Exhaust Manifold Repair

What the manifold does

The exhaust manifold collects hot waste gases from the engine’s cylinders and routes them into the exhaust system and out the tailpipe. Depending on the vehicle, it is either a set of individual pipes or a cast iron assembly.

Why they leak

Constant expansion and contraction from extreme temperature changes can eventually crack the manifold. Sometimes a mounting bolt breaks instead. A broken bolt or stud must be removed, which adds labor time.

Symptoms

• A ticking or tapping noise, often loudest on a cold start
• Loud noise from the engine
• Loss of performance
• Check engine light
• Strange smells, such as nearby plastic parts melting

How we repair it

We first confirm the manifold is cracked or broken, then remove it, inspect the studs, clean off carbon deposits and the old gasket, and install the new gasket and manifold. Afterward, we start the engine and check for leaks.

Escaping hot gas can melt nearby plastic and creates a fire concern. A leak near the firewall can let exhaust fumes into the cabin, so have it checked promptly.