How Exhaust Issues Affect Fuel Efficiency and Emissions in Your Volvo

Are you curious about why your Volvo is not as fuel-efficient as it was when you first purchased it? The answer may lie in the exhaust system. Exhaust system issues not only affect the fuel economy but also increase emissions. Let’s find out how exhaust issues affect the performance of your Volvo.

The Exhaust System and Its Role

The exhaust system in your Volvo has a critical job: it expels noxious fumes from the engine, transforms them into less toxic compounds, and cuts down noise. Some of the components in this system are the exhaust manifold, catalytic converter, oxygen sensors, and muffler. When working properly, these parts allow the vehicle to operate smoothly, economically, and in compliance with environmental requirements.

Fuel Efficiency and Exhaust System

Fuel economy is the measure of how efficiently the vehicle utilizes fuel to drive the engine. However, when there is a problem with the exhaust system, this efficiency can be lost and therefore cause higher fuel consumption. Here’s how specific exhaust problems can affect fuel efficiency.

• Leaking Exhaust Manifold: If the exhaust manifold is leaking, it affects the balance of air to fuel ratio in your Volvo. The air and fuel mixture will be richer (more fuel than air) which means more fuel is being burnt. It also creates an imbalance which puts more load on the engine and the overall efficiency is affected.
• Faulty Oxygen Sensors: Oxygen sensors detect the concentration of oxygen in the exhaust gasses and relay this to the ECU. It then alters the air-to-fuel mixture with the help of the ECU. Damaged sensors can provide wrong information to the ECU and can make it pump in more fuel which is not good for fuel economy.
• Clogged Catalytic Converter: The catalytic converter works to lessen toxic emissions by converting them into less toxic gasses. Eventually, it may accumulate a lot of dirt that may hinder the flow of exhaust gasses from the engine. This restricts the airflow into the engine and the engine has to struggle to push the air, which in the process uses more fuel.
• Damaged Muffler: The muffler is designed to minimize the noise made by the exhaust gasses, and therefore any problem with it results in unwarranted exit of exhaust gasses. This can also impact the performance of the engine and the fuel consumption because the gasses may not be expelled efficiently.

How Exhaust Systems Failure Cause Emissions

Emissions are gaseous products that are released into the environment by the exhaust system. It is important to keep these emissions as low as possible not only for environmental purposes but also because many locations have strict emission standards. A faulty exhaust system may force your Volvo to release more dangerous gasses including carbon monoxide, nitrogen oxides, and hydrocarbons. Here’s how exhaust issues impact emissions:

• Increased Pollutants: When the catalytic converter is defective your Volvo will not be able to perform the function of converting toxic emissions into less toxic compounds. Therefore, there are chances that your car may emit more carbon monoxide and other hazardous gasses.
• Failed Emissions Test: Emission tests are necessary in many regions. Any issues with the exhaust system may result in failure in these tests and can attract fines or have to make corrections to pass a retest which may be very expensive.
• Health Hazards: A hole in the exhaust means that toxic fumes from the engine can get into the car and endanger your life and that of your passengers. Some of the effects that can be a result of exposure to carbon monoxide and other exhaust products include headaches, dizziness, and nausea among others.

Come To The Reputable Volvo Mechanics In Bellingham

Welcome to Bruce Cox Imports – the best auto repair shop in Bellingham serving Volvo and other European vehicles since 1995. Our team of professional technicians has the right tools and expertise to diagnose and repair your automobile exhaust irrespective of the problem it is facing. We not only cater to drivers in Bellingham but also those from Ferndale and Lynden, WA. If you have any concerns about your Volvo’s exhaust system or you just want to get your car back to its best, our team is ready to help. Contact us now for your next Volvo exhaust check.