and debris can accelerate corrosion. A clean system is less prone to rust, extending the lifespan of components. Additionally, automotive detailing services may offer protective treatments specifically designed to shield your system from corrosion.
Thermal shock occurs when a material undergoes sudden temperature changes, causing stress and potential structural damage. Catalytic converters operate at high temperatures during normal driving, but rapid and extreme changes in temperature can cause fractures, cracks, or other structural damage to the internals (monolith) of the catalytic converter. This compromises its ability to efficiently convert pollutants, potentially leading to increased emissions. Some preventative measures include:
- Avoid driving through deep water
- Practice smooth driving habits, avoiding abrupt acceleration or deceleration as this helps maintain more consistent temperatures
- Allow your vehicle to idle for a minute before turning off so the catalytic converter can cool down gradually
As mentioned above, aggressive driving behaviours such as frequent hard braking, sudden acceleration, and sharp turning can subject the system to excessive stress, leading to premature wear and tear on components like the muffler, catalytic converter, mountings and exhaust pipes. Additionally, obstacles in the road such as speed bumps and debris, especially when hit at high speeds, can inflict direct physical damage to the system. The constant vibration and jostling experienced during driving also weakens components over time, leading to leaks, fractures, or disconnections. While it’s challenging to entirely avoid damage, there are several steps you can take to reduce the risk:
- Approach speed bumps cautiously to lessen the impact on the vehicle underside
- Drive responsibly, adopting smooth and controlled habits minimises the likelihood of damage from aggressive manoeuvres
- Routinely inspect your exhaust system for signs of damage or wear and address any issues promptly to prevent further deterioration
When to get help
If you notice any unusual noises, such as hissing or rattling, or detect a strong smell, it may indicate an exhaust leak. Promptly addressing leaks prevents any harmful gases from entering your car interior, safeguarding your health. Furthermore, a leaky exhaust will result in a failed MOT. Loud banging or clattering from the underside of the car is another thing to keep an ear out for. If you suspect a leak or are unsure of the source of the issue, it’s advisable to seek the expertise of a qualified professional to ensure an accurate diagnosis and proper resolution of the problem.
Why Quality Matters?
When it comes to replacing your exhaust, it’s important to choose quality parts for your vehicle. We have found that while regular maintenance is essential, the quality of the exhaust system and its components play a pivotal role in determining its lifespan and overall performance. Sadly, an inferior exhaust can’t be overcome with regular maintenance procedures.
Through the experience of a customer of ours, we will explore the consequences of low-quality exhaust systems, and showcase the transformative effects of investing in a new, higher quality alternative.
The consequences of an inferior exhaust
Below we have included pictures of an aftermarket exhaust system from another manufacturer that a customer had previously fitted on their vehicle. Within 12 months of driving, they required a replacement due to poor quality.
Upon inspection, our team discovered that the system had succumbed to corrosion and rust, despite the customer’s sensible driving, good maintenance practices and mainly motorway journeys, which allowed the system to gradually reach operating temperature for sustained periods of time. Clearly, the low quality of the exhaust was to blame for the premature degradation. This left the customer with unexpected repair costs much earlier than anticipated and a compromised exhaust system which negatively impacted their vehicle’s performance.
Given the severity of the damage and the safety implications of driving with a system in this condition, we advise opting for a higher-quality exhaust system to steer clear of any unwanted complications, especially in terms of safety and cost.
This customer’s experience highlights the importance of prioritising quality when it comes to vehicle maintenance and repairs, particularly for critical components such as the exhaust system. Choosing inferior parts may seem cost-effective in the short term, but the long-term consequences can far outweigh any initial savings. By investing in high-quality aftermarket parts, drivers can ensure the longevity, performance, and safety of their vehicles, ultimately saving time, money, and frustration in the long run.
Choose quality, choose Klarius
Klarius strives to bring quality emissions control equipment to its customers. With a focus on consistently high manufacturing standards, Klarius’ range of products goes through rigorous testing in order to achieve quality that matches the OE equivalent as a minimum. In line with Klarius’ commitment to quality, we offer a 2-year warranty and a ‘Fit First Time’ guarantee with all products.
Our dedicated research and development team works tirelessly to deliver the best quality emissions systems to our customers and continuous investment into the future means we will offer the highest level of quality for years to come!
To find out more about what Klarius has to offer follow the link below!
www.klarius.eu
