All Exhausts/Catalytic Converter Stuff

All Exhausts/Catalytic Converter Stuff

Of course,the good old car exhaust is undoubtedly a distress purchase. Significantly, it can also be an expensive purchase. However most small to medium cars are reasonably priced and affordable.

Undoubtedly, your car exhaust is one of the most unnoticed parts of your car. Of course, unless you are a real car enthusiast. So, a lot of car enthusiasts actually replace their original car exhaust. Naturally, to better looking twin sports tail pipes.

Peugeot 107 Exhaust Fitted

Peugeot 107 Exhaust Fitted

Peugeot 107 Exhaust Fitted
Peugeot 107 Exhaust Fitted

Peugeot 107 Exhaust Fitted

In order to ensure safe operation and lower noise and emissions while directing dangerous gases away from the engine and out of the vehicle, a vehicle exhaust system is essential. It is in charge of directing the gases released during combustion and using the catalytic converter to filter out harmful pollutants like carbon monoxide, hydrocarbons, and nitrogen oxides. A functional exhaust system helps an efficient engine achieve improved performance and fuel economy. It also guarantees that the vehicle complies with environmental rules and lessens engine noise, making the road quieter.

The original exhaust system on a Peugeot 107 that we recently received was absolutely falling apart; Peugeot 107 Exhaust Fitted

Of course, it was entirely rotten and in pieces, barely hanging on! With all the salt and filth from our UK roads, it was not unexpected that the exhaust on this small motor was nearing the end of its useful life.

It was evident that this motor had experienced a few hard winters. After some time, the owner had been hearing some unsettling rattling and banging underneath, and upon closer inspection, we could see that the exhaust had finally had enough. A new one was overdue.

Loved for its small stature and snappy performance, the Peugeot 107 is a true workhorse of a city car that’s ideal for navigating the twisting streets of Halifax. This one’s owner obviously received what they paid for, but they also realised it needed some care. After making sure the brand-new exhaust system was securely fastened and prepared for use, we set to work installing it.

Peugeot 107 Exhaust Fitted
Peugeot 107 Exhaust Fitted

A Brief History of the Peugeot 107-Peugeot 107 Exhaust Fitted

The Peugeot 107, for those who are unfamiliar, is one of three nearly identical automobiles. The PSA Peugeot Citroën and Toyota collaborated to create the 107 as well as the Citroën C1 and the Toyota Aygo. They set out to design a compact, reasonably priced vehicle suitable for driving in European cities, and the 107 more than satisfied that need. When it was introduced in 2005, its cheap maintenance costs, effortless operation, and capacity to park in spots that would have seemed unattainable made it an immediate success!

These Czech-made vehicles gained popularity fast in the UK

Especially among novice drivers and those who merely needed a dependable vehicle for city hopping. They were also quite fuel-efficient, which is something we can all enjoy in these times of seemingly rising living expenses. A dependable little runabout for town use or a perfect first car, the Peugeot 107 also had relatively cheap insurance due to its modest engine.

Returning it to Halifax-Peugeot 107 Exhaust Fitted

Now, Peugeot 107s are a common sight in Halifax, where they are well suited for both the busy town centre and our mountainous roads. Additionally, cars like this frequently experience greater wear and tear than in some other places due to the unpredictable weather in Yorkshire.

As we witnessed with this specific exhaust system, the underside of these motors can take a serious battering from the rain, snow, and salt on the roadways.

However, with the help of our staff at Pellon Autocentre, this 107 is back to its previous splendour and has a brand-new exhaust system that is prepared to drive it for a very long time. Seeing a task through to completion and allowing the owner to leave with a little more peace of mind is always rewarding.

So, we’re always here to help if you think your reliable little motor needs a checkup or if you’re hearing unusual noises coming from your exhaust. Although the roads in the Halifax area can be difficult for vehicles, even the most abused vehicles can continue to function with some care and attention!

