Exhaust Muffler Replacement
What is a muffler?
The muffler is the last step for exhaust gas on the way out of the exhaust system. Mufflers reduce the noise created by exhaust gases emitted from the engine to make sure the vehicle drives quietly.
How does the muffler work?
The muffler uses several sound deadening chambers that absorb vibrations as the exhaust gas passes through this forced maze. After passing through multiple chambers and baffles, the exhaust noise is quieted down to the designed level.
What are the symptoms related to a bad muffler?
When the muffler has become sufficiently corroded it will no longer muffle the exhaust noise properly. The muffler brackets or rubber hangers can also break, allowing it to swing underneath the vehicle and hit the undercarriage. Some high end vehicles have vacuum or electronically actuated flaps that adjust the noise level, and when faulty can cause rattling noises from the tailpipe, or excess noise when the flaps are stuck open. In the rare case the muffler is clogged, they engine may fail to start, stall, or run roughly due to excess back-pressure.
Can I drive with a muffler problem?
Driving a vehicle with a hole in the muffler will generally not cause any harm. The engine will not record any data concerning the muffler, because the oxygen sensor is located before the resonator and muffler. If the muffler is clogged, the vehicle will most likely not be able to start, or stay running.
How often do mufflers need to be replaced?
The number one cause of muffler failure is corrosion from road salt or other debris. Collisions can also damage mufflers when the vehicle is rear ended. There is no recommended replacement interval for mufflers, and they often last the life of the vehicle.