2017 Ram 1500 - Exhaust Manifold

Symptoms of an Exhaust Manifold Leak

The exhaust manifold or exhaust header bolts to the cylinder head of an engine to collect and channel the exhaust gasses produced by the engine into the exhaust system. Exhaust manifolds gather the hot, pressurized exhaust gasses from each cylinder and combine them into a single outlet. This consolidation of gasses improves the efficiency of the exhaust system and allows for more effective transmission of the exhaust emissions through other components, such as the catalytic converter, muffler, and more. Heat shields or thermal insulation may also be used to provide additional protection to nearby components from the heat generated by the exhaust manifold. Over time, the exhaust manifold can develop cracks, leaks, or other forms of damage due to thermal stress, vibrations, or corrosion. When these issues occur, it is crucial to repair or replace the exhaust manifold to ensure proper engine and exhaust system performance, as exhaust leaks can negatively impact operation, fuel efficiency, and emissions control. If you notice a ticking sound near the exhaust manifold, this may point to an exhaust leak. Leaks from the exhaust manifold can also be caused by the deterioration of the exhaust manifold gasket or a crack in the manifold, so be sure to properly inspect these components for signs of failure. You may also notice engine sputtering, odors coming from the exhaust, an illuminated Check Engine warning light, or decreased power, acceleration, and fuel efficiency caused by inadequate exhaust back pressure. Repairing your exhaust manifold and replacing the manifold gaskets not only helps keep your engine running its best, but also reduces the risk of leaking exhaust fumes entering the cabin. When you're ready to repair your exhaust system, O'Reilly Auto Parts carries replacement exhaust manifolds, exhaust manifold gaskets, and other exhaust components for a variety of vehicles.