Hear, Hear: Signs That Your Muffler is Bad

Most modern vehicles are so complicated that you need to consult the owner’s manual just to be able to turn on the stereo. Your vehicle’s muffler, though, is still pretty simple, even though it plays a vital role in the vehicle’s exhaust system. When a muffler goes bad, you not only may hear funny noises issuing forth from the back of your vehicle, but you may also be exposed to harmful exhaust gases. Consider these signs that your muffler may need replacing.

Certain noises may be your first clues that you need a new muffler. Unless you drive a muscle car with a muffler that gives off a perpetual growling sound, an exhaust system in good repair is usually fairly quiet. If you notice that your muffler is louder than it has been in the past, such a noise could signal that your muffler has a hole. A damaged muffler not only increases the decibel level of your vehicle, but it also may allow potentially harmful fumes, including carbon monoxide. Additionally, many municipalities have noise ordinances, and a noisy muffler might get you a large fine.

Other noises, perhaps not so obvious, also may signal that your muffler is bad. A rattling noise that you have not heard before can be a sign of a potentially serious problem. Such a sound may mean that your vehicle’s exhaust system is misaligned or loose, and you certainly do not want part of your exhaust system to fall off while you and every driver around you are driving at speeds of 70 miles per hour on a busy highway. Rattles need to be checked out by a qualified mechanic or exhaust specialist right away.

Likewise, unusual ticking noises can signal that a muffler may need to be replaced. Now, a ticking sound coming from underneath your vehicle is normal, especially when you park it after driving for awhile, because hot metal components of the exhaust system make a kind of ticking noise as they cool down. However, if you hear a new or different ticking sound that you have never heard before, the new noise could signal a problem in your vehicle’s exhaust system such as a loose exhaust manifold.

These are the major audible symptoms that your vehicle’s muffler may need to be replaced, and they should be checked by an exhaust system specialist. For more information from a muffler repair shop in La Jolla, visit this website.