Posted on 9/26/2025
Your exhaust manifold plays a vital role in your vehicle’s performance, fuel efficiency, and emissions control. It collects exhaust gases from the engine’s cylinders and channels them through the exhaust system to be safely expelled. When a leak develops in the manifold or its gasket, it can lead to a host of problems — some loud, some subtle, and all worth paying attention to. Spotting the signs of an exhaust manifold leak early helps you avoid more costly damage to the engine, the catalytic converter, and surrounding components. If you’ve noticed strange noises, smells, or engine changes, it’s worth taking a closer look. What Causes an Exhaust Manifold Leak The exhaust manifold is constantly exposed to extreme heat and pressure. Over time, this can cause the metal to warp, crack, or break at the welds or flanges. The gasket that seals the manifold to the engine block can also wear out or fail from repeated expansion and contraction du ... read more