The service life of the exhaust system as a whole depends on the operating conditions of the vehicle. With frequent short trips, the deposition of condensate and aggressive substances inside the system increases significantly, which can lead to through corrosion from the inside. Long trips with the engine reaching operating temperature and favorable conditions for combustion of the fuel-air mixture reduce the corrosive components in the exhaust gas. In addition, solid particles deposited on the internal walls of the system burn at high operating temperatures. External corrosion occurs under the influence of water and salts. A loose engine mount causes increased engine vibrations, which are transmitted to the fixed connections of both exhaust pipes and then to the entire system.
Therefore, from time to time, in order to prevent possible serious malfunctions, it is necessary to inspect the exhaust system as follows:
- check the threaded connections and fastenings of the exhaust manifold, but if loose fastenings are found, do not tighten them too much;
- check the rubber bearings for possible breaks, cracks and other damage, replace if found;
- when the engine is running, cover the exhaust pipe with a rag. If the engine stops, the exhaust system is sealed. On the contrary, a hissing sound will indicate the location of a possible leak;
- if the exhaust has a dull sound, it will soon be necessary to replace the muffler.
The catalytic converter is installed at the front of the exhaust system. Inside, it usually has a fine-mesh structure of metal or ceramics through which the exhaust gases pass. The cells are coated with platinum or another similar metal, which reacts and neutralizes harmful substances. The neutralizer is equipped with a lambda probe, which determines the carbon monoxide content in the exhaust gas and transmits this information to the fuel injection system controller. The electronics react to this by changing the composition of the mixture.
Removal and installation are not too difficult. The following points should be noted:
- disconnect the exhaust manifold mount as described above;
- secure the heat shield with clamps;
- it is better to replace rubber suspensions that look unsatisfactory.
The gasket between the dual exhaust manifold pipe and the catalytic converter must always be replaced when removed.
When tightening the connections of the system pipes, it is necessary to fit them tightly to each other. Do not overtighten the fastening nuts.
On the 2.9L engine, the exhaust system also includes a turbocharger, an intercooler, and an exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) system. These components are described below.