 

Fiat 500 Noisy Engine Fix

Fiat 500 Noisy Engine Fix

Fiat 500 Noisy Engine Fix
Fiat 500 Noisy Engine Fix

Fiat 500 Noisy Engine Fix

A concerned customer brought a Fiat 500 into the garage recently

The guy was certain he had a major engine issue on their hands. Anyone who has driven a Fiat 500 knows that they are nimble small vehicles that are ideal for commuting. Thus, it’s natural to fear the worst when something feels strange, particularly when it comes to the engine. The owner was naturally a little nervous about what might be wrong.

We thoroughly inspected the car after we got it in the workshop. The customer had reported some odd noises and a minor loss of power, which are common indicators that an engine is nearing the end of its useful life. However, after doing some under-the-bonnet digging, we soon discovered that the cause was a deteriorated flexi pipe in the exhaust system rather than the engine itself.

When exhaust flexi pipes leak, they can produce a wide range of peculiar symptoms.Fiat 500 Noisy Engine Fix

They are flexible, as their name implies, and they join various exhaust system components. They can wear out with time, and that’s precisely what had occurred to this small Fiat. A pipe leak was the cause of the owner’s strange noises and performance issues.

Fortunately for the client, this wasn’t a big task. In no time at all, we removed the malfunctioning pipe and installed a brand-new one. It was a rather easy remedy for what could have been a much more difficult and expensive repair. Naturally, we quickly inspected the remainder of the car to be sure nothing more sinister was hiding there, but everything looked fine.

You could see the customer’s relief spread when they arrived to pick up their Fiat.Fiat 500 Noisy Engine Fix

What was once a concern about costly engine repair turned out to be much easier to handle. It’s always wonderful to see clients go away feeling at ease, particularly when we’ve been able to resolve the problem fast and for a much lower price than they had anticipated.

Fiat 500 Noisy Engine Fix
Fiat 500 Noisy Engine Fix
Moments like these serve as a reminder of why I love working at Pellon Autocentre.

In Halifax, we strive to ensure that our clients leave satisfied, knowing they’ve received excellent care, rather than just mending cars. We’re always here to help the residents of West Yorkshire stay on the road, whether it’s a Fiat 500 with a noisy exhaust or a larger job on one of the many other makes we see.

Hey, the next time your automobile makes a strange noise, don’t automatically assume the worst—an exhaust flexi pipe could be the cause!

The classic Fiat 500, also known as the “Cinquecento,” has a rich history that dates back to 1957.Fiat 500 Noisy Engine Fix

The initial Fiat 500 was created as an economical and useful city automobile for post-war Italy, but it quickly came to represent Italian style and innovation. Due to its small size, it gained popularity fast throughout Europe, providing mobility to the general public at a period when many still considered owning a car to be a luxury.

The Fiat 500 has changed throughout time, yet its allure and vintage appeal have never faded. Fiat brought back the 500 with a modern twist in 2007, fusing cutting-edge technology with the iconic retro style that consumers adored.

The Fiat 500 is still a well-liked classic in both its old and new iterations, appealing to city drivers who value its blend of personality, fuel economy, and urban usefulness.

 

 

Vauxhall Meriva for New Tailbox Fitting

Vauxhall Meriva for New Tailbox Fitting

Vauxhall Meriva for New Tailbox Fitting
Vauxhall Meriva for New Tailbox Fitting

Vauxhall Meriva for New Tailbox Fitting

We had a Vauxhall roll into the garage recently that was generating a lot of noise due to an exhaust issue. The growling sound emanating from the rear of the car definitely attracted some attention as the owner was driving around Halifax.

We had a brief look when they brought it into Pellon Autocentre and assumed the back box was the source of the problem right away. We verified that the back box had corroded through and was barely hanging on after lifting it up on the lift.

The back box, sometimes referred to as the rear silencer, is an essential component of an automobile’s exhaust system, for those who may not be aware. It does more than just keep your vehicle quiet, however, it is one of its main functions.

It also affects how well the car runs overall, assisting with fuel economy and, in certain situations, exhaust flow. You run the danger of breaking other components of the exhaust system in addition to noise pollution if you don’t have it or if it’s broken.

