4 Signs Your Car Muffler Is Having Problems
The muffler is the back part of the car exhaust system. The name originates from the fact that the muffler muffles the sound that comes from your vehicle's exhaust system. If there is something wrong with your muffler, you will need to get it replaced as soon as possible. Otherwise, it could start doing damage to other parts of the vehicle's exhaust system. The question is, how do you know your muffler isn't working properly?
1. Loud Exhaust
Without a properly working muffler, the exhaust of a vehicle is a loud and deep rumble. Unfortunately, this problem is easy to overlook if you are someone who enjoys driving with their radio turned up. If you have a loud exhaust system, it is possible you also have an exhaust leak. You may also hear hissing, chugging, or rattling. These sounds suggest the muffler is struggling to function.
2. Cracks or Holes Forming
Another sign people find after the noise is a crack or a hole somewhere within the muffler or exhaust pipe. This is where other exhaust fumes are exiting from, so cracks and holes in it can create strange noises. Most of the cracks or holes will appear between the seams, but you may get them within the muffler itself.
This can happen due to degrading because of salt on the roads. Another common problem is acidic compounds getting through the exhaust system, causing corrosion to the metal.
3. Vibration in Your Car
Some muffler problems can lead to the vibrations you feel inside your car. The driver will often experience these feelings from the pedal as they accelerate. The vibration can also be in the steering wheel and is usually a sign that there is a leak somewhere.
This sign will appear when there is a leak anywhere in the exhaust system, so replacing the muffler may not be enough to make the problem go away.
4. Lower Fuel Efficiency
What is your fuel efficiency like? A problem with the muffler can affect the amount of fuel your car burns through. This could be a sign the exhaust system is leaking. Exhaust leaks commonly occur at the muffler or within one of the joint sections. The muffler is easier to check than a joint section, as with a muffler you'll likely see a clear corroded hole in the metal.
When you notice any of the above signs, your muffler may need replacing. Once you confirm you need a new muffler, you can usually find a used one that has been salvaged from another vehicle. Purchasing the part used will be much less expensive, so check into getting cheap car parts before buying a new muffler.