How to Clear a Clogged Exhaust Pipe?

[Kirk]

From a design perspective, exhaust pipes cannot be cleaned; severe blockages require complete replacement. Effects of a clogged exhaust pipe: 1. Insufficient power, slow acceleration: Exhaust gases cannot exit, and fresh air cannot enter, leading to inadequate combustion and reduced power. 2. Increased forced downshifts in automatic transmission vehicles: A clogged exhaust pipe reduces engine power, prompting the driver to press the accelerator. However, the ECU will automatically force the transmission to downshift based on the throttle position. 3. Difficulty starting the engine: Even with a charged battery, proper fuel injection, and normal compression pressure, the engine may fail to start because fresh air struggles to enter. 4. Rattling noises from the exhaust system during hard acceleration or emergency braking. In most cases, the primary cause of exhaust pipe blockage is a neglected catalytic converter. Maintenance of the catalytic converter: 1. Use unleaded gasoline: The catalytic converter is highly sensitive to lead. Leaded gasoline can cause blockages. 2. Regular maintenance: Clean the throttle body every 10,000 kilometers. If performance remains poor after cleaning, the catalytic converter may need cleaning.