Exhaust Leak?

[jrwitten]

During the last couple weeks I've been hearing this faint tktktk from the engine bay. It starts after the engine warms and I only seem to hear it under acceleration at around 1500-2500 rpm. Don't hear it at idle or when downshifting.

My mpg have also dropped about 5-6. Did an inspection of the exhaust system, everything seemed tight and properly attached. Wouldnt an exhaust leak make the same noise all the time at any rpm? Need more opinions before I start wrenching....

[FestYboy]

small exhaust leaks present themselves when the engine is under load. look for a soot or white ash deposite at any joints between the head and cat, likely suspect is the manifold gasket.

[WmWatt]

Try this: Lift hood, start car, stand in front and pull on throttle cable to rev engine, look and feel for escaping exhaust in engine compartment.