When you have a car, you will know when most of the key parts need to be looked at. When there is a sputtering noise when you turn the car’s engine on, you need to have the engine looked at. When you hear a squeak when you hit the brake, the brakes will need to be assessed.
Do you know when it is time to replace your car’s muffler? It is not often seen as a core part of your car, but its role is an important one. It reduces noise that can come from the exhaust in your car, and it also reduces the number of harmful emissions that your car emits.
So, it should come as no surprise that when the muffler starts to fail, it can lead to problems with the overall function of the car. In this article, you will be guided through how to spot issues with your car’s muffler and be shown how to know when it may need to be cleaned or when it may need to be replaced. Enjoy!
It’s Noisy!
Source: murfreesboroautorepair.com
OK, so there is no such thing as a silent car (yet), and when you are driving to work, chances are there will be some noise emitting from your car, which is usually the engine.
The exhaust on your car should not be making any more noise than a low hum, and if it is, this can be a sign that you need to replace the muffler. You need to remember that, as the name suggests, a muffler is designed to muffle the noise of the car. Ergo, if it is not able to do that, then there is a problem! It can lead to louder sounds, which, if left unchecked, may violate noise restrictions in some areas. It’s not great if you work in a hospital!
This level of noise can be caused by an exhaust leak, rust, or corrosion on the exhaust pipe. It can point to damaged or loose internal components or missing heat shields. If you aren’t sure of the cause, then it is best to check in with a mechanic before replacing the muffle. If you have identified the cause of the noisy muffler and need to seek a replacement, see here for more information. It is important to make sure that the noise coming from the muffler, even if it is damaged, is not caused by an obstruction in the pipe, as this can lead to more heat around the engine, which can cause engine failure or even combustion. So, get your muffler looked at quickly if it is humming louder than your radio!
Rattling
Source: sandgateautoelectrics.com.au
You may be wondering how a rattling muffler is different from a noisy one. Well, the decibels! A rattling muffler is usually a bit quieter, whereas a noisy one will have people turning heads as you drive down the road.
A rattling sound from the exhaust pipe is usually caused by internal damage to the muffler and is usually the result of some loose components. Loose components in a muffler may lead to the internal baffles deteriorating, which may lead to a more expensive repair. So, you need to get the muffler assessed and replaced as soon as you can if you hear rattling.
Problems with Fuel Efficiency
As mentioned before, your car’s muffler is a key part of the exhaust system. Therefore, when the muffler is not working as it should, it can cause the exhaust flow to slow, leading to back pressure. The outcome here is that you will have a decrease in your car’s fuel efficiency.
So, if you notice that you are seemingly forever going to buy gas or your fuel gauge is running low, then this can point to an issue with your muffler. Just make sure you have had your engine checked, too!
Excessive Smoke
air pollution crisis in city from diesel vehicle exhaust pipe on road
Most people have seen a car driving down the street at one time or another that seemed to be spewing out more smoke than it should be. If your car is emitting more smoke than usual from the exhaust, then it may be time to check the muffler, specifically if the smoke seems denser or darker. This could also point to a problem with the catalytic converter.
With a damaged muffler, the reasons for the excessive smoke could be linked to a range of issues. It may be that the damaged muffler is causing the engine to overwork, thereby upping the smoke and emissions. A damaged muffler or one that is on its last legs could also be causing a blockage, which may intermittently disperse, causing more emissions to come from the exhaust pipe.
The muffler also plays a role in the temperature control of the emissions that are released via the exhaust pipe. So, if it is damaged, you may expect to see thicker, darker, and hotter exhaust fumes. This can cause the back of your car to become stained and can also cause environmental issues.
Potent Exhaust Odors
Source: capristoautomotive.com.au
Along with controlling the temperature of the emissions, a muffler also seeks to prevent the gases released from the car from being overly potent.
If your muffler is failing, the people sitting in the back seat of the car may experience fumes from the exhaust pipe that are a bit strong. It’s worth noting here that these fumes are not only potent, but they are also harmful. Exhaust fumes are high in noxious gases, which can cause your guest passengers to have headaches, migraines, or even pass out. So, if you think your car smells a bit funky when you turn the engine on, then it is time to have your muffler looked at and potentially have it replaced.
Remember, it may be the case that there is an issue with another part of the car, but it is always wise to have your muffler checked when you notice any of these signs. Preventing having a muffler replaced or fitted can lead to more extensive and expensive issues with your vahicle engine.
