For most of us, a car is considered an extension of our lives. We will not be able to carry out our day-to-day functions without it. From going to work to running errands, it provides a convenient mode of transportation. Because of this, it is important to make sure that the car remains in its best condition. To do so, you have to rely on the help of a mechanic.

A mechanic can come in handy in a number of situations, from diagnosing a specific problem to having it resolved the best way possible. Nonetheless, a mechanic may not tell you everything. Here are the 10 secrets your mechanic doesn’t want you to know.

1. The mechanic might be using scare tactics.
2. The mechanic might not be certified.
3. Asking questions can help you.
4. Not to sign a blank authorization form.
5. The mechanic should have a scan tool and engine analyzer.
6. Synthetic Oil is more expensive
7. Don’t tell the mechanic you are asking for a second opinion.
8. Services that you do not need.
9. Free Lifetime muffler replacement.
10. Ask for the build date of the tire.

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1. The Use of Scare Tactics

Have you ever brought your car to a mechanic, and have you been told that you can no longer drive it even for a single mile? Has your mechanic acted like he was concerned about your safety only to push you to have your car immediately repaired? Chances are, the mechanic is using scare tactics.

Mechanics earn from doing repairs on your vehicle. Therefore, they might resort to scare tactics just so that you will be forced to leave your car and allow them to execute the repair job. Do not be afraid to ask for a second opinion from another mechanic in your neighborhood.

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2. The Mechanic Might Not be Certified

Being a mechanic is a job that can generate a steady stream of income, which is why a lot of people tend to do it without the necessary qualifications. Some mechanics may not be licensed to do their jobs, but they will try to hide it from you just so that they can earn more money.

Make sure that the mechanic has a National Institute for Automotive Association Service Excellence Certification or American Automobile Association Certification. See to it as well that the mechanic has the license to operate to be confident that the person has the required skills.

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3. Ask Questions

Ask, ask, ask – this is what you should do when you are in front of a mechanic. The mechanic may try to keep secrets from you, but if you know how to ask the right questions, no secrets will be left unrevealed. Show the mechanic that you know the things that you are talking about.

Before deciding to work with the mechanic, ask a couple of questions, such as how long they have been doing their job and an estimate of the costs that are involved. Their response to your questions will also help you to determine if you are working with the right person.

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4. Do Not Sign a Blank Authorization Form

This may sound stupid, but there are actually people who would sign a blank authorization form. Once your signature is affixed, this means that you are giving them the authority to do anything they want and charge you ridiculous prices.

The authorization form must clearly specify the problem with your car and the repair job that will be needed. This will also show the price of the job. This is a binding document, so be sure to review it carefully before you have it signed.

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5. The Mechanic Should have a Scan Tool and Engine Analyzer.

Even if the mechanic is trained for the job, he most probably cannot tell a lot of problems with just a look at the engine. If the mechanic is able to tell the problem without using any tool, do not trust the findings. Chances are, these are inaccurate.

The mechanic must invest in a scan tool and engine analyzer. The latter are handy tools that can be used to determine a problem easily. If they say that they do not need these special tools to repair their car, this is a sign that you should leave and find another person to carry out the job.

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6. Synthetic Oil is More Expensive

If you are going to a mechanic for an oil change, chances are, you will be told that synthetic oil is the better choice for your car. Yes, it is true, especially because it has improved mileage. Nonetheless, what the mechanic may not tell you is that synthetic oil is costly.

Before the oil change, do not hesitate to ask about the price that you have to pay. As much as possible, ask it to be put in writing. If the mechanic suggests using synthetic oil, you must already know that it is going to cost you more.

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7. Don’t Tell the Mechanic you are Asking for a Second Opinion.

If you suspect that the mechanic is not being honest with you, do not hesitate to drive away and go to another mechanic. This is common for people who cannot believe the outrageous prices that the mechanic is charging.