Many individuals may not think twice about their exhaust system until something goes wrong

similar to what happened to our Vauxhall driver. However, the exhaust system functions in the background, much like the unsung hero of an automobile. Particularly the rear box aids in controlling the fumes that leave your car, maintaining a quiet and smooth ride.

Modern cars are built with long-lasting rear boxes, but let’s face it: living in the UK, particularly in the Halifax area, creates ideal circumstances for rust. Wintertime road salt and wetness may be very damaging, especially to an automobile’s underneath. Like many other makes, Vauxhalls are not exempt from this. It’s wise to keep an eye (and ear) out for any exhaust issue indicators, such as rattling, strange noises, or a decrease in performance.

Vauxhall Meriva for New Tailbox Fitting
Vauxhall Meriva for New Tailbox Fitting

Your car’s operation may also change when a backbox is replaced.

Its improper operation disrupts the exhaust flow, which may have an impact on engine efficiency. That’s why maintaining the general health of your car is equally as important as fixing it to stop the noise.

We at Pellon Autocentre are prepared to take on tasks such as these. Over the years, we’ve seen our fair share of rusted exhaust systems, and we know where to find high-quality replacement parts to restore vehicles to working order.

In this instance, the Vauxhall returned to its peaceful, smooth-running self- Vauxhall Meriva for New Tailbox Fitting

When the new backbox was installed, it was ready to travel the streets of Halifax without drawing any more unwanted attention.

Thus, you shouldn’t merely turn up the radio and expect that the strange sound coming from your car’s exhaust will go away. Come on over to the garage, and we’ll investigate. Whether the issue is as simple as replacing the back box or more complex, it’s always preferable to take care of it now rather than waiting for it to get worse and more expensive.

The Vauxhall Meriva is a tiny multi-purpose vehicle (MPV) Vauxhall Meriva for New Tailbox Fitting

So, that initially debuted in 2003 and is intended to provide families and urban drivers with adaptability and practicality. Recognised for its adaptable seating configuration and roomy cabin, the Meriva gained popularity in the UK quite fast.

Launched in 2010, the second generation included Vauxhall’s unique FlexDoors, rear-hinged back doors that simplified getting in and out of the vehicle and were particularly useful for families with small children.

Numerous Merivas are still in use today on the roads of Halifax and beyond thanks to their solid reputation for dependability and functionality. They are a popular choice for anyone looking for a practical yet small car.

 

EXHAUST SYSTEMS AT A GLANCE

Exhausts Changed: Emission Laws

Exhausts Changed

Exhausts Changed

 Exhausts systems also cost much more than 10 years ago

I can honestly say that I have lived during the most radical changes ever made to cars, due to the new rules about “global warming” and emissions from cars. Back in time, when we had Vauxhall Vivas Cavaliers, Chrysler Horizons, old type Minis, and Ford Cortinas, life in the garage was much easier and certainly more stable.

The exhaust systems on those cars would stay the same year after year. So much so that we could order hundreds of systems at a time and keep a large stock that we always sold. In fact, we could order exhaust systems by the container load, and they would all be sold, (happy days).

Then the computer came along .

Exhausts Changed

Car manufacturers could very quickly change car models, they became very flexible, changing parts on different models at will.

This included systems. We were finding that Exhausts.  Like other parts, they would be left on the shelf unsold. Hence, we were becoming very reluctant to keep exhaust systems on the shelves. Without, getting stuck with them. Consequently, at this time, exhaust wholesalers began to spring up. As a result, and in a short period of time,. We decided not to keep any exhaust stock at all. So, leave it to the wholesalers. In fact. The last stock that we kept was from Bosal Exhausts. Probably, (the best exhausts in the world, and that was in the late nineties.

The next thing to affect exhausts were vehicle emissions controls.

Exhausts Changed

The British government introduced these. Thus, cars had to be fitted with “catalytic converters,” as we know them. Therefore, they are fitted between the car’s engine and the exhaust pipe system. The gas from the engine is filtered through the catalytic converter. into a very fine filter system. made from ceramics to withstand the high temperature. The cat also has some precious metals to help filter out the particulates. (This is why cats are so expensive.)

