Exhaust & Emission part descriptions
G - Z
Gaskets
Gaskets are thin seals made of various materials that prevent leaks between two mating surfaces in a vehicle. They are crucial components found in engines, transmissions, and other systems, ensuring proper sealing of fluids and gases under different pressures and temperatures.
Intake Manifold
The intake manifold distributes air (and sometimes fuel) from outside the car to individual cylinders. It attaches to the cylinder head with a gasket, sealing air, coolant, and oil passages. A faulty intake manifold can cause various issues, including coolant leaks, poor engine performance, and overheating.
Intake Manifold Control Runner
The Intake Manifold Control Runner is a system that improves engine performance and efficiency by controlling airflow into the engine. It uses butterfly valves to adjust the length and width of intake runners, optimising power output at different RPM ranges. Failure can lead to poor engine performance, reduced fuel economy, and illuminated check engine lights.
Intake Manifold Gasket
The intake manifold gasket is a crucial seal between the intake manifold and cylinder head(s). It can fail, causing coolant or oil leaks, triggering the Check Engine Light, and creating an unstable idle. Replacement is often necessary, with some vehicles having both upper and lower gaskets.
Knock Sensor
A small but crucial component that detects engine knocking or pinging caused by abnormal combustion. It sends signals to the car’s computer, which adjusts ignition timing to prevent engine damage. Signs of a faulty knock sensor include engine pinging, check engine light, reduced acceleration power, and poor fuel economy.
Muffler
The muffler is designed to reduce engine noise. It typically lasts 5-7 years and works by using reactive or absorptive designs to decrease sound waves through chambers, baffles, and resonators. A faulty muffler can cause increased noise, engine misfires, and reduced fuel economy.
Oxygen Sensor
The oxygen sensor compares oxygen levels in the exhaust to ambient air, generating voltage signals that help the engine computer adjust the air-fuel mixture. It’s crucial for engine performance, fuel economy, and emissions control. Faulty sensors can cause check engine lights, poor performance, and reduced fuel efficiency.
Resonator
The resonator acts as an echo chamber to create a pleasing exhaust note. It cancels out specific sound frequencies produced by the engine, altering but not reducing overall noise. Resonators are often integrated with mufflers in modern cars.
Secondary Air Injection System
The Secondary Air Injection System is designed to reduce exhaust emissions by pumping fresh air into the exhaust system. It can inject air at one or more locations, depending on the vehicle model. Modern systems typically use an electric pump and may incorporate computer-controlled switching valves for efficient operation.
Secondary Air System
The Secondary Air System injects fresh air into the exhaust system to reduce harmful emissions. It helps oxidise unburned fuel and carbon monoxide, converting them into less harmful substances before they exit the tailpipe.
Throttle Position Sensor
The Throttle Position Sensor (TPS) monitors the throttle valve position, relaying information to the engine’s computer. It affects fuel calculations, acceleration, and engine performance. Symptoms of a failing TPS include check engine light, poor acceleration, jerking, stalling, and reduced fuel economy.