When you drive to the second mechanic, however, do not tell him that you are there for a second opinion. Rather, pretend that you have not yet asked around. More importantly, do not tell the new mechanic the first price that you have been quoted.

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8. Services that you Do Not Need

Mechanics might do what it takes to milk money out of you. They might suggest different services that are actually unnecessary. They will make it appear that the job is urgent when in fact, it does not have a significant effect on the performance of the vehicle.

Among others, coolant and power steering flushes are two of the services that they might recommend. The truth is your car can run up to 100,000 miles without the need to undergo these services. They only want to earn more, which is why they are recommending these things even if they are not needed.

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9. Free Lifetime Muffler Replacement

The muffler is one part of the car that you might need to change, especially when you plan to have an upgrade. When you approach a mechanic, you might be tempted to say yes when you are offered a free lifetime replacement of the muffler.

If you say yes, you will end up paying more. This is one of the dirty tactics that they execute to make more money from you. In the end, you will still be paying a lot for pipe repairs, and you will not actually be able to save money.

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10. Ask for the Build Date of the Tire

If you are at the mechanic for a tire replacement, do not forget to ask for its build date. Of the ten secrets that we have mentioned in this post, this is perhaps the most common. When you see the new and covered tires, you might think that it is in good condition, when in fact, it is not.

Tires that have been in the storage room for more than three years can have thinner treads and can be unsafe to be driven, especially in the snow. Do not forget to ask about the build date of the tire to be assured of its reliability and safety.

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Conclusion

This post has briefly tackled the 10 secrets your mechanic doesn’t want you to know. The next time you bring your car to a mechanic, keep these things in mind, and you will never be fooled by anyone.

You do not become a skilled driver the moment you finish driving school. Great drivers are not born overnight. If you want to be better at handling your car, read the rest of this post and learn about the 10 awesome techniques to become a skilled driver. These recommendations are from experts, so you can be sure that they will indeed make you better.

Here are the 10 Awesome Techniques to Become a Skilled Driver:

1. Take a Defensive Driving Course
2. Use your Left Foot for Braking
3. Follow the Speed of the Other Vehicles
4. Position your Hands Properly on the Steering Wheel
5. Control Understeering and Oversteering
6. Park Precisely
7. Do the Handbrake Turn
8. Use Heel-Toe Downshifting
9. Be Attentive to Cars in the Distance
10. Adjust Mirrors to Get Rid of Blind Spots

If you are in a hurry to learn these techniques, watch the short video below:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PlW67bq1wcM

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1. Take a Defensive Driving Course

If you think that this applies only to beginners, you are wrong. Even if you have been driving for years, there is nothing wrong with taking a defensive driving course. This will refresh your memory about the things that you have been taught before. No one is too old or too smart for this, especially because it will let you know how to drive safer.

A lot of you may think that this is a waste of money and that this can be costly. The truth is, it is an affordable course. If you go online, you will be able to find courses that are available at affordable prices. There is no need to spend a fortune to become a defensive driver.

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2. Use your Left Foot for Braking

When you took your driving lessons, you most probably have been taught not to use your left foot when you are braking. Nonetheless, this is one thing that is practiced by auto racers, and you have a good reason to do it as well, even if you are not into racing. It is often done by racers to keep the balance of the car as power is applied.

Left-foot braking is a driving practice that is backed by science. It can significantly improve safety. As you drive, the left foot should cover the left pedal, and the right foot should cover the right pedal. When it is time to hit the brake, all that you have to do is to apply pressure on the left foot. This is going to reduce the likelihood of committing an error.

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3. Follow the Speed of the Other Vehicles

This is a basic thing that is taught in driving school, but a lot of people fail to follow it when they are on the road. Many of you would want to be the first in everything that you do, but this should not be the case when you are driving. Even if you are in a hurry, it would be best to follow the pace of the vehicles around you, so drive at the same speed as them.

