The Car Care Clinic with the Dr John

95 Impala SS - Noises like exhaust leak

Shaun in Windsor

Question

I have a '95 Impala SS. It sounds like it has an exhaust leak, when the engine is first started. After driving for about 10 minutes or so it goes away. Can you help?

Answer

If it sounds like an exhaust leak, it probably is Shaun. While the engine is cold, closely inspect the exhaust manifolds primarily near the rear of the engine; that's where the problems most commonly are found. Usually you'll find that a bolt has loosened up allowing the exhaust manifold to pull away from the engine. As the engine heats up the exhaust manifold expands closing the exhaust leak. I would recommend having the problem corrected before it gets worse or requires additional parts and labor.

Good Luck!
Dr. John