The Sign of the Shield (Heat Shield Repair and Replacement)

September 14, 2025

Even in the months where temperatures are cooler, heat is still an enemy of your vehicle. When your engine runs, it creates heat, so there are numerous heat shields that protect other parts from those higher temperatures. Heat shields are installed around several areas of the exhaust system. Ot... More

Sounds Like a Hot Rod (Noisy Exhaust System)

September 7, 2025

Driving along, your exhaust system's rumbling so loud that people turn and stare at you pass by. You're wondering when the police are going to pull you over for illegal noise. Your mind immediately thinks, aha! A broken muffler. Well, your exhaust system is composed of many more parts than just... More

What Is an EGR Valve? (EGR Valve Service)

June 29, 2025

If you've ever felt your vehicle hesitate, go, then hesitate again, you might think there's something wrong with the transmission. After all, it's not moving smoothly down the road. But there are plenty of malfunctions that can cause those symptoms, one of them being something you may have nev... More

Catalytic Converter Replacement

March 30, 2025

Many of us have become aware of how important it is to keep our planets air clean, and your vehicle has a key component that helps do just that: the catalytic converter. Its in the exhaust system, and its job is to superheat unburned, harmful byproducts in the exhaust, so they dont get spewed ou... More

Charlie's Fast Lube Dexter Automotive Tips: Diagnostic Service

October 1, 2023

Imagine waking up one morning with a stomach ache. You pick up the phone, call the doctors office and say, Ive got a really bad tummy ache. How much will it cost to make me feel better? Of course you wouldnt do that. You know that there could be a lot of reasons for your symptoms and that the doc... More

Charlie's Fast Lube Dexter Service for Your Exhaust System

May 21, 2023

Your vehicle's exhaust system is more than just a tailpipe and a muffler. In fact, it is one of the most complex systems on your vehicle. The manifold is attached to the vehicle engine. It collects exhaust from the cylinders and directs it into the exhaust pipe. Gaskets seal the connection of th... More

Dexter Exhaust and Emissions Service

April 10, 2022

Many Dexter residents don't realize that there is more to exhaust system maintenance than just tailpipes and mufflers, if you can see smoke or if it's too loud. Exhaust service at a full-service automotive center like Charlie's Fast Lube Dexter is really a lot more comprehensive these days.For e... More

Exhaust Service at Charlie's Fast Lube Dexter: Passing the Smell Test

November 28, 2021

The exhaust system on a vehicle is more complex than most Dexter residents realize. It contains everything from old-fashioned pipes and clamps to sophisticated computers and sensors. All Missouri folks know a properly functioning exhaust system is good for the environment, but sometimes we forge... More