Following the speed of the other vehicles is especially important when you are on a road with high vehicle density. This is going to keep you safe. Do not try to beat other drivers. After all, this is not a race track, and you are definitely not a racer.

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4. Position your Hands Properly on the Steering Wheel

Most of the people driving for a long time were taught that the left and right hand should be at 10 and 2 o’clock position respectively. Newer drivers, on the other hand, will place their hand lower, probably at 9 and 3 o’clock or 8 and 4 o’clock.

It does not matter which position you choose, as long as you are comfortable with it. At the end of the day, this is something that is a personal decision. Experiment with different hand positions and see which one will work best for your driving. Keep your hands relaxed and be focused on the road.

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5. Control Understeering and Oversteering

If you understeer, the front tire will lose its traction on the surface of the road. This can be blamed on the speed of the acceleration. On the other hand, in the case of oversteering, the rear tires will be the ones losing traction.

Especially when you are driving on wet roads or icy surfaces, you should avoid understeering and oversteering. Go at a moderate speed and have control of your steering, which will keep you safe on the road.

In cases of understeering and oversteering, take note that you should not release the brake or gas pedal too quickly.

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6. Park Precisely

Admit it; parallel parking is one of the most difficult things that you have been taught in driving school. Sadly, many people, even after years of driving, still suck at parking, especially when they are confronted with tight spaces.

To parallel park perfectly, all that you have to do is to make sure that the left mirror is aligned with the right headlight at the car on your back. Once you have mastered this technique, you will no longer have to feel nervous when you are in a crowded parking lot.

It will also be best if you invest in parking sensors. Parking will be a lot easier for you!

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7. Do the Handbrake Turn

If you have seen Hollywood movies, you have most probably seen handbrake turn as a common skill among drivers. You do not need to be in the movies to do it. It is a skill that you can learn, but you need to practice to get it perfect. It can be a handy thing to know in an emergency or if you need to perform a sharp turn.

To do the handbrake turn, all that you have to do is to lock the rear wheels, slow down the car, and point it in the right direction. This can be a lifesaver but can also cause premature wear of the tire, especially if you do it on dry asphalt roads.

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8. Use Heel-Toe Downshifting

It might seem like you are dancing hip-hop, but this is actually a useful driving skill that you need to learn. Downshifting is a skill that you need to practice when you are accelerating the car as fast as possible when you are about to exit a corner. This will make the shifts smoother while also keeping you safe.

To do heel-toe downshifting, all that you have to do is hit the gas pedal with the use of your heel and the brake with the use of your toe. This will help to reduce the time that is required for you to shift gears.

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9. Be Attentive to Cars in the Distance

Regardless of how experienced of a driver you are, this is one thing that is often missed by many people. Most are focused only on the car in its front, back, and side. Nonetheless, it will be better if you look further and think of the other cars. The more focused you are, the smoother you will be driving and the safer you will be.

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10. Adjust Mirrors to Get Rid of Blind Spots

This is another important tip that will keep you safe on the road. Look at the side mirrors. If most of what you can see are the flanks of your car, this means that you are using it wrong. As expert drivers would suggest, the side mirror should only reflect a quarter of your car. The rear-view mirror, on the other hand, should show only the rear window at the center.

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Conclusion

From the 10 awesome techniques to become a skilled driver that has been mentioned above, we hope that you were able to learn a thing or two. The next time you grab the steering wheel, keep these things in mind to have a safer and more comfortable trip.

Whether you are a novice or a long-term driver, it is undeniable that there are driving habits that can damage your car and affect your finances in the long run. You might be doing some things that could speed up the wear of various components or negatively affect the efficiency of fuel consumption. Worst, these habits can also compromise your safety.

Do you want to improve the way you drive? This post has got you covered, as I will provide some valuable insights that are sure to help you. Below, you will see the 7 driving habits that ruin your car and drain your wallet.

