Why does the exhaust pipe emit a pungent smell?
2 Answers
Exhaust pipe emitting a pungent smell is due to the odor released when the silicon material inside the three-way catalytic converter heats up, which is a normal phenomenon. Below is a partial introduction to the exhaust pipe:1. The car exhaust pipe plays a role in vibration damping and noise reduction for the car body, extending the life of the exhaust muffler system. The main material of the exhaust pipe is stainless steel.2. Since the exhaust gas from the car leaves the engine under high pressure, the main noise reduction is achieved by the car's exhaust pipe, which contains a muffler inside, significantly reducing the car's noise.3. Its main working principle is to divert the airflow through multiple channels, where these diversions rub and collide with each other, gradually reducing the airflow speed. This cycle repeats, ultimately allowing the exhaust gas to be emitted through the car's exhaust pipe.
As an ordinary car owner who drives daily, I find it quite a headache when the exhaust pipe emits a pungent smell, especially when taking kids out—that odor is really uncomfortable. The main reasons are engine combustion issues, such as incorrect fuel-to-air ratio, unburned fuel being expelled, or a faulty catalytic converter failing to purify the exhaust. It could also be due to engine oil leakage mixing in, releasing that sharp smell. This problem should be taken seriously—not only does it reduce car performance and increase fuel consumption, but it can also cause dizziness and nausea, affecting health. I recommend not trying to fix it yourself; instead, drive to a repair shop immediately for inspection. They can test exhaust components, replace spark plugs or fuel filters, and solve the issue early to save money and ensure safety. Remember to schedule regular maintenance to prevent such faults.
