What Are the Signs of a Bad Muffler?

Many drivers want to keep their vehicles running at the highest performance level potential.  This means that all car maintenance items should be kept up-to-date, including the muffler and exhaust system.  Today’s newer vehicles have a computer sensor that monitors fuel economy and overall performance, pinpointing an issue before it gets serious.  The exhaust system is most effective when it is operating quietly in the background.  Inappropriately, this means it is often “out of sight; out of mind” until an issue starts to develop.  

What are the signs of a bad muffler?  When mufflers become worn out, they are unable to effectively "muffler" the sound of the vehicle's exhaust.  Mufflers normally last 5 to 7 years, but they can become worn out prematurely due to some problems.  Here are 3 common issues that you will notice:

1. Noisy Muffler – A good exhaust system should keep your car running quietly and not sound like a roaring lion.
2. Decreased fuel mileage – If your fuel efficiency has decreased and you find yourself filling the tank more often than normal, have the exhaust system checked out.    
3. Obnoxious odor – Toxic emissions should be directed outside and away from your vehicle through the muffler.  If you smell exhaust fumes inside your car, there is a leak or some other issue that wants to be checked out. 

How does a muffler gets damaged, you wonder?  There are some causes of issues that could develop in exhaust systems, some of them unavoidable:

• Exposed to the salt used on icy and snowy roads, or the ocean.
• Driving too fast over speed bumps, low clearance potholes, or other objects in the road
• Excessive use or custom fabrication not recommended by the manufacturer.
• Condensation from the exhaust pipes rusting out the seams of the muffler so starts to leak exhaust gases and noise.

Do you want to know more about what are the signs of a bad muffler?  Consult our ASE Certified Technicians at Rum River Automotive for more information about mufflers and exhaust systems and to make an appointment.  Since 1997, our auto repair shop has served vehicle owners in Princeton, MN, and in the surrounding areas of Milaca, MN, and Zimmerman, MN.