1. Resting your Hand on the Gear Stick
2. Refueling only When the Tank is Almost Empty
3. Frequent Braking
4. Ignoring Suspicious Sounds
5. Neglecting to Use the Hand Brake
6. Running a Cold Engine at High Revs
7. Keeping your Foot on the Brake While Driving Downhill

To begin with, here is a short video that will provide a quick summary of the things that will be mentioned below.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ivkiks3wypY

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1. Resting your Hand on the Gear Stick

One of the most important things to remember is that you should never ever rest your hand while on the gearstick. While many would drive with their two hands holding the steering wheel, many are also guilty of feeling too lazy and keeping the other hand stable on the shifter. It might seem like a harmless act, but do you know that it can cause damage to the transmission?

It seems like the pressure that you are exerting on the gearbox is only minimal. When done frequently, however, this could have significant effects. It will result in the displacement of synchronizers and gears. Essentially, if you hold too long, it is as if you are shaking some of the components that cannot be seen from the inside of your car. This will cause damage to the shifting gears, whether your car has an automatic or manual transmission.

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2. Refueling only When the Tank is Almost Empty

Another habit that you need to ditch is letting the fuel tank run empty. When the tank is filled, the sediments will settle at the bottom. Therefore, when the gas level is already low, you are forcing the car to use fuel that is already filled with sediments or dirt. It can reach the engine, which, in turn, can scar the latter and will have a negative impact on the performance of the car.

Now that you know that you should not wait for the tank to run empty, the next question would most probably deal with when you need to have it refueled. As much as possible, you have to refuel your car when it is only 33% full. On the other hand, in the winter season, it is best to keep the tank always half-filled.

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3. Frequent Braking

Many drivers are guilty of making unnecessary brakes when they are driving, especially those who are always afraid that they might hit what is in front of them. This, however, is another detrimental habit as this could lead to the frequent need for replacing brake pads and discs because they are often subjected to pressure that could speed up their wear.

Braking is a skill that you need to learn. It is one thing that can be acquired and improved through time as you have longer driving experience. You need to learn the proper braking techniques, which are discussed in the short video that has been shown at the beginning of this article. Following these steps can help you save a lot of money and headache in the future while being assured of your safety on the road.

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4. Ignoring Suspicious Sounds

If you hear an annoying or weird sound, you should not ignore it. This is one of the obvious signs that there is a malfunction, which can escalate if it is not given attention as soon as possible. In most cases, these sounds may not indicate harm. Nonetheless, you have to pull over as soon as possible and perform a quick inspection. If the sound persists, it is better to consult with a mechanic.

Different noises can mean different problems. For instance, if there is a high-pitched squeal that disappears upon shutting down the engine, it could be a problem with the belt. If the weird sound continues even when the engine is off, the rubber gasket in the radiator pressure cap can be the issue. If there is a whistle from under the hood, look at the vacuum hose. If there is an offbeat rhythm accompanied by an idling engine, it is possible that it is misfiring.

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5. Neglecting to Use the Hand Brake

If you have a car with automatic transmission and if you park it in an area with a slope, the lock gear can undergo stress. If you are parking on an incline, hold the footbrake, shift to park, and pull the handbrake. It is only at this point that you have to release the brake, but you need to do it slowly. This will help immobilize the car.

By using the handbrake every day, there are many problems that you can avoid. For instance, it can prevent the car from rolling away and from having significant damage or causing damage to other cars. This can also prevent the car from being stuck on the brake, especially if the car has been parked for an extended period. It also protects the transmission.

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6. Running a Cold Engine at High Revs

In the case of most modern cars with newly-designed engines, there is no more need for warming up before you drive. However, one important thing to do is to look at the gauge and wait until the operating temperature is reached before running the engine at 2,000 revs. On the other hand, if you live in an area with freezing temperatures, wait for one to two minutes before running the car.

Some people would say that warming up will be a waste of money, basically because it increases your fuel consumption. It can also create emissions that are bad for the environment. However, with modern systems, these negative impacts can be minimized or eliminated. Warming up is necessary to prep your engine for a drive.