Some car models have a direct engine fit. Thus, the engine sends out waste gases. that are filtered by the cat. As a result, the cleaner gases pass through the rest of the system. The exhaust change boxes are made of fibreglass material. Naturally, that has an extra filter effect but will also muffle the sound that the gases make when leaving the engine. We all know how noisy a car is when the exhaust breaks.

Exhausts systems are better made these days

Some cars have two or even three boxes, depending on the size of the engine and the car. Here in the UK, we do not change the exhaust until it actually breaks, and then we have it replaced, and in my opinion, this is the best thing to do. Even the worst-looking rusty old car exhausts can last for years, and it is no use changing your exhaust just because it looks rusty and old; replace it when it breaks, unless it fails the MOT test. The main part to fail on the test will be the cat; if it fails the test, the cat will need replacing.

Foreword: now to 2024.

catalytic converter thefts on the increase.

Exhausts Changed

Catalytic converter thefts have been on the rise in recent years, particularly in urban areas. The value of the precious metals found in catalytic converters, such as platinum, palladium, and rhodium, frequently serves as a driving force behind these thefts. The thefts have caused problems for car owners, as the cost to replace a stolen catalytic converter can be quite high. Some police departments and insurance companies have started to track catalytic converter thefts and are working to find ways to prevent them.

Mercedes Vito Broken Flexi-Pipe

Mercedes Vito Broken Flexi-Pipe

Mercedes Vito Broken Flexi-Pipe
Mercedes Vito Broken Flexi-Pipe

Mercedes Vito Broken Flexi-Pipe

A Mercedes Vito just rolled into our Halifax garage, Pellon Autocentre, Halifax, UK, raising quite a ruckus with an exhaust so loud it would have awoke the neighbours! A brief inspection revealed that the exhaust gases were being released from the precatalytic converter’s flexible pipe, which had broken apart.

Now, if you know anything about exhausts, you will realise how important these flexible pipes are—they prevent harm to other elements of the system by absorbing vibrations and movement. However, when they crack, as this one did, the result is a sound that is anything but quiet!

Mercedes Vito Broken Flexi-Pipe
Mercedes Vito Broken Flexi-Pipe

 

As usual, we checked into the cost of the original equipment part and presented the customer with the whole picture.

Like other Mercedes parts, the price was extremely exorbitant. Here at Pellon Autocentre, however, we really excel in providing sensible and affordable options without sacrificing quality. Enter Ryan Linton, who proceeded to remove the broken pipe and begin welding in a brand-new Flexi pipe in keeping with his typical problem-solving approach.

The finest part?

This method produced a strong, long-lasting repair while saving the customer tens of pounds. They returned their Vito to the road with money still in their pocket, and the drive was perfect too, as opposed to having to pay for the entire Mercedes component!

This is the kind of work where our local, client-focused mindset is put to use. We strive to develop practical solutions that fit the vehicle and the customer’s budget rather than just swapping parts for the sake of it. We already have enough things to worry about in Halifax; we don’t need unforeseen customers car expenses to further strain there finances.

Mercedes Vito Broken Flexi-Pipe
Mercedes Vito Broken Flexi-Pipe
Come see us if you have an exhaust problem

Or simply want to talk about how we can help you maintain your car in excellent condition without going over budget! Our goal is to provide you with honest service and the best possible value at all times.

It makes sense that the Mercedes Vito has a strong reputation in the van industry.
Mercedes Vito Broken Flexi-Pipe
Mercedes Vito Broken Flexi-Pipe

When it was first introduced in 1996, it was intended to be a sturdy workhorse that would suit delivery men, tradespeople, and anybody else in need of a spacious vehicle. With every subsequent iteration, the Vito has developed throughout time, adding more comfort, efficiency, and technology.

It has been a favourite due to its sturdy construction as well as the fact that it handles like a car rather than a typical van, which makes it perfect for lengthy trips. Because of its adaptability and availability of panel vans and minibuses, the Vito has been a popular vehicle for enterprises in Halifax and around the United Kingdom. It should come as no surprise that they frequent the store!

