Do You Find the Exhaust System of Your Car Annoying? 3 Signs It's Time to Replace the Muffler

The muffler reduces and redirects noise from the exhaust system of your car and also filters the exhaust gases from the car engine. Although the emission control system of your car is integrated into the catalytic converter, the condition of the muffler determines how the entire exhaust system functions. The muffler can last for about five to seven years, but you may replace it earlier if your car is frequently exposed to potholes, speed bumps and salt on the roads. See how you know it's time to replace your car's muffler:

Trust Your Nose

Does the car's odour offend you? Muffler failure could be the main culprit for this problem. As an integral part of your car's exhaust system, the muffler filters harmful fumes and exhaust gases out of your vehicle. A persistent unpleasant odour in your car indicates that your car's exhaust system is faulty. The gasoline-smelling air in your car affirms that the car's exhaust and fuel injection systems are faulty. If you don't replace the damaged or congested muffler in good time, the fuel sensors get affected. Thus, the fuel injectors could send more fuel to the engine, increasing the fuel consumption rate.

Deteriorated Physical Condition

Examine the physical condition of the muffler to see if you could see any damage signs. Lift your car with a car jack and inspect every part of the muffler thoroughly. If you see rust or holes on the muffler, then it's time to replace it. If you see a lot of rust on the outer part of the muffler, then its inner section has extensive damage. Air moisture usually condenses inside the exhaust pipes once the exhaust system of the car cools down. The liquid then corrodes the muffler's seams and exhaust pipes over time, causing loud noises and exhaust leaks. You know rust has caused holes on the muffler if it drips from different locations.

Unusual Sounds

Your car will make some strange sounds if the muffler develops a problem. If your car is louder than you are used to, then the muffler could be damaged or broken. Most mufflers are made of several chambers that help minimise vibrations in the exhaust system. If the muffler is faulty, the pre-muffled exhaust pipe begins to leak, and it also produces rattling, clunking or thumping sounds. You should replace the defective muffler, especially if it's illegal to drive with a faulty muffler or even modify it to make the vehicle louder in your state.

Regular car checks and maintenance ensure the muffler is always in good shape. They also help detect the issues the muffler develops early and replace it in good time. Repair shops that offer routine maintenance on mufflers will help you know what you can do to prolong the lifespan of your muffler. Look for a professional who works with mufflers to learn more. 

Share