Petrol and diesel drivers face enormous £1,500 charges with 'imperative' checks needed
Replacing the exhaust could cost up to £1,500
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Drivers are being warned of massive repair and replacement costs this winter if they fail to make any changes to their car cleaning habits.
With winter setting in and temperatures dropping, experts are calling on drivers to clean their exhausts before the cold weather sets in.
The harsh conditions can expose exhausts to ice, snow, road grit, potholes and speed bumps, causing them to erode and become less efficient.
When National Highways and local authorities grit the roads to melt any snow and ice, the deposits could be corroded if it has accumulated deposits.
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By cleaning the exhaust regularly, it can increase the lifespan of the vehicle, as well as make the performance of the car more efficient.
The repair and replacement costs for a driver depend on a number of factors including the amount of damage, the make and model of their car and their location.
If drivers are lucky and there is only a bit of damage, the cost could be between £100 and £300.
This could be to fix small problems like broken hangers or tiny holes, although these prices could fluctuate.
Drivers may need to have their exhaust replaced if it has sustained significant damage or severe corrosion.
Depending on the car, a new exhaust system may cost between £300 and £1,500, with prices rising further than that when taking labour and components into account.
Drivers can tell if they are having any issues with their exhausts if they hear their engine get louder, which could be a roaring or hissing noise.
Excessive vibrations or rattling can be caused by loose or damaged exhaust system parts like hangers or brackets.
Other signs of harm include thick smoke coming from the exhaust which could potentially show a broken catalytic converter or internal engine issue.
Rob Prantl, owner of Wessex Vans, urged motorists to make sure they are not needlessly spending money if they damage their exhausts.
He said: “For an exact estimate of repair or replacement costs and to ascertain the degree of any damage, it is imperative that you get your exhaust system evaluated by a qualified mechanic.
“Your exhaust system's lifespan may be increased and the need for pricey repairs can be decreased with routine cleaning and maintenance.
“Prevention is always better and cheaper than the cure when it comes to car repairs and maintenance, so ensuring you carry out the necessary checks and upkeep prior to and during the winter could save you a costly repair job when it comes to your vehicle’s exhaust.”
When cleaning the exhaust, motorists are advised to use a cleaning solution that may be recommended by the manufacturer.
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Drivers are being urged to clean their car exhausts
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The outside of the exhaust pipe should be sprayed or otherwise treated with the cleaner, followed by the driver rinsing and wiping the pipe afterward.
Drivers should then check the exhaust for any obvious damage like corrosion or holes. If these are present after cleaning it, motorists may need to repair or replace it if the damage is noticeable.
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