 

 

 

Rover Exhaust Flexi Pipe Fitted

Rover Exhaust Flexi Pipe Fitted

Rover Exhaust Flexi Pipe Fitted

Rover Exhaust Flexi Pipe Fitted

Repairing Flexi Pipes and Saving Money:

A Rover Tale

A customer brought in their old Rover the other day, concerned about the exhaust blowing at the front end. The flexi pipe turned out to be wrecked. For those who are unaware, the flexi pipe is a component of the exhaust system that is necessary to keep everything operating smoothly because it absorbs vibrations and movement. Typically, many individuals assume they’ll have to pay for a completely new exhaust section when this element fails. However, there is a far less expensive option: making and installing a new flexible pipe!

Why Take a Custom Approach? Rover Exhaust Flexi Pipe Fitted

The affordability of fixing as opposed to replacing is an important benefit to the customer. Pre-manufactured parts can be expensive, particularly when dealing with older models like some of the vintage Rovers that are still in use in Halifax. It can be difficult and expensive to find the exact part for many cars, especially those with some history.

We can provide a far more affordable alternative because we can design and install a new flexi pipe ourselves. But it’s not just about cutting costs. When an item needs to be ordered from a manufacturer, this approach might occasionally be quicker and more dependable than waiting for it to arrive—assuming the manufacturer is still in business!

The Method-Rover Exhaust Flexi Pipe Fitted

When we have to fix a broken flexi pipe here in the workshop, we carefully inspect the vehicle’s exhaust system. The intention is not to replace the entire thing, but simply the bendable section. Once the old or damaged section is removed, we precisely measure a new flexi pipe to meet the car’s specs.

There isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution; various cars call for marginally differing diameters or lengths. But we can save costs and solve problems with our skills, accuracy and good ol’ fashioned elbow grease. The car will function normally once the replacement pipe is welded into place, absorbing the jolts and vibrations of Halifax’s roadways with ease.

 Rover: A Typical Situation-Rover Exhaust Flexi Pipe Fitted

This customer’s Rover is a good example. When it comes to parts, Rovers—especially the older models—have a bit of a bad reputation of being difficult to obtain. However, we’ve always had a special place in our hearts for these British icons, many of whom we know are still active in the Yorkshire area. It made perfect sense to go the custom way for this specific repair. The purchaser redeemed a substantial amount, and the Rover resumed its journey, sounding as smooth as it had in 1999.

Staying Local- Rover Exhaust Flexi Pipe Fitted

With our uneven streets and changeable, West Yorkshire weather here in Halifax, it’s always helpful to know that there are alternatives for affordable repairs. A bespoke flexi pipe is a wise choice for any vehicle, be it a Ford, Rover, or any other. It maintains your car operating well without requiring you to wait a long time for expensive parts, on top of saving money.

So keep in mind that we can help you with a tailored fix the next time you’re told you need a completely new exhaust section due to a problematic flexi pipe. One less noisy exhaust at a time and some quieter neighbourhood roadways thanks to our efficient and affordable solution!

 

Thefts of Catalytic Converters

Thefts of Catalytic Converters

Thefts of Catalytic Converters
© Can Stock Photo / Kinek00

Thefts of Catalytic Converters

So, I have found over many years that anything metal left about and outside the premises will very quickly be stolen. In our part of Yorkshire there are people in transit van pickups, constantly driving around looking for anything metal to collect. In some instances metal objects are even stolen.

Indeed a friend of mine was recently given a metal greenhouse for the garden. Unable to erect it straight away, he left the greenhouse on the lawn close to the erection site.

Would you believe it! The following day the metal greenhouse had vanished. We now who did but the police were not interested. Anything left outside that is metal will be stolen. It has all a value and is worth the risk to these people, who make their living from other people’s misery.

Exhausts were once the target.

About twenty years ago we had to build a special locked up compound to keep all our metal scrap secure from theft. Attempts to steel our scrap metal were common place. This leads up to the present day and catalytic convertors.

The unexpected and inconvenient realisation that someone has tampered with cars exhaust system. While you are asleep in bed is something that every owner of a motor vehicle dreads.