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7. Keeping your Foot on the Brake While Driving Downhill

If you are driving downhill, one thing that you most probably do all the time is to keep your foot engaged on the brake. This is so that you will be able to stop at any point it is required to do so. However, this is one thing that you should avoid. This will make the brake pads deteriorate more quickly. This can also lead to overheating of the braking system.

Instead of keeping your foot on the brake, it is recommended that you shift to a lower gear and follow it up with engine braking. This will reduce the use of brakes. The speed of the engine will be reduced, which will also make the vehicle run slower. You will hear a noticeable noise, but do not be scared. This is actually normal.

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Conclusion

No one is born a driver. It is a skill that is harnessed through time. A lot of us are surely guilty of making some mistakes. That being said, I hope that the discussions above on the 7 driving habits that ruin your car and drain your wallet can help you to improve and become a better driver!

A ball joint is a spherical bearing that has the main purpose of establishing a connection between the steering knuckle and the control arm. It pivots between the wheel and the steering system. It is a hardened steel ball that is found in a metal housing. Over time, it can be prone to wear and can affect the stability of the car, whether you are driving at a low or high speed.

If it is already time to replace the ball joint, you came to the right place. In the rest of this guide, you will learn how to press a ball joint, which is important for the removal of the old one and replacement of a new one. You will be happy to know that this is one task that will not require you to pay for the professional services of a trained mechanic.

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What You Will Need to Follow this Tutorial

First, you will have to prepare the tools needed for the task:

• New ball joint
• C-clamp
• Snap ring pliers
• Brake clean
• Wire brush
• Compressed air
• Penetrating fluid

Here’s a video on what the tools look like and what to do.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=37NgLM4tIzw&pp=ygUiY2hyaXNmaXggaG93IHRvIFByZXNzIGEgQmFsbCBKb2ludA%3D%3D

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Step-by-Step Guide on How to Press a Ball Joint

The video below will show you the right way of pressing a ball joint, followed by a more detailed discussion of the steps that are involved in accomplishing the task:

• Start by parking your vehicle on an even surface and open area where you can work comfortably. Use a jack to lift the car. If you have a car ramp, it is better as you can easily access the ball joint.
• Perform a quick inspection of the ball joint. You would want to be sure that it is indeed the issue and that it is already calling for a replacement.
• Prepare the C-clamp. This is the major tool that you will need and the one that will be responsible for pressing the ball joint. The clamp has a hole at the bottom, which is the part that will allow you to press in and out the ball joint in the absence of touching the stud.
• In the case of most ball joints, there will be a snap ring that you can see on the top surrounding the old one. Remove that part first with the use of snap ring pliers.
• Once it is off, you are free to press the ball joint. But, before doing so, use brake clean, wire brush, and compressed air to clean the ball joint. Apply penetrating fluid as well, which will make the removal of the ball joint easier when it is time to press.
• Arrange the C-clamp. While the top part will already touch the ball joint, in the case of the bottom part, you will need an attachment that can push against the control arm. You can find it in your C-clamp kit. Pick which one is suitable for the ball joint that is currently installed.
• Now, you are ready. Position the attachment beneath the ball joint and make sure that it is not touching the ball joint, just the control arm. Position the C-clamp and have it placed in the middle of the top of the ball joint. Use a breaker bar to turn the clamp until the ball joint is released.
• Clean the control arm and inspect to be sure that there are no damages.
• Prepare the new ball joint and have it pressed in. Back at your kit, choose an attachment that will touch the end of the ball joint but will not touch the inside. The position of the clamp will be reversed from the earlier set-up. Turn the clamp until the new ball joint is in position. Put the split ring, press down on both sides, and you are now done!

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Pro Tips

Below, you will see some tips about ball joints, including the signs that should be taken as an indication that the ball joint is failing and that it is already asking for a replacement.

