How to Troubleshoot the Exhaust System in a Chevy Cobalt

Listen to the car as it idles to see if it makes any strange sounds like hissing or popping. Accelerate the car and listen for any ticking sounds. Your Cobalt may have an exhaust problem if it makes noises.

Lift the hood of your car and check the exhaust manifold, which is in the cylinder block, for any leaks. Examine the manifold for cracks or holes which can cause exhaust problems like leaking carbon monoxide or gasses leaking into the car.

See if there are any loose parts along the exhaust system. You may hear rattling or your exhaust may sound loud. The parts may need to simply be replaced or tightened.

Examine the exhaust pipe when the car is running to see if there is any colored smoke coming out the of the tail pipe. Blue smoke may mean you need to change a gasket or an O-ring. Look for white smoke which may indicate a bad gasket. Check the level of fuel in your cylinder if you see black smoke coming out of the exhaust. This could indicate that you have a problem with your carburetor, your fuel pump, or maybe a spark plug that leaks.

Test your oil every few months using a dip stick. You want to see if it's too thick which may mean it's contaminated. Make sure there is no water or antifreeze leaking into your oil which can indicate an exhaust leak.