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Step 1
Examine your exhaust manifold and cylinder head. Leaks can happen where these devices connect due to thermal expansion and contraction. Each time you turn on, drive or turn off your Prelude, shear stress burdens the exhaust manifold gasket. Leaks can develop over time.
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Step 2
Listen for irregular popping sounds or hissing when the engine is live. Additionally, check the exhaust ports on the cylinder head for signs of paint discoloration or burns. Inspect your spark plug wires and boots for burns.
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Step 3
Check the area that connects the exhaust manifold and head pipe. The back-and-forth motion of your engine caused by drive torque leads to movement at the joint where the head pipe meets the exhaust manifold. You could see discoloration caused by hot gases that escaped this area. This pertains to the 4-cylinder and 6-cylinder engines.
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Step 4
Inspect exhaust pipes for defects. Find large pliers to pressure the pipes. Replace pipes that break or give under pressure. Make certain to keep the engine going while you test the system. Leaks and other problems are more noticeable with the engine going.
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Step 5
See if you hear weird noises coming from exhaust areas around your muffler. A buzzing sound that increases with acceleration could relate to exhaust system problems. A whistle sound or high-pitched hissing noise in the tailpipe could come from system restrictions. Find a mechanic to read your engine intake manifold vacuum. Low readings usually reflect exhaust blockage.
