Symptom Chart - Exhaust System

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2009 Ford Econoline. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

SYMPTOM CHART - EXHAUST SYSTEM

Condition	Possible Sources	Action
Loss of power - vehicle performance complaint (coupled with a check engine light on)	Exhaust pipe pinched or crushed Damaged catalytic converter Loose obstruction in exhaust	For diesel engine, Go To PINPOINT TEST A . For gas engines, REFER to the INTRODUCTION - GASOLINE MODELS article.
	Restricted exhaust (possible frozen condensate) (6.0L diesel)	Go To PINPOINT TEST A .
	Restricted exhaust (possible frozen condensate) (gasoline)	PARK the vehicle inside to thaw. TEST vehicle for normal operation. If the concern is still present, REFER to the INTRODUCTION - GASOLINE MODELS article for restricted exhaust.
	Plugged catalytic converter	For diesel engine, Go To PINPOINT TEST A . For gas engines, REFER to the INTRODUCTION - GASOLINE MODELS article.
Burning smell - usually occurs at idle with possible traces of smoke	Foreign material caught in exhaust system Missing heat shields Fluid leak on exhaust	INSPECT the exhaust system for foreign material. REPAIR or INSTALL new components as necessary. TEST the system for normal operation after the repair.
Odor - described as a sulfur or rotten egg smell	Catalytic converter	At times, a slight sulfur smell is normal for catalytic converters. The cause is the sulfur content in the gasoline being used. ADVISE customer, no repair required.
Odor - described as a sulfur or rotten egg smell	Rich fuel conditions Misfire conditions Excessive sulfur content in fuel	REFER to the INTRODUCTION - GASOLINE MODELS article.
Visible rust on surface of exhaust pipes	Exhaust system	Surface rust is a characteristic of materials used on exhaust systems. Exposure to heat or road salt may result in surface rust. INSPECT for perforations. If there are no perforations, condition is normal.