Common Symptoms of Chevrolet Camaro Headers Problems
The headers in your Chevrolet Camaro's engine give a huge boost in the car's performance because they help release exhaust gases in the combustion chamber faster and more efficient. However, if the headers are not properly maintained, then the exact opposite is bound to happen. If the headers of your car are suspect to create problems, then better check the hood and look for some signs. Here are a few symptoms that lead to malfunctioning Chevrolet Camaro headers:
Decreased fuel efficiency
Leaking headers caused by a crack in its pipes or to the parts attached to it decreases the car's fuel efficiency. This is caused by the oxygen sensor's failure to monitor the right amount fuel to air ratio. Check the headers and the other parts for cracks to resolve this type of problem immediately.
Foul smell from under the hood
If headers under the hood of your car are already malfunctioning, it has a tendency to emit harmful gases in the engine compartment instead of sending them downstream to the other parts of the exhaust system. These pollutants can escape into the atmosphere and spread toxic carbon monoxide. If there's already awful smell coming from under the hood, then you have to check the headers already because it might be the main culprit.
Overheating engine
Since the headers are designed to transfer the exhaust gases from the combustion chamber, it should at least maintain the temperature of the engine at the right level. However, if it is cracked, then the exhaust gases that have escaped can contribute to increase of the engine's temperature. If the gases continue to accumulate and the temperature continues to rise, these may soon result to overheating.
Other troubleshooting tips
It is best to check the headers periodically for any damage. Not only are the problems critical if they're not dealt with immediately, some are even fatal. There can also be an instance when the crack in the header can cause the engine parts to explode into pieces because it has reacted violently with gas vapor. Since the exhaust system parts of a car are connected to each other, you must check not only the headers, but the other parts as well. The problem on one part may have originated from another.