Exhaust gases are the common result of the internal combustion process in an engine. Once the air-fuel mixture is ignited, these exhaust gases escape from the engine through a series of pipes.
These gases will eventually exit the exhaust pipe and spread into the air of the external environment. Of course, this creates air pollution and continues to spark controversy between environmental activists and car manufacturers.
Common Causes of Water Coming from an Exhaust Pipe
Under normal circumstances, you won’t see water coming from the vehicle’s exhaust system. But if you notice your exhaust pipe leaking water, it means your exhaust system must contain water inside. This is not a reason to be alarmed because the cause is not always a big problem.
However, it would be a good idea to have this situation examined and diagnosed by a professional mechanic if you are not confident in your abilities. Otherwise, it could create a worse outcome that will cost you hundreds.
In most of these situations, it won’t be serious. The worst-case scenario would normally be that you need to replace a small component or two which will cost you a few hundred dollars. Below are some common causes of water from exhaust gases under normal and abnormal conditions.
1) Condensation (Normal Cause)
After your engine has just performed the internal combustion process, a mixture of carbon dioxide and water forms. Once your engine has had time to cool down, there are remaining exhaust gases that leave the chamber and exit the exhaust pipe.
The condensation of these gases is more apparent, meaning you will be able to see water flowing from the exhaust pipe.
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2) Catalytic Converter (Normal Cause)
When the exhaust system emits toxic carbon gases, the catalytic converter is responsible for reducing the size of these gases before they exit the exhaust pipe. This makes the vehicle more environmentally friendly while reducing the risk of harming others in the process.
However, as the catalytic converter works to reduce these toxic emissions, a small amount of water vapor forms as a result. This water vapor will form small droplets that exit the exhaust pipe.
3) Engine Heat (Normal Cause)
If you live in an environment with cold temperatures, you can expect to see water escaping from your exhaust. The components of an engine normally need some time to let oil circulate through them to cool them down.
In the meantime, the moving components of the engine will generate a lot of heat in the first few minutes after starting. The exhaust system will also be exceptionally hot.
For this reason, water vapor is produced when the heat merges with the cold air. Then, you will see small water droplets falling from the exhaust pipe. Wait a few minutes with the engine running and everything should disappear.
4) Faulty Piston (Abnormal Cause)
This can be serious when bad pistons cause water to come out of your exhaust pipe. You will know if the pistons or their rings are the cause because you will also see smoke coming from the exhaust pipe in addition to the water.
If it’s really bad, then a burning smell will fill the inside of the cabin. Either that, or a sweet aroma which would indicate an even bigger problem.
So, if you experience strange smells with smoke and water coming from your exhaust pipe, do not drive your vehicle. Have it towed to an auto repair shop and ask them to confirm that it is indeed your pistons and/or piston rings and replace them if necessary.