In recent years, there has been a huge rise in the Thefts of Catalytic Converters. We know because many of our customers have become victims of this crime.

So, now this has developed into an ongoing issue that is difficult to control. This article delves into the why, how, and preventative measures that can be taken regarding the persistent tide of criminal activity.

Catalytic converter thefts have become an epidemic in recent years.

Theft of a catalytic converter is considered a more serious offence than a minor theft. It’s an epidemic that’s spreading all across the world.

The exhaust emission control system, which is an essential component of every contemporary car, has become a rising target for thieves. The reason why? The precious metals that are contained within. Criminals can make a lot of money by stealing catalytic converters since they contain high-value materials like platinum, palladium, and rhodium.

What’s Behind the Recent Uptick in Stolen Catalytic Converters?

Why has there been such a significant increase in the number of Thefts of Catalytic Converters? Looking at supply and demand can reveal the story. When emission rules are tightened all around the world, there will be an increased demand for these valuable metals. Meanwhile, dealers on the illegal market want converters because of the value they have for recycling, which adds gasoline to the fire of criminal activity. To put it another way, these sneaky and quick-moving criminals will consider your parked car an easy target.

How Criminals Steal Catalytic Converters is the Headline of This Article

Thieves are known for their meticulous methods. A seasoned criminal can remove a catalytic converter from a vehicle in a matter of minutes, frequently without being discovered. They will use simple tools to get beneath your vehicle, make quick cuts, and then get away with the prize. Who was the victim? You are now stuck with a high repair price and a car that sounds like a raging monster when it drives.

Theft of Catalytic Converters: Preventative Steps

Awareness is a powerful tool. The power of knowledge might be your greatest asset. Investing in a security system, such as alarms, cameras, or parking in well-lit, frequented locations, can serve as powerful deterrents to potential criminals. Some people even go so far as to choose catalytic converter protection devices, which is a more direct technique. Another possible solution would be to engrave the vehicle identification number (VIN) onto the converter. This would make the car less desirable to potential Thefts of Catalytic Converters and would make it simpler to locate if it were stolen

.

The thievery of catalytic converters is not a minor annoyance.

It’s an ongoing issue that requires constant care. Your vehicle can be protected from becoming a victim of this crime if you take preventative steps and maintain a state of vigilance. Always keep in mind that the cost of prevention is almost always going to be less than the cost of replacement. A Last Plea for Help in the Fight Against the Thefts of Catalytic Converters.

It is absolutely necessary to maintain a step advantage in this day and age of escalating Thefts of Catalytic Converters. Maintain an up-to-date knowledge base, make an investment in preventative measures, and check that your vehicle is secure. Let’s make it more difficult for these thieves to get away with their crimes and help put an end to this persistent problem.

Theft of catalytic converters, vehicle theft, preventative measures, and exhaust systems are some of the keywords that might be used here. thefts of catalytic converters, which cars are least likely to have catalytic converter stolen, catalytic converter theft prevention, catalytic converter theft Cambridge, catalytic converter lock fitted price. catalytic converter theft in uk.

Catalytic Converter Care

Catalytic converter thefts- on “significant” rise – Garagewire

Catalytic converter thefts

Catalytic converter thefts

So, this is a follow-up to a recent post that I did about cat/converter thefts from the Halifax area of the UK. Unfortunately, this problem is nation-wide. Because of the make-up of these catalysts, they have become an easy target to steal. Cats contain precious metals that are in short supply. Consequently, illegal thefts are becoming commonplace.

Unfortunately, we are experiencing many of the thefts coming from Honda car models. Luckily, some customers are covered by their car insurance, but many are not. Going forward, it would be worth drivers checking out their insurance companies. Hence, to see if they are covered or not!

Of course, this type of practise is nothing new. Catalytic converter thefts

Consequently, I know of a company in the Elland industrial area of West Yorkshire that was badly hit. So, for ease of access to there vans, they were kept parked outside. Drivers made early starts, giving the drivers a quick turn-around in the early morning.

However, one Monday morning, the drivers turned up only to find that the whole fleet was stripped of their catalytic converters. What a horrific find ?

