A vehicle can still be driven when the exhaust pipe leaks, but the risk needs to be assessed based on the location and severity of the leak. If the leak is in the tail section, it usually has little impact on vehicle performance, only possibly producing additional noise. However, a leak in the front section will reduce exhaust back pressure, leading to a drop in low-speed torque, weak acceleration, and increased fuel consumption. Turbocharged models are more sensitive to this, while naturally aspirated engines are less affected. At high speeds, a front-section leak may slightly boost power due to smoother exhaust flow. A leak in the middle section may accelerate exhaust pipe rust due to the leakage of high-temperature gases, and even damage surrounding electrical components. A severe leak can cause engine power loss, increased carbon deposits, and failure in exhaust gas testing, affecting the vehicle's annual inspection. If aging interface gaskets, exhaust pipe rust, or abnormal noise are found in daily use, It is best to have the vehicle inspected and repaired as soon as possible. Long-term neglect may lead to exhaust pipe fracture or catalytic converter damage, with repair costs potentially ranging from hundreds to thousands of ringgit. For turbocharged vehicles, It is best to prioritize handling front-section leaks to avoid a drop in supercharging efficiency.
