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📞 01582 733036
Is your exhaust blowing, rattling, or making loud noises? Experiencing loss of power or failed emissions tests? Our Luton workshop provides expert exhaust repairs, replacements, and catalytic converter services for all makes and models. From simple exhaust leaks to complete system replacements, we fix exhaust problems quickly and affordably.
Why Choose Our Exhaust Repair Specialists?
Your exhaust system does more than just reduce noise – it removes harmful gases, reduces emissions, and maintains engine performance. Exhaust problems can cause MOT failures, reduced fuel economy, and dangerous fumes entering the cabin. Our experienced technicians diagnose exhaust issues accurately and provide lasting repairs using quality parts.
Exhaust problems? Call 01582 733036 for expert repair
Signs You Need Exhaust Repair
Common Exhaust Symptoms
- Loud Exhaust Noise
- Much louder than normal
- Roaring or rumbling sound
- Indicates hole, crack, or blown gasket
- Gets louder under acceleration
- Hissing or Popping Sounds
- Hissing from exhaust manifold area
- Popping on deceleration
- Blown exhaust gasket
- Crack in manifold
- Rattling or Vibrating
- Rattling underneath vehicle
- Loose exhaust hangers or brackets
- Heat shield vibration
- Broken mounting points
- Strong Smell of Exhaust Fumes
- Exhaust smell inside cabin
- Dangerous – carbon monoxide risk
- Leak before catalytic converter
- Needs immediate repair
- Reduced Engine Performance
- Loss of power
- Poor acceleration
- Blocked catalytic converter or DPF
- Restricted exhaust flow
- Increased Fuel Consumption
- Using more fuel than usual
- Exhaust leak affecting sensors
- Restricted exhaust causing inefficiency
- Visible Rust or Damage
- Holes in exhaust pipes
- Severe corrosion
- Hanging low underneath
- Failed brackets or hangers
- Failed Emissions Test
- High emissions at MOT
- Catalytic converter failure
- Lambda sensor problems
- Exhaust leaks
- Check Engine Light
- Engine management light on
- Often catalytic converter related
- Lambda sensor faults
- Emissions system problems
- Dragging or Scraping Noise
- Exhaust touching ground
- Broken hangers
- Corroded mounting points
- Immediate attention needed
Common Exhaust Problems We Repair
Exhaust Leaks
What Causes Them:
- Corrosion from road salt and moisture
- Blown exhaust gaskets
- Cracked exhaust manifold
- Perforated pipes
- Failed welded joints
Symptoms:
- Loud blowing noise
- Hissing from engine bay
- Exhaust smell
- Reduced performance
- Failed emissions test
Our Repair Options:
- Temporary repair with exhaust paste (short-term)
- Welding for small holes and cracks
- Section replacement for corroded pipes
- Complete system replacement if necessary
- Exhaust gasket replacement
Typical Cost: £40-80 welding repair, £80-200 section replacement
Blown Exhaust Gaskets
What They Do: Seal joints in exhaust system, particularly at manifold and catalytic converter.
Symptoms:
- Loud ticking or hissing from engine bay
- Noise increases with acceleration
- Smell of exhaust fumes
- Loss of power
Common Locations:
- Exhaust manifold gasket
- Downpipe to catalytic converter joint
- Between exhaust sections
Our Service:
- Identify leaking gasket
- Replace with quality gasket
- Clean mating surfaces
- Torque to correct specification
Typical Cost: £60-150 depending on location
Catalytic Converter Problems
What It Does: Converts harmful exhaust gases (CO, NOx, HC) into less harmful emissions (CO2, H2O, N2).
Common Symptoms:
- Engine management light on
- Failed emissions test
- Loss of power
- Rattling noise from underneath
- Smell of rotten eggs
- Poor fuel economy
Common Fault Codes:
- P0420 – Catalyst System Efficiency Below Threshold (Bank 1)
- P0430 – Catalyst System Efficiency Below Threshold (Bank 2)
- P0421/P0431 – Warm Up Catalyst Efficiency
Important: P0420/P0430 codes are often caused by faulty oxygen sensors, NOT the catalytic converter itself. We diagnose properly before expensive replacements.
