Leaking exhaust manifold

[smkybr74]

Hello. Will it hurt the engine if I continue to drive the vehicle with an exhaust manifold leak? I see the far back bolt on the passenger side has broken off or missing. I hear it may affect the valve. Besides the ticking and “squealing” noise while cold, the vehicle drives fine. After the engine heats up the noise is gone. I have been driving the vehicle for months in this condition. Thank you.

 

[strutaeng]

No, it should be fine driving it like that.

 

[gtrslngrchris]

That's a classic GM feature, embrace it.

 

[Fless]

It should be fine unless it's still leaking after being warmed up. An exhaust leak can cause a lean condition and the engine computer may richen the fuel mix to compensate, causing catalytic converter failure down the road. Fuel trims would indicate if that's happening. YMMV

 

[Marky Dissod]

Will it hurt the engine if I continue to drive the vehicle with an exhaust manifold leak?
I see the far back bolt on the passenger side has broken off or missing. I hear it may affect the valve.
Besides the ticking and “squealing” noise while cold, the vehicle drives fine.
After the engine heats up the noise is gone. I have been driving the vehicle for months in this condition.

When an engine has an exhaust manifold leak, the oxygen sensor(s) will see a FALSE lean condition.
To 'correct' this FALSE lean condition, it will add extra fuel.
So it will hurt your wallet - exhaust manifold leaks waste fuel in closed loop.

You also need to change your oil more often, as it is being diluted by even more gasoline than normal.

Driving around for too long with an exhaust manifold leak will age your catalytic converter more quickly as well.