According to recent reports, catalytic converter thefts have been on the rise in the United Kingdom.

This is due to the fact that these devices, which are used to reduce harmful emissions from vehicles.

are, of course, made of precious metals. important, such as platinum, palladium, and rhodium. In order to prevent these thefts from occurring. Then it is important to take precautions. Cleverly, such as parking in a well-lit area or in a locked garage.

Catalytic converter including exhaust thefts have been on the rise here in West Yorkshire and the rest of the UK. Once again, the converters are made of precious metals, such as platinum and palladium, which have been rising in value.

The thieves are targeting vehicles that are easy to access. Of course, such as those that are parked on the street or in public parking lots. Even in well-lit areas, thieves have the uncanny ability to crawl underneath a vehicle and remove the catalytic converter without detection.

Some well-lit car parking areas have had multiple thefts in one fowl swoop by the thieves.

Cat/converter thefts have dramatically increased since June with the number cases of reported to be “significant”. Crimes dropped to just 52 in April from over 400 at the start of the year in January but

Source: Catalytic converter thefts on “significant” rise – Garagewire

Exhaust Systems Explained

EXHAUST SYSTEMS AT A GLANCE

 EXHAUST SYSTEM Last Longer Than They Did? Now drivers Benefit

EXHAUST SYSTEMS AT A GLANCE

EXHAUST SYSTEMS AT A GLANCE
Exhausts Changed

EXHAUST SYSTEMS AT A GLANCE

So, thinking about this, I suppose that there are many reasons that an exhaust system fitted to a modern car will last longer. Than say a car exhaust would 15 to 20 years ago. The cars of yesteryear were not subjected to the emission laws that today’s modern cars are. The big change came when all cars were fitted with catalytic convertors.

In fact, it was about 22 years ago that the new cars were produced. Hence, it had to be fitted with a petrol and diesel catalytic converter. Cars registered after January 1, 1992 (i.e., K prefixes onwards) .

This is about the same time that exhaust systems. Thus, they appeared to last longer than their predecessors. In the good old days, we used to buy car exhausts from the manufacturers directly in containers. We knew that certain cars were fitted with exhausts that would only last about 2 years.

Certain cars, such as Vauxhall Vivas and Cavaliers,. They were very vulnerable to their back box’s rotting. They used to collect the dilute acid from the engine in the tail boxes, and this would rot them from the inside.

catalytic converter
Better exhaust systems were made with the addition of the catalytic converter.

Also, there were many more models of cars produced by the manufacturers.

I would buy say 100x VW Beetle exhausts. Simply because there were so many of them out on the roads. Today, because of computers, car makers can alter and change a model within minutes using modern computer software. I believe that it is the same with exhaust systems. The designs are much better and are made of better materials than they used to be.

We in the trade do not stock the same number of systems anymore. Because of the large number of variations within one model of car,.

Of course, there was one exhaust to fit one model, whatever the engine size. Staggeringly, there will now be ten different systems and shapes for the different engine sizes. So, this could have to do with the different catalytic converter sizes that a different engine size may have to have; the rest of the exhaust will be a different shape or size.

The exhaust system has now become part of the emissions service.

We have now had to become qualified in car emissions, using sophisticated hand-held computers to diagnose any faults in the system. Also the addition of the catalytic converter to the front of the exhaust system. I also added the need for a better-quality exhaust pipe product.

The catalytic converter is made of a ceramic or stainless steel honeycomb core. A silica and aluminium wash coat, and a precious metal for the catalyst (platinum). The car makers then started to use aluminium exhaust systems to match the quality of the catalytic converters and enable the guarantee to extend to two years on a replacement system.

EXHAUST SYSTEMS AT A GLANCE-Your exhaust system lasts longer because they are now aluminised: EXHAUST SYSTEMS AT A GLANCE

Previously, most exhausts were made from mild steel, which would only last about eighteen months. Small niche businesses that produced replacement exhaust pipes from mild steel made these. Because of the growing demand for cheap exhaust prices from fast-fit centres,  such companies as Pioneer Exhausts did a roaring trade.