Causes of Cat Failure:
- High mileage (natural degradation)
- Engine running rich (too much fuel)
- Oil consumption contaminating catalyst
- Physical damage from impact
- Overheating from engine misfire
Our Diagnostic Approach:
- Read fault codes
- Test upstream and downstream oxygen sensors
- Check for exhaust leaks
- Monitor sensor voltages
- Verify catalyst is actually faulty before replacement
Our Service:
- Accurate diagnosis (not guessing!)
- Replace catalytic converter if genuinely faulty
- Fix underlying causes (sensors, leaks, engine issues)
- Use quality replacement catalysts
- Clear codes and verify repair
Typical Cost: £200-800+ depending on vehicle and catalyst type
DPF (Diesel Particulate Filter) Issues
Diesel Vehicles Only:
Common Symptoms:
- DPF warning light
- Loss of power/limp mode
- Exhaust smell
- Increased fuel consumption
- Failed emissions test
Our DPF Services:
- DPF pressure testing
- Forced regeneration
- DPF cleaning
- DPF replacement if blocked beyond repair
- Sensor replacement
See our DPF and AdBlue Solutions page for detailed information
Lambda/Oxygen Sensor Faults
What They Do: Monitor oxygen levels in exhaust to optimize fuel mixture.
Symptoms:
- Engine management light
- Poor fuel economy
- Failed emissions test
- Rough idle
- Black smoke (running rich)
Common Issues:
- Sensor contamination
- Wiring damage
- Connector corrosion
- Sensor failure with age
Our Service:
- Test sensor operation
- Check wiring and connections
- Replace faulty sensors
- Clear fault codes
- Verify emissions improvement
Typical Cost: £80-200 per sensor depending on location
Exhaust Manifold Cracks
What It Does: Collects exhaust gases from engine cylinders into one pipe.
Common Symptoms:
- Loud ticking or hissing from engine bay
- Noise worse when cold
- Smell of exhaust fumes
- Loss of power
- Failed emissions test
Causes:
- Thermal stress (heating/cooling cycles)
- Poor quality materials (some manufacturers)
- Age and corrosion
- Common on certain engines
Our Service:
- Diagnose cracked manifold
- Replace with quality replacement
- New gaskets and hardware
- Test for leaks after installation
Typical Cost: £200-500 depending on engine and accessibility
Exhaust Hangers and Brackets
What They Do: Support exhaust system and isolate it from vehicle body.
Symptoms:
- Rattling underneath vehicle
- Exhaust hanging low
- Knocking when going over bumps
- Excessive movement of exhaust
Our Service:
- Inspect all hangers and brackets
- Replace perished rubber hangers
- Repair or replace broken brackets
- Ensure proper exhaust support
- Quick, inexpensive repair
Typical Cost: £20-60 for hangers
Heat Shields
What They Do: Protect vehicle underbody from exhaust heat.
