Exhaust & Emission part descriptions
A - F
Air Pump
The air pump adds air to the exhaust to reduce pollutants. Signs of a bad air pump include illuminated check engine light, failed emissions inspection, rough engine running, reduced power, and strange noises. Repairing a faulty air pump is best left to professionals.
Air Pump Check Valve
The air pump check valve is a one-way valve that allows air from the air pump to enter the exhaust system. Symptoms of a failing valve include a Check Engine Light and failed emissions inspection. Trouble codes may also indicate issues with air passages, the pump, relay, or wiring.
Canister Vent Valve
The canister purge valve recycles stored fuel vapours from the containment canister back into the engine combustion process. A malfunctioning valve may cause the Check Engine Light to illuminate and result in rougher than normal engine idle.
Catalytic Converter
The catalytic converter converts harmful gases into less toxic substances. It contains precious metals and is located near the engine. Signs of failure include check engine light, failed emissions test, unusual exhaust smell, reduced engine power, and rattling noise.
Charcoal Canister
The charcoal canister uses activated charcoal to trap and store harmful fuel vapours, preventing their release into the atmosphere. When the engine runs, these vapours are purged and burned in the engine.
EGR Cooler
The EGR (Exhaust Gas Recirculation) Cooler reduces engine emissions by cooling and recirculating exhaust gases back into the combustion chamber. This process lowers combustion temperatures, reducing nitrogen oxide emissions. The cooler can fail due to clogging or leaks, potentially causing engine performance issues.
EGR Position Sensor
The EGR Position Sensor monitors the position of the exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) valve and sends signals to the engine control computer. It’s often integrated into the EGR valve itself. Symptoms of failure include illuminated Check Engine Light, erratic idle, lack of power, and emissions failure.
EGR Temperature Sensor
The EGR Temperature Sensor is an electrical sensing probe that monitors exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) temperature and transmits this data to the engine control computer. Symptoms of a failing sensor include illuminated Check Engine Light, engine pinging during acceleration, and emissions failure.
EGR Vacuum Solenoid
The EGR Vacuum Solenoid is an electronic vacuum valve that distributes engine vacuum to the EGR valve as commanded by the computer. Symptoms of a failing solenoid include illuminated Check Engine Light, engine “pinging” on acceleration, and emissions failure. Proper inspection of related vacuum hoses is crucial when replacing this component.
EGR Valve
The Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR) valve regulates exhaust gas flow into the engine intake manifold, reducing emissions and combustion temperatures. It operates under specific conditions and can be vacuum-operated or electronically-controlled. A malfunctioning EGR valve can cause various engine performance issues, including rough idle, stalling, and increased emissions.
Evaporative Emission Control (EVAP) System
A vehicle component that captures gasoline fumes and emissions from fuel evaporation in the gas tank or fuel system. It returns these vapours to the combustion process, preventing harmful chemicals from reaching the air when the vehicle is not running.
Evaporative Leak Detection Pump
The Evaporative Leak Detection Pump is a component of a vehicle’s emission control system. It pressurises the fuel system, allowing the engine computer to detect leaks that may release gas vapours. A malfunctioning pump can cause the Check Engine Light to illuminate and potentially lead to failed smog tests.
Exhaust Down Pipe
The exhaust down pipe is a crucial component of a vehicle’s exhaust system, connecting the exhaust manifold to the catalytic converter. It channels hot exhaust gases away from the engine, reducing noise and emissions. This part is susceptible to corrosion and may require replacement if damaged.
Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR) System
The Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR) System reduces nitrogen oxide emissions by recirculating a portion of exhaust gases back into the engine’s combustion chambers. This process lowers combustion temperatures, resulting in decreased harmful emissions and improved fuel efficiency.
Exhaust Gas Recirculation Valve Gasket
The Exhaust Gas Recirculation Valve Gasket is a heat-resistant component that seals the EGR valve’s connection to the exhaust system. It plays a crucial role in preventing exhaust leaks. When failing, it may cause symptoms like illuminated Check Engine Light, erratic idle, emissions failure, and exhaust leaks.
Exhaust Manifold
The exhaust manifold routes spent gases from the engine to the exhaust system. It’s typically made of cast iron, heavy-duty sheet metal, or stainless steel. When failing, it can cause noise, illuminate the check engine light, decrease engine performance, increase fuel consumption and emissions, and produce an exhaust smell.
Exhaust Manifold Gasket
The exhaust manifold gasket is a crucial seal between the exhaust manifold and cylinder head. Signs of failure include ticking noises, unusual exhaust smells, Check Engine Light activation, and potential emissions test failures. Proper replacement is essential to prevent exhaust leaks and ensure accurate oxygen sensor readings.
Exhaust Tailpipe
The exhaust tailpipe is the final component of a vehicle’s exhaust system, responsible for directing cleaned and quieted exhaust gases from the muffler to the rear of the vehicle, where they are released into the atmosphere. It plays a crucial role in managing engine noise and ensuring proper exhaust flow.
Fuel Tank Pressure Sensor
The fuel tank pressure sensor monitors pressure inside the fuel tank, helping identify leaks, detect faulty gas caps, and ensure proper operation of the evaporative emissions system. It’s crucial for fuel consumption management and emissions compliance. A malfunctioning sensor typically triggers the check engine light.