Exhaust Leak
Ticking that fades as the engine warms, hissing or a loud rumble indicates a leak at the manifold, a gasket or a pipe.
Can I drive it? Drive with care
Exhaust fumes are hazardous. Get it fixed promptly.
Typical repair cost
$100-$300 for a gasket, $300-$900 for a manifold, $150-$500 for a pipe.
General US estimates, not quotes. Prices vary by region, vehicle and shop.
Symptoms to Look For
These signs indicate you might be experiencing this issue
- Loud exhaust noise, especially on acceleration
- Ticking or popping sound from under car
- Exhaust fumes smell in cabin
- Possible loss of power
Potential Causes
Most likely reasons for this problem, sorted by probability
Repair Solutions
Step-by-step instructions to diagnose and fix the problem
1Find and Fix Exhaust Leak
- 1
Start engine and listen for leaks
- 2
Feel for exhaust pulses at connections
- 3
Use soapy water to find leaks (bubbles form)
- 4
Tighten loose connections
- 5
Replace damaged pipes or gaskets
Need professional help?
Find a repair shop near you, or describe your exact symptoms to the AI mechanic
When to See a Mechanic
Do not wait if any of these apply
- Exhaust smell in the cabin
- Lean-mixture codes
- Loud ticking from the engine
How to Prevent It
Simple habits that stop this problem coming back
- Inspect the exhaust at oil changes
- Replace rusted parts early
- Torque exhaust bolts to spec
Frequently Asked Questions
Can an exhaust leak cause a check engine light?
Yes. A leak near an O2 sensor distorts its readings and can set codes.
Why is it louder when cold?
Metal expands as it heats and can seal small cracks.
Related Trouble Codes
Codes a scan tool may show with this problem
Related Issues
AI-generated and informational only. This is not a diagnosis of your specific vehicle and does not replace inspection by a qualified technician.