Symptoms:
- Loud rattling (especially when cold)
- Vibrating noise
- Metallic buzzing sound
- Annoying but not dangerous
Our Service:
- Identify loose or corroded heat shield
- Secure with new fixings
- Remove if severely corroded and not critical
- Stop annoying rattles
Typical Cost: £30-80
Complete Exhaust System Replacement
When Needed:
- Severe corrosion throughout system
- Multiple leaks and holes
- Failed emissions test
- More cost-effective than multiple repairs
Our Service:
- Full exhaust system from manifold to tailpipe
- Catalytic converter included
- Quality aftermarket systems
- Fitted with new gaskets and hangers
- Usually same-day service
System Types Available:
- Standard replacement systems
- Stainless steel systems (longer lasting)
- Sports exhaust systems (where appropriate)
- OEM equivalent quality
Typical Cost: £200-600 for complete system depending on vehicle
Our Exhaust Repair Process
Step 1: Visual Inspection
- Examine exhaust system for obvious damage
- Check for rust, holes, and corrosion
- Look for loose or broken hangers
- Inspect heat shields
- Check for leaks while engine running
Step 2: Diagnostic Testing (If Warning Lights Present)
- Read fault codes from ECU
- Test oxygen/lambda sensors
- Check catalytic converter efficiency
- Monitor sensor data
- Emissions analysis if available
Step 3: Comprehensive Assessment
- Test exhaust back pressure if restricted
- Inspect entire system on ramp
- Check mounting points and brackets
- Assess severity of corrosion
- Identify all problem areas
Step 4: Clear Explanation
We explain:
- What’s wrong with your exhaust
- Safety and MOT implications
- Repair options available
- Written estimate before work
- Most cost-effective solution
Step 5: Quality Repairs
- Use quality exhaust parts
- Proper welding techniques
- Correct gaskets and fixings
- Secure mounting
- Test for leaks after repair
Step 6: Final Checks
- Start engine and check for leaks
- Road test to verify noise eliminated
- Check for vibrations or rattles
- Ensure proper ground clearance
- Clear fault codes if applicable
Most exhaust repairs completed same day
Exhaust and Emissions
MOT Emissions Tests
Your exhaust system must meet emissions standards to pass MOT:
Petrol Vehicles:
- CO (Carbon Monoxide) limits
- HC (Hydrocarbon) limits
- Lambda sensor operation
Diesel Vehicles:
- Smoke opacity limits
- Excessive smoke fails
- DPF must be present and functional
Common Causes of Emissions Failures:
- Faulty catalytic converter
- Faulty lambda sensors
- Exhaust leaks before catalyst
- Engine running rich or lean
- Worn engine (oil consumption)
- DPF removed or blocked (diesel)
Our Pre-MOT Service:
- Exhaust system inspection
- Emissions system check
- Lambda sensor testing
- Fix issues before MOT
- Prevent failure fees
Environmental Responsibility
Legal Requirements:
- Catalytic converters must not be removed
- DPF removal is illegal for road use
- Exhaust modifications must meet emissions standards
We Only Provide:
- Legal, compliant exhaust solutions
- Proper catalytic converter replacements
- MOT-compliant repairs
- Environmentally responsible services
Exhaust Problems by Vehicle Make
VAG Group (Audi, VW, Seat, Skoda)
Common Issues:
- Downpipe to catalyst joint leaks
- Manifold gasket failures
- DPF issues on diesel models
- Lambda sensor faults
Our Experience:
- Know common VAG exhaust weak points
- Quality replacement parts available
- Experience with TDI DPF systems
Mercedes-Benz
Common Issues:
- Exhaust manifold cracks (some V6/V8 engines)
- Catalytic converter failures
- DPF issues on diesel models
- Flexible joint failures
Our Experience:
- Experience with Mercedes exhaust systems
- Quality parts for lasting repairs
BMW
Common Issues:
- Exhaust manifold cracks
- Catalytic converter efficiency codes
- Exhaust flap actuator failures
- Flexible sections cracking
Our Experience:
- Know BMW exhaust system issues
- Proper diagnosis before expensive parts
Ford
Common Issues:
- Exhaust manifold gasket leaks
- Catalytic converter failures
- Flexi pipe corrosion
- DPF problems (diesel)
Our Experience:
- Stock common Ford exhaust parts
- Experience with EcoBoost and TDCi systems
Japanese Vehicles (Toyota, Honda, Nissan, Mazda)
Common Issues:
- Generally reliable exhaust systems
- Corrosion in high-mileage vehicles
- Lambda sensor failures
- Standard wear and tear
Our Experience:
- Quality parts maintaining reliability
- Stainless steel options for longevity
Exhaust Repair vs. Replacement
When Repair is Suitable
- Small holes or cracks
- Single section corroded
- Blown gaskets
- Loose hangers
- Early-stage corrosion
Advantages:
- Lower cost
- Quick repair
- Environmentally better
When Replacement is Better
- Multiple holes throughout system
- Severe corrosion
- Failed emissions test
- More cost-effective than multiple repairs
- Long-term solution
Advantages:
- Guaranteed reliability
- No further issues short-term
- New catalyst improves emissions
- Quieter operation
We Provide Honest Advice: We won’t recommend expensive replacement if repair is suitable, and we won’t patch up an exhaust that needs replacing.
