My car's exhaust makes a metallic noise, is it serious ?

While driving, you notice a metallic noise coming out of your car... At first, you think that this auditory discomfort could be coming from the engine, and you get scared. Finally, the noise comes from under the car. Logically: the exhaust system of your car is responsible for this noise. What are the possible causes of this noise ? What if it was the catalytic converter that needed to be replaced ? In this article, we will propose you to diagnose the reason of this metallic noise... Before a breakdown occurs!

Inspect your exhaust system.

Even without a great deal of mechanical knowledge, it is workable to diagnose or at least eliminate, some possible hypotheses regarding this metallic noise on your vehicle's exhaust line. If your car is elevated (SUV for example) , you will certainly be capable to slide meticulously over it. In this case, you will have to jack your vehicle up with a jack and use candles. As a reminder, you should never go under a car simply mounted on a jack! Then start the inspection. 
Locate the intermediate and rear silencers. These are thick cylinders located in the middle and rear of the car. Are they damaged ? Are they punctured ? If so, this may be the source of the noise.

If not, you can also try moving the exhaust line when your car has been stationary for a few hours. If there is a movement of several centimeters, then it is possible that an exhaust mount is worn. Or a silent block (an element designed to absorb vibrations) may have been pulled out of its place or torn. Also check to see if the braid (which is a flexible hose) is unpunctured. It is placed after the catalytic converter. In many cases, it is this element that gives way and generates unpleasant vibrations, producing a metallic noise, especially when cold.

Do you want to know if your Catalytic Converter is Bad ? Do you want to know if your DPF is clogged ?

What if it was the catalytic converter ?

After eliminating the various causes listed above, it is advisable to present your vehicle to a professional. Indeed, the breakdown may come from the catalytic converter. Just like opaque smoke, the metallic noise on the exhaust line can indicate a clogged and out of order catalytic converter. Over time, the catalytic converter becomes irreversibly clogged. Although it depends on the type of vehicle and driving conditions, the life of this emission control device is typically about 120,000 kilometers.

If the catalytic converter needs to be replaced, we invite you to consult our selection of low-priced catalytic converters. At Krosfou, we produce our own catalysts. Our objective: to offer quality products at prices well below those charged by garages. Enter the make and model of your car at the top of the page to find a cheap quality catalytic converter.