Exhaust gases are a common result of the combustion process inside an engine. When the mixture of air and fuel is ignited, these exhaust gases are expelled from the engine through a series of pipes.
These gases eventually exit through the exhaust pipe and disperse into the atmosphere of the external environment. Of course, this causes air pollution and has led to ongoing debates between environmental activists and car manufacturers.
Common Causes of Water Coming from the Exhaust Pipe
Under normal circumstances, water should not come out of a vehicle’s exhaust system. However, if you notice water leaking from the exhaust pipe, it means there is water inside the exhaust system. This is not always a major issue, so there’s no need to be alarmed.
However, if you are not confident in your own abilities, it is recommended to have a professional mechanic diagnose the situation. Otherwise, it could lead to worse outcomes costing hundreds of dollars.
In most cases, it does not become a serious problem. Even in the worst-case scenario, it usually only requires replacing one or two small parts, typically costing around a few hundred dollars. Below are some common causes of water coming from the exhaust gases under normal and abnormal conditions.
1) Condensation (Normal Cause)
After the engine completes the internal combustion process, a mixture of carbon dioxide and water is produced. When the engine cools down, the exhaust gases expelled from the combustion chamber exit through the exhaust pipe.
The condensation of these gases may become more noticeable, and you might see water flowing out of the exhaust pipe.
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2) Catalytic Converter (Normal Cause)
When the exhaust system emits toxic carbon gases, the catalytic converter plays a role in reducing the size of these gases before they exit the exhaust pipe. This makes the vehicle more environmentally friendly and reduces the risk of harming others in the process.
However, while the catalytic converter works to reduce these toxic emissions, a small amount of water vapor is produced as a result. This water vapor forms small droplets that exit through the exhaust pipe.
3) Engine Heat (Normal Cause)
If you live in a cold climate, it is expected to see water leaking from the exhaust gases. Engine components usually need some time to cool down until oil circulates for cooling.
During this time, the moving parts of the engine generate a lot of heat in the first few minutes after starting. The exhaust system also becomes unusually hot.
Because of this, when the heat combines with cold air, water vapor is produced. Subsequently, you may see small droplets falling from the exhaust pipe. If you leave the engine running for a few minutes, it should all disappear.
4) Faulty Piston (Abnormal Cause)
If water is coming from the exhaust pipe due to a faulty piston, this could be a serious issue. Whether it’s caused by the piston or its rings can be determined by smoke coming from the exhaust pipe in addition to water.
If it’s really bad, a burnt smell may fill the cabin. Alternatively, there might be a sweet smell indicating a more significant problem.
Therefore, if you see smoke and water coming from the exhaust pipe and notice a strange smell, do not drive the vehicle. Have it towed to a repair shop to check for issues with the piston or piston rings and replace them as needed.