The service life of the exhaust system depends on the operating conditions. When driving mainly short distances, condensation, soot and corrosive acids form inside the system to a greater extent than when driving long distances with a well-heated engine.
1. The exhaust manifold with catalytic converter is the least susceptible to corrosion compared to other parts, since exhaust gases still pass through here with temperatures from +800°C to + 1000°C.
2. Exhaust gases are strongly cooled in the resonator and muffler, their temperature reaches +150...+300°C. The muffler accumulates the most condensate. It mixes with fuel combustion residues to form aggressive acids, which «are eating away» muffler metal from the inside.
3. Front exhaust system components can be damaged by thermal stress during long trips when rain hits hot metal. This may cause the material to tear or break.
4. Splashes of water and road treatment fluids in winter contribute to corrosion on the outside. Hitting rocks or hard ground will also shorten the life of the system, as will vibration if the muffler suspension system is damaged.