Via: http://thespeedfreaks.net/showthread.php?2343-Balljoints-removal-and-installation-on-Dana-30-Jeeps

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Signs of a Failing Ball Joint

When would you know that it is time to remove the old ball joint and have it replaced with a new one? The following are some of the symptoms that you should watch out for:

• Clunking Noise: Once you hear a noise originating from the front suspension, you already have a reason to suspect that the ball joint is experiencing a problem. Through time, with excessive wear, ball joints can become loose from their original position, which is why they can make a sound that is easy to notice.
• Excessive Vibration: When you are driving, if you notice that your vehicle is vibrating more than usual, this could also be taken as a sign that the ball joint needs a replacement. Determine which side of the vehicle the vibration is coming from, which should identify which ball joint has a problem.
• Uneven Tire Wear: As a part of regular care and maintenance, you have to inspect the condition of the tires. If they show uneven signs of wear from the two sides, you might also want to look at the ball joint as it can be the reason for the latter.

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Types of Ball Joints

If you are thinking of replacing the ball joints of your car or truck, you need to be familiar with the different types that are available so that you will know which one is suitable for your needs:

• Load-Carrying Ball Joint: As the name implies, this type carries the weight of the vehicle. It comes with a spring support, which is the one that is responsible for controlling the arm.
• Non-Load Carrying Ball Joint: Also known as a follower ball joint, it usually wears slower compared to the other type basically because it does not support the weight.

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Care and Maintenance of Ball Joints

As the owner of the vehicle, you need to be proactive in taking care of the ball joints to make it last longer before asking for a replacement. The best thing that you can do is to make sure that the chassis is lubricated properly. This is going to minimize friction.

Frequent cleaning of the under-body of your vehicle is also recommended, especially if it is often used for off-road driving. The reason for this is that mud and dirt can get stuck underneath and can enter the ball joints.

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Conclusion

After reading this post, we hope that you have learned how to press a ball joint. You need a basic tool to do the job, which can be rented from a local mechanic instead of having it purchased. With your new ball joints, you can drive quieter and smoother, while also having peace of mind about your safety when on the road.

The exhaust system is one of the most important parts of your car. That being said, it is vital that you know how the car exhaust system works. It is not complicated, after all, as you will learn in the rest of this post. To have an understanding of its functions, you need to learn its different parts and the individual roles that they play.

Before we get started with the discussions, it will help to watch the short video below to give you a glimpse of your car’s exhaust system.

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Functions of an Exhaust System

To begin with, let me tackle the functions of the exhaust system. It has several components, all of which should work together to push the gases from the combustion to the back of the car. If it is not working at its peak, it will result in the reduced efficiency of the entire engine.

To be more specific, an exhaust system has four main functions: minimize noise, keep out exhaust fumes from passengers, improve fuel efficiency, and improve the overall performance of the engine.

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How Car Exhaust System Works

First, you should know that there are six gases that are produced as emissions by your exhaust. Out of these six, three are toxic – nitrogen monoxide, nitrogen oxide, and carbon monoxide. Your exhaust system is significant as it will channel these fumes away.

In the next section, I will discuss the main parts of the exhaust system so you can understand their individual functions and how the whole system works.

Via: https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:2006_Car_Exhaust_Pipe.JPG

