Symptom Chart: Exhaust System

Diagnostics in this service information assume a certain skill level and knowledge of Ford-specific diagnostic practices. REFER to DIAGNOSTIC METHODS for information regarding Ford-specific diagnostic practices.

Verify the customer concern and then inspect the components of the exhaust system for obvious signs of damage or other mechanical concerns using the following chart.

VISUAL INSPECTION CHART - MECHANICAL

Mechanical
Exhaust pipe pinched or crushed Damaged muffler Broken or damaged exhaust hanger brackets Damaged catalytic converter Cracked exhaust manifold Loose or damaged heat shields

Verify that the exhaust system is installed correctly, with clamps correctly located and tightened to specification. If the fault is not visually evident, determine the symptom. GO to Symptom Chart below or REFER to SYMPTOM CHART: NVH .

SYMPTOM CHART

Condition	Possible Sources	Actions
Vehicle has low or no power - vehicle performance complaint	Exhaust pipe pinched or crushed Damaged catalytic converter Loose obstruction in exhaust	REFER to the INTRODUCTION - GASOLINE MODELS .
Vehicle has low or no power - vehicle performance complaint	Restricted exhaust (possible frozen condensate in muffler)	CHECK drain holes for foreign material. PARK the vehicle inside to thaw. TEST the vehicle for normal operation. If the concern is still present, REFER to the INTRODUCTION - GASOLINE MODELS .
Burning smell - usually occurs at idle, with possible traces of smoke	Foreign material caught in exhaust system Missing heat shields	INSPECT the exhaust system for foreign material or missing heat shields. 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 Excessive sulfur content in fuel	At times, a slight sulfur smell is normal for catalytic converters. The cause is the sulfur content in the gasoline being used. ADVISE the customer no repair is required.
Odor - described as a sulfur or rotten egg smell	Rich fuel conditions Misfire conditions	REFER to the INTRODUCTION - GASOLINE MODELS .
Visible rust on surface of exhaust pipes	Catalytic converter/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, the condition is normal.