What Are the Signs of a Bad Muffler?
Most experienced drivers are aware that mufflers and exhaust systems are related. However, if you’re a new driver, you may need to know that it is normal for your engine to produce toxic gases during the internal combustion process. These fumes flow through the exhaust system and are expelled from the muffler. Even though the condition of the exhaust system plays an important role in engine performance, it is often overlooked. As the old saying goes, “out of sight, out of mind” until some drivability problems occur.
So what are the signs of a bad muffler, you ask? Here are four major problems to be aware of:
- Excessively noisy engine – If any of the exhaust pipes or tubes break or crack, they can cause an exhaust leak that will result in an excessively noisy engine, becoming more pronounced during acceleration.
- Smell of fumes – If any of the pipes become damaged and leak, the exhaust fumes may find their way into the body of the car, giving off a smell of fuel and motor oil.
- Loss of performance – Damaged or corroded pipes in the exhaust system can produce an exhaust leak causing performance issues, such as a decrease in power, acceleration, and fuel efficiency due to the loss of backpressure.
- Dragging muffler – If the muffler or tailpipe is visible from the sides of the vehicle or if they are hanging down, they can be severely damaged if they contact the pavement or ground.
Even though exhaust systems are built to withstand the high stress and heat of the engine, just like any other component of your vehicle, they are prone to corrosion and rust. When a problem develops in the exhaust system and muffler, it is usually quite obvious—a noisy muffler and loss of engine performance.
Have more questions about what are the signs of a bad muffler? Contact our ASE-certified technicians today at Express Auto Service & Repair for more information about exhaust systems and to schedule an appointment. Our auto shop serves vehicle owners in Mankato, MN, and the neighboring communities of North Mankato, MN, New Ulm, MN, and St. Peter, MN.
Most experienced drivers are aware that mufflers and exhaust systems are related. However, if you’re a new driver, you may need to know that it is normal for your engine to produce toxic gases during the internal combustion process. These fumes flow through the exhaust system and are expelled from the muffler. Even though the condition of the exhaust system plays an important role in engine performance, it is often overlooked. As the old saying goes, “out of sight, out of mind” until some drivability problems occur.
So what are the signs of a bad muffler, you ask? Here are four major problems to be aware of:
- Excessively noisy engine – If any of the exhaust pipes or tubes break or crack, they can cause an exhaust leak that will result in an excessively noisy engine, becoming more pronounced during acceleration.
- Smell of fumes – If any of the pipes become damaged and leak, the exhaust fumes may find their way into the body of the car, giving off a smell of fuel and motor oil.
- Loss of performance – Damaged or corroded pipes in the exhaust system can produce an exhaust leak causing performance issues, such as a decrease in power, acceleration, and fuel efficiency due to the loss of backpressure.
- Dragging muffler – If the muffler or tailpipe is visible from the sides of the vehicle or if they are hanging down, they can be severely damaged if they contact the pavement or ground.
Even though exhaust systems are built to withstand the high stress and heat of the engine, just like any other component of your vehicle, they are prone to corrosion and rust. When a problem develops in the exhaust system and muffler, it is usually quite obvious—a noisy muffler and loss of engine performance.
Have more questions about what are the signs of a bad muffler? Contact our ASE-certified technicians today at Express Auto Service & Repair for more information about exhaust systems and to schedule an appointment. Our auto shop serves vehicle owners in Mankato, MN, and the neighboring communities of North Mankato, MN, New Ulm, MN, and St. Peter, MN.