• Exhaust Manifold: This part of the exhaust system is usually made of cast iron, stainless steel, or aluminum. Its main function is the air intake. From here, it carries the emissions to the next part, which is the catalytic converter. These exhaust gases are transported through a connecting pipe.
• Catalytic Converter: A small metal chamber, this part of the exhaust system has the function of receiving the exhaust gases and altering their composition for the reduction of emission. This is also where you can find the oxygen sensor. As the name implies, it detects the level of oxygen, sends information to the computer of your car, and helps in the improvement of fuel efficiency.
• Resonator: After being processed in the catalytic converter, the gases will then proceed to the resonator. It is located in the center section of the exhaust. In the case of some models, the exhaust system can have more than one resonator. Before entering the resonator, the gases are already less toxic. However, they still have sound waves produced by the engine. The resonator helps in the reduction of this noise.
• Muffler: A resonator is often confused with a muffler, but the two are actually different parts of the exhaust system. Many would call the resonator the pre-muffler. It further reduces the noise coming out of the resonator, making it quiet as it gets out of the exhaust of your car. It can be easily prone to rust and external damage, so make sure to have it replaced as necessary to maintain the peak condition of the exhaust system of your car.
• Tail Pipe: Connected to the muffler, this is the last part of the exhaust system. It is commonly made of steel tubing or stainless steel. Most importantly, it ensures the reduction of harmful pollutants coming out of the exhaust system.

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Improving your Exhaust System

It is important to know that there are certain upgrades that you can make to improve the functions of the exhaust system. There are parts that you can change if you are unhappy with the current setup. If you notice that the noise is still too loud and if tests prove that there are still significant emissions, it is an indication that you have to consider upgrading.

One of the instances wherein it is necessary to upgrade the exhaust system is when you change the engine. The reason for this is that when your engine becomes bigger, the amount of exhaust that it creates also becomes bigger. This makes it necessary to upgrade the diameter of the exhaust so that it can improve flow and reduce restrictions.

While the diameter of the pipe is an important consideration for the upgrade, keep in mind that bigger is not always better. With this, it is important first to consider the requirements of the system to determine the right size of the piping to be used for your exhaust.

Via: https://www.powervalve.co.uk/

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Making the most out of the Exhaust System

For the exhaust system to work at its best all the time, there are some important considerations. For instance, one of the most important is the right choice of the materials for the different parts. Mild steel is the most common for the factory-installed exhaust system, but they can be easily prone to wear and tear. The best materials, however, are stainless steel and aluminized steel.

There are also some instances wherein you can replace the exhaust manifold with an exhaust header. It comes with individual pipes in each exhaust port. Their bends are smoother and their curves are larger. The result of the design is that the air will flow faster, and the performance of the engine will improve significantly.

You might also want to consider having a free-flowing exhaust system. According to experts, this will be instrumental in the improvement of horsepower by up to 10. In the same way, having a test piping is also considered as one of the best ways to make the exhaust system more effective in delivering its functions.

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Conclusion

At this point, I hope that you already know how the car exhaust system works. It is composed of several parts and they work together for the reduction of noise and emissions. It is essential to make sure that your car reduces its negative impacts on the environment.

Did you enjoy reading this post? Is there anything else that you would like to add? Do not hesitate to leave a comment below.

The Exhaust Gas Recirculation, or the EGR valve, is known as one of the most important components of the engine’s emission system. The main purpose of the latter is to cool down the exhaust gas, which leads to the reduction of the emission of nitrous oxide. For this reason, it helps in making your car environmentally friendly.

Through time, carbon particles can accumulate in the inlet and can reduce the functionality. To keep it in its peak condition, you need to know how to clean the EGR valve. This is exactly what I will discuss in the rest of this post. I will share with you the easy steps to do it right and some tips that will help in the successful completion of this task.

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What You Will Need to Follow this Tutorial

Before you start cleaning the EGR valve, the first thing that you have to do is to prepare these materials:

• Pipe/carburetor cleaner
• Soft-bristled brush
• Clean cloth
• Di-electric grease
• Socket or ratchet

Take a look at this video for tools used and how to clean the EGR valve:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iT8Iww44nZM&pp=ygUjY2hyaXNmaXggaG93IEhvdyB0byBDbGVhbiBFR1IgVmFsdmU%3D

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Step-by-Step Guide on How to Clean EGR Valve

Before I discuss the tips that are involved, watch the short video below for a quick guide to the cleaning of the EGR valve. A more detailed discussion of the steps involved will be tackled in the next section.

