Faulty exhausts greatly affect the amount of carbon emissions that your car pumps into the atmosphere…and into your lungs.

Car exhaust is the result of burning fossil fuels in an internal combustion engine. The exhaust fumes mostly consists of carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide, oxides of nitrogen, hydrocarbons and what are collectively called particulates. They don’t sound appetising, and they are not good for you or the environment. A fault in your exhaust system, such as holes in the exhaust pipes or a problem with your exhaust mufflers (even if the muffler is just to reduce noise), can allow extra amounts of these components into the air, and dangerous levels can seep into the car’s cabin.

Of primary concern is the probability that a faulty exhaust system is allowing carbon monoxide to leak into the passenger compartment. Carbon monoxide is a poisonous gas that is colorless and odorless, and slowly induces drowsiness that leads to unconsiousness and death. Victims often don’t notice its effects and pass out. This can also lead to fatal accidents. Hydrocarbons irriate your eyes, throat and lungs, and can lead to cancer. Nitrogen oxides make smog look brown, and will irritate your eyes and respiratory tract. Carbon dioxide is poisonous only in huge amounts but is a major contributor to the greenhouse effect and global warming. Exhaust particulates are particles of soot, carbon and fuel additives, which can trigger asthma. Diesel engines emit more than petrol engines.

If you are frequently feeling drowsy or having headaches while driving your car, have the exhaust system tested.