How To Identify an Exhaust Manifold Leak If you’re hearing odd noises or smelling unusual odors from your vehicle’s engine, you should diagnose and address the cause of the issue immediately. An exhaust manifold leak can cause engine damage, so you must understand how to identify it. Then, you can take the necessary steps to keep your truck engine functional. Listen for Unusual Noises When starting your vehicle, pay close attention to unusual noises. A loud hissing or ticking sound is ...