What Our Customers Say
“My exhaust was blowing loudly. Took it to Dudley Auto and they diagnosed a blown manifold gasket. Fixed same day at a very reasonable price. Quiet again and passed MOT the following week. Professional service.”
– Local Customer
“Told by another garage I needed a new catalytic converter for £600 because of P0420 code. Got second opinion from Dudley Auto who actually tested the sensors properly – turned out to be a faulty lambda sensor. Fixed for under £150. Really appreciate honest diagnosis.”
– Local Customer
“Exhaust rattling drove me mad for weeks. Other garages couldn’t find the problem. Dudley Auto identified loose heat shield in 5 minutes and secured it properly. No more rattle and only charged me £40. Excellent service.”
– Local Customer
Service Areas We Cover
Primary Location: Luton and surrounding areas
We regularly provide exhaust repair services for customers from:
- Hitchin
- St Albans
- Welwyn Garden City
- Dunstable
- Harpenden
- Stevenage
- Watford
- Hemel Hempstead
- Milton Keynes
Over 600 satisfied customers served
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How much does exhaust repair cost?
A: Simple welding repairs: £40-80. Section replacement: £80-200. Complete exhaust system: £200-600. Catalytic converter: £200-800+. We provide quotes after inspection.
Q: Can you repair a hole in my exhaust?
A: Small holes can often be welded. Larger holes or severely corroded sections usually require replacement for lasting repair.
Q: How long does exhaust repair take?
A: Most exhaust repairs are completed same day. Simple repairs: 1-2 hours. Complete system replacement: 2-4 hours.
Q: Will a blowing exhaust fail MOT?
A: Yes. Exhaust leaks before the catalytic converter, excessive noise, or emissions failures will cause MOT failure.
Q: Is it dangerous to drive with exhaust leak?
A: Leaks before the catalytic converter can allow dangerous carbon monoxide fumes into the cabin. This is a serious safety risk.
Q: Can you tell if I need a catalytic converter without guessing?
A: Yes. We test oxygen sensors, check for exhaust leaks, and monitor sensor data. Many P0420/P0430 codes are NOT the catalyst itself.
Q: Do you do stainless steel exhausts?
A: Yes, we can supply and fit stainless steel exhaust systems which last much longer than mild steel, especially in UK climate.
Q: What causes rattling from underneath?
A: Common causes are loose heat shields, broken exhaust hangers, or loose brackets. Usually quick and inexpensive to fix.
Q: Why does my exhaust smell inside the car?
A: This indicates an exhaust leak, likely before the catalytic converter. This is dangerous (carbon monoxide risk) and needs immediate repair.
Q: How long do exhausts last?
A: Mild steel exhausts: 3-6 years typically. Stainless steel: 10+ years. Varies based on driving conditions and road salt exposure.
Q: Can I just patch up exhaust holes myself?
A: Temporary patches (paste, tape) are short-term only. Proper welding or replacement needed for MOT and lasting repair.
Q: Do you stock exhausts for my car?
A: We stock common exhaust sections and can usually source complete systems same or next day for most vehicles.
Book Your Exhaust Repair Today
Don’t let exhaust problems affect your safety, comfort, or wallet. Our experienced exhaust specialists diagnose issues accurately and provide lasting repairs using quality parts. From annoying rattles to serious leaks, we fix exhaust problems quickly and affordably.
Expert Exhaust Diagnostics & Repair
All Makes & Models
Same-Day Service Available
Quality Parts & Honest Advice
Easy Online Booking
Book your exhaust repair online 24/7 with instant confirmation.
Book Online: Visit our booking page for convenient online scheduling
Exhaust Problems?
For exhaust repairs or urgent issues:
Call Now: ✆ 01582 733036
WhatsApp: ✆ 079 75 71 5333
Email: info@dudleyautoservice.co.uk
Visit Us: 45 Dudley Street, Luton, LU2 0NP, UK
Open: Monday–Saturday, 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
