Why do exhaust headers turn red after engine runs a few minutes why?

The exhaust headers of a car engine turn red after the engine has been running for a few minutes because they are exposed to high temperatures. The exhaust gases from the engine are very hot, and they heat up the headers as they pass through them. The headers are also exposed to the hot air from the engine bay, which further contributes to their high temperatures.

The headers are typically made of steel or stainless steel, which are both metals that have a high thermal conductivity. This means that they conduct heat very well, which allows them to quickly heat up when exposed to high temperatures. The headers are also relatively thin, which further contributes to their rapid heat transfer.

The red color of the headers is due to the fact that they are glowing hot. When a metal is heated to a high enough temperature, it will begin to emit light. The color of the light depends on the temperature of the metal. The headers are typically glowing at temperatures between 1,000 and 1,200 degrees Fahrenheit, which is hot enough to emit red light.

The red color of the headers is not a sign of a problem. In fact, it is a normal and expected occurrence. However, if the headers are glowing at a very bright red or orange color, it could be a sign that the engine is running too hot. If you are concerned about the temperature of your exhaust headers, you should have them checked out by a qualified mechanic.