The discussion of the steps will be divided into two parts. They are slightly different on the basis of the type of EGR valve that you have in your car.

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Cleaning a Mechanical EGR Valve

• Start with the removal of the vacuum hose. Once it is taken out, have a close look to see if there are cracks or any signs of wear. Use a pipe or carburetor cleaner to remove the carbon build-up that could have hardened over time.
• After cleaning the vacuum hose, now is the time to check the EGR valve. Using a ratchet or socket, remove the bolts that connect the valve to the engine. Look at the gasket lining. If there is no visible damage, you can have it cleaned and reused. Otherwise, it will require a replacement. A replacement is also necessary if the carbon build-up seems to be too much for you to deal with.
• Start cleaning the gas entry port and the return tube. To do this, you have to first spray a carburetor cleaner and use a soft-bristled brush to remove the carbon deposits on the surface.
• The next part that you have to clean is the part that connects the valve to your engine. Similar to the step above, this is best done with the use of a carburetor cleaner and soft brush.
• If the carbon deposits prove to be somewhat stubborn, the best thing that you can do is to soak the valve in water with a carburetor cleaner. Leave it overnight. The morning after, use a brush to remove the deposits. Soaking is important as it will make the carbon build-up softer and easier to remove.
• Now that you are done cleaning, use a cloth to thoroughly clean the surface and make sure that no deposits remain. Allow it to dry, and finally, reinstall the EGR valve.

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Cleaning an Electronic EGR Valve

• Remove the negative battery cable for your safety. This will prevent short circuits and will make sure that there is no electric current as you start with the task.
• After removing the battery cable, remove the sensor and any other component attached to the valve.
• Loosen the bolts and take out the EGR valve.
• Before cleaning the valve, inspect other parts, such as the gasket and the hose. If they are already significantly damaged, cleaning will not be the solution. Rather, it would be best to have them replaced.
• Next, clean the EGR valve. Do not use just any cleaner for this job. Because there are electrical connections that are involved, you have to use a di-electric grease or a cleaner that is specifically formulated for electronic components.
• Dry the components and reinstall. Reconnect the negative terminal of the battery.

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Pro Tips

Aside from learning about the proper way of cleaning an EGR valve, it will also be good to know the tips that I will share in this section.

Via https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=j-INxzEMcT8

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When to Know if the EGR Valve Needs Cleaning

Before you proceed with the cleaning, you have to be aware of the symptoms of a bad or dirty EGR valve to determine if there is already a need to have it cleaned. One of the most common signs is when the engine surges and stalls when you are warming up your vehicle. This is one thing that you might commonly experience in a parking lot.

Another common sign is when the passages of the valves are clogged. Aside from performing a physical inspection, it will be easy to determine this condition when you notice that the engine knocks.

In the case of newer car models, on the other hand, the Check Engine Light will flash when there is a problem with the EGR valve. This is an easy way to be warned that you have to do something before the situation escalates.

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Care and Maintenance of EGR Valves

To prevent the need for frequent cleaning or costly replacement, it is important that you exert conscious effort to maintain the peak condition of the EGR valve. Regular inspection is necessary to spot problems early on and have them solved before escalating.

Use only cleaners that are approved for the components. As mentioned above, you have to be more cautious if it is an electronic EGR valve, as you will need a special kind of cleaner. You should never soak these components in water, as doing so will surely damage the electrical components of the EGR valve.

It is not enough that you clean the EGR valve. There are also situations wherein there is a need for you to replace the EGR gasket to ensure optimal performance of the valve.

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Conclusion

In sum, knowing how to clean EGR valves is essential knowledge for car owners. You do not need the expertise of an experienced mechanic to do the job. It is an easy task that you can complete on your own with the basic materials that are required. When this is done, you can be assured of the peak performance of the engine and the reduction of its emissions.

Have you tried cleaning an EGR valve before? Are there other things that you would like to share? Feel free to write in the comment section below.