Companies like Bosal Exhaust system made aluminium systems for car manufacturers and gradually started to sell their products to motor manufacturers and specialised exhaust system wholesalers, who would in turn supply garages and fast-fit centres.

The only problem was that they were more expensive and would only be bought by customers with up-market cars; the regular guys still wanted the best price for exhaust for their cars.

The larger companies were on the streets ahead. EXHAUST SYSTEMS AT A GLANCE

Cleverly, with the equipment they used to make the catalytic converters and exhaust systems,. In fact, most of the exhaust system parts were built very accurately with “robots.”. The robots also made better exhaust systems. Because they are more precise when welding the parts together. Bosal Exhausts also added a small hole in their back boxes to allow the excess acid to drain away.

The simple fact is that yes, exhausts are made from far better quality products and built to a much higher standard (no dodgy welding); therefore, they last much longer than they used to, hence the two-year warranty given to the replacement parts fitted.

  

Catalytic Converter Theft

Catalytic Converter Theft

Catalytic Converter Theft

So, here we are still in the grip of this terrible pandemic. Millions of businesses are now struggling due to government restrictions. Especially the pubs and catering establishments. Of course, as a businessman, I really do feel for the people who are pulling their hair out trying to survive. Fortunately, as a garage and MOT testing station, we are able to open.

So, earlier, we did have to close for a while!

Because of this, the government decided to suspend MOT testing for six months. Of course, this killed our business over night, and we kept one fitter to fit and repair tyres. Unfortunately, the rest of the garage staff had to be furloughed. Anyhow, we are back to almost normal trading at the present time and are thankful for all our loyal customers.

Our customers are supporting us, and we are keeping prices as low as we can to help support them in this terrible period of time. On the other side, we are also trying our best to support local businesses in the Halifax area!

Catalytic Converter Theft
catalytic converter

Increase in cat thefts

Sadly, we are now seeing an increase in Catalytic Converter Theft. Especially here in the Halifax area. This week, October 2020, we had two Honda cars submitted with the catalytic converters cut off. These cats are manufactured using precious metals. So, this is to filter the engine’s emissions to give us cleaner air.

Vehicle owners do not realise the value of  this part hanging underneath and connected to their exhaust pipe. Incredibly, most catalytic converts contain many different types of  precious metals! Including rare and precious metals such as platinum, palladium, and rhodium. So, other valuable metals such as copper, magnesium, cerium, iron, and nickel are also in the mix.

This makes these cats worth stealing, and thefts are increasing. Catalytic Converter Theft

The worst case of this has come from a tyre wholesaler in Elland. All their vans were left out over the weekend. Consequently, thieves stole the catalytic converters from all the vans! Incredible!

Police advice to motorists: Catalytic Converter Theft

After looking at this problem, I have discovered that the problem is nation-wide. In fact, the police have given out some advice about preventing this from happening. The advice is given on the “West Yorkshire Police” web site.

The images are from one of the Honda Jazz cars, showing where the catalytic converter was cut off.

Catalytic Converter Theft
Catalytic Converter Theft

In recent months, there has been a concerning rise in the number of thefts of catalytic converters.

Naturally, from vehicles in the United Kingdom. Catalytic converters are devices fitted to the exhaust systems of motor vehicles. Importantly, they use a chemical process to convert harmful gases into less harmful substances.

The converters contain precious metals such as platinum, palladium, and rhodium. So they are valuable to thieves. There are a number of ways to help prevent catalytic converter thefts. Such as fitting security devices to vehicles or parking in well-lit, busy areas.

Auto thefts in the U.K. have been on the rise in recent years. Catalytic Converter Theft

Unfortunately, one of the most common items targeted is catalytic converters. These devices, located between the engine and the exhaust pipe, are made of precious metals. Like platinum, palladium, and rhodium, and can be sold for scrap metal value.  In order to prevent your catalytic converter from being stolen,.

Nationally, officers of the Metropolitan Police Service recommend engraving your car’s registration number on the device. Alternatively, have it marked with a forensic coding system. CCTV cameras can also be effective in discouraging thieves