Exhaust System

The best protection against carbon monoxide entering the vehicle body is a properly maintained engine exhaust system.

If you notice a change in the sound of the exhaust system, or if exhaust fumes can be detected inside the vehicle, or when the underbody or rear of the vehicle is damaged, have an authorized service technician inspect the complete exhaust system and the adjacent body areas for broken, damaged, deteriorated, or incorrectly positioned parts. Open seams or loose connections can allow exhaust fumes to enter the passenger compartment. In addition, inspect the exhaust system each time the vehicle is raised for lubrication or oil change. Replace as necessary.

• Exhaust fumes can injure or kill. They contain carbon monoxide (CO), which is colorless and odorless. Breathing it can make you unconscious and can eventually poison you.
• A hot exhaust system can cause a fire if you park over materials that can burn. Such materials may include grass or leaves contacting your exhaust system. Do not park or operate your vehicle in areas where your exhaust system may contact anything that can burn.

• The catalytic converter requires the use of unleaded gasoline only. Leaded gasoline will destroy the efficiency of the catalytic converter, an emissions control device, and can seriously reduce engine power and cause serious engine damage.
• Catalytic converter damage can occur if your vehicle is not maintained in proper operating condition. If the engine misfires, especially when accompanied by engine misfire or other obvious loss of performance, have your vehicle serviced as soon as possible. Continued operation of your vehicle with a serious malfunction may cause the converter to overheat, which may result in damage to the converter and vehicle.

Under normal operating conditions, the catalytic converter does not require maintenance. However, it is important to keep the engine properly tuned to ensure proper converter operation and prevent possible damage.

NOTE:

Intentional tampering with emissions control systems may result in civil penalties assessed against you.

In unusual situations involving rough engine operation, a burnt smell may indicate a serious and abnormal catalytic converter overheat. In this case, stop the vehicle, turn off the engine, and allow it to cool. Service, including restoration to factory specifications, must be obtained immediately.

To minimize the possibility of catalytic converter damage:

• Do not turn the ignition off when the transmission is in gear and the vehicle is moving.
• Do not attempt to start the vehicle by pushing or towing the vehicle.
• Do not run the engine at idle with any ignition components disconnected or removed, such as during diagnostic testing, and do not operate for extended periods during very rough idle or malfunction conditions.