This past weekend, I've done some engine "work". Pretty much just cleaned the throttle body with some cleaner. When backing out of the driveway, I did over a bit of curb, but checked underneath just to make sure nothing came loose and everything looked fine.

I do know I have an exhaust leak somewhere, and the EGR ports are clogged, which I plan on cleaning on Sunday. By power of deduction, I have a feeling it's probably the exhaust.

Every time I accelerate, it sounds like a go-kart (very obnoxious puttering noise). Though quite funny, it's a little annoying.

Ideas?

 

Pinpoint the location of the exhaust sound.
- Park the car leave the engine idling.
- Hold a wadded-up rag against the tailpipe, not enought to stall the engine.
- The higher back-pressure will make the exhaust leak louder & easier to find.

 

It sounds like it's coming from the front half of the car. It is quite loose in the back too, so it looks like this will be a weekend project! Thanks, Jim!

 

Check around the exhaust manifold area. If you went over a curb, you could have cracked the manifold, or any of the piping before the cat.

 

It's a 2-person job. Hold the rag while your helper looks & listens up front.

 

Not sure if this is any help at all but while I was driving to work yesterday, a little bit of white smoke for a short bit (not more than a minute) shot out the back. First time it has happened since going over the bump... I know that usually means a head gasket/coolant leak, so I'll be checking color/level of coolant tomorrow.