When your exhaust hangers fail, it can feel like the end of the world, especially if it happens so suddenly. When the hangers break off or become warped, other pieces can fall off and driving with broken exhaust system can be dangerous for you and others.
When your exhaust hanger fails, there are a couple of quick fixes that will keep your exhaust system intact for the time being. There are factors that contribute to their failure and understanding these factors is key to their maintenance and longevity.
You do not need to be an auto expert to know your way around an exhaust system. Here are some common questions regarding exhaust hanger failures.
Are Exhaust Leaks Worth Fixing?
Do Exhaust Hangers Ever Melt?
Every component of the exhaust system is affected by heat and the car’s movement. Since exhaust hangers are in direct contact with the exhaust system, they are exposed to heat. Every part of the exhaust system is designed to withstand high temperatures, so it is unlikely that your exhaust hanger will melt.
While high temperatures can be a contributing factor to system failure, they are not the most common. In any case, it is good to be aware of how hot different parts of the exhaust system can get.
According to Jerry, a car insurance broker site, the tail pipe alone can reach temperatures between 400 to 500 degrees Fahrenheit and as high as 1000 degrees, with higher performance exhaust systems.
How Hot Do Exhaust Hangers Get?
On average a vehicles exhaust pipes can reach anywhere from 400 – 500 degrees F. Exhaust hangers in direct contact with the pipes more than likely get just as hot.
The entire exhaust system can get hot, so every part of it is affected. Consider the source of the heat. Exhaust hangers can get hot because the exhaust system is designed to convey gases, heat, and sound. The exhaust hanger is one of the main components of an exhaust system, which include:
- Exhaust manifold
- Converter
- Muffler
- Tail pipe
Since the different components of an exhaust system can get heated, exhaust hangers can take the heat as well. It is important to know how each component works.
Exhaust Manifold
The manifold is the main component of the exhaust system. It funnels exhaust gases from the car’s engine to the exhaust pipes. Because of this function, the exhaust manifold is exposed to the highest temperatures of any part of the exhaust system.
According to AutoGuru, the manifold tends to expand and contract because of constant heating and cooling throughout its life span. This can cause it to crack and leak over time, which can also affect other components, including the pipe and exhaust hanger.
Converter
Another important part in the exhaust system. The catalytic converter converts harmful gasses, such as hydrocarbons and carbon monoxide, into less harmful substances (such as water vapor). This is done through simple chemical reaction.
The catalytic converter can be prone to overheating because of spark plugs or leaky exhaust valves. In addition to overheating, the converter can also take a lot of damage from debris kicked up from the road or the vibrations that come from car movement.
Muffler and Tail Pipe
The muffler reduces loud and unpleasant noise generated by your vehicle. It also manages the flow of gases and fumes from the engine. Just imagine how unpleasant your ride would be without these!
The tail pipe directs gases and fumes away from your vehicle, keeping you and your passengers safe. It is also one of the most visible components of the exhaust system which means that it is prone to damage by road debris and constant vibration.
Exhaust Hanger
While it is important to keep the exhaust system of your car in shape, you need to maintain your exhaust hangers as well. After all, they keep the entire system in place, attached to the body of your car. If your exhaust hanger suddenly breaks off, you could find yourself in a bad situation.
It is possible to drive without an exhaust hanger, but you will run into a couple of issues. First, it is illegal to drive with a broken exhaust. Falling parts could pose a danger to you and others around you. With that said, it is important to attend to the problem immediately or, at least, ensure that every part of the exhaust system, including the exhaust hanger, are in good condition.
Exhaust hangers, like any other part of your vehicle, can wear down over time. Exhaust pipes can bump against the road or get jostled around while you’re driving, also causing the hangers to shake. You may notice your exhaust is hanging low to the ground or making an excessively loud noise.
What To Use To Hang Exhaust Temporarily
If you do not have another set of exhaust hangers at hand or you’re waiting for your new one to arrive, you will need something to keep the exhaust system in place. You have a few, temporary fixes available to you:
- Mechanics wire
- Coat hanger wire
You need materials that can withstand high temperatures and movement. While plastic zip ties seem like a good, quick fix, keep in mind that they are made of plastic. They will melt quickly and can make the problem even worse, especially if you are using them to completely replace your current exhaust hanger.
Stainless steel zip ties, which can be found at your local home improvement store, are a better solution. If you absolutely need to use them, it is best to use them with your existing hanger until you get a new one.
Duct tape may seem like another quick solution, but they do not perform well under high temperatures either.
Your best would be mechanics wire or coat hanger wire. Both are malleable, durable, and can withstand higher temperatures. There are many video and written DIY tutorials that can guide you on how to this safely and achieve the best results. Again, you should look to replacing your broken or loose exhaust hanger with a newer one.
Best Heat Resistant Exhaust Hangers
Rubber exhaust hangers are resistant to high temperatures and are made of durable material. They come in many different shapes and sizes. Some are made with specific car models, but most exhaust hangers that you find are universal.
The most highly rated exhaust hangers on Amazon are made of stainless steel. But rubber hangers can better absorb vibrations and the “shock” of bumps, making them more flexible.
To make your exhaust hanger last longer and more heat resistant, it is a good idea to insulate and protect the entire exhaust system. Exhaust insulators are durable, heat resistant, and flexible. They can be easily purchased online or at your local auto shop or home improvement store.
Conclusion
Exhaust hangers fail because of typical use and abuse. Like every piece of the exhaust system, they wear out overtime due to heat, vibrations, and age. Maintaining your exhaust hangers means regular maintenance of the entire exhaust system of your vehicle.