Does your vehicle produce loud noises when you accelerate? Do you feel like everyone is turning to look at you when you hit the gas? Whether it’s chugging, hissing, or muffling noises, this is a sign of a problem that requires fixing.
If your car makes a noise you’re not accustomed to, in most cases, the culprits are one of the many parts of an engine and exhaust system. A muffler is one of them.
If you’re sure the origin of this unexpected sound is the muffler, then worry not because we at Performance Muffler have a solution for you.
WHAT IS A MUFFLER?
Wondering what does a muffler do? The muffler is found under your car’s rear and is installed onto your car’s exhaust pipe. The muffler helps to minimize the amount of noise released by your engine. It also regulates your engine’s backpressure and, in the long run, enhances your engine’s stamina and efficiency.
COMMON MUFFLER PROBLEMS
A well-maintained muffler is very important to your car. It helps you avoid extra damages to your engine and exhaust system.
The following are some of the possible causes of muffler noise while accelerating:
- Loose Parts
A common cause for muffler noise is loose exhaust system components. Items close to your car’s exhaust pipe, such as exhaust connectors, exhaust rubber hanger, or loose exhaust bracket, could come into contact with the muffler by accident, causing that rattling noise in the muffler, especially when you accelerate.
Similarly, if your vehicle hits a hole or if the material is kicked up from below the car, the muffler is likely to break. If this happens to your muffler, you may have to replace it entirely with a new piece.
- Rust
Mufflers rust over time as a result of the moisture that accumulates within the exhaust system. The moisture retains particles of mud or dust. These particles are flung up onto the bottom of your vehicle as you drive on the road. Because the exhaust system does not get hot enough to burn off the water, it condenses and rusts.
SIGNS YOU HAVE A MUFFLER PROBLEM
Here are some ways you can tell that your muffler is broken:
- Sudden Noise
Noise is the most obvious indicator of a faulty muffler, so keep an ear out for any unusual noises. When your car sounds much louder than it previously did, you are likely to have a damaged muffler on your hands.
- Reduced Fuel Economy
If you find yourself having to refuel more often, this could signify a problem with the exhaust system/muffler. A properly tuned engine exhaust system has enhanced fuel efficiency and gas mileage.
Other ways you can use to tell whether your muffler is broken include:
- Inspect the area for water.
Look for any evidence of water droplets trickling from your muffler. A little moisture should be expected. However, if you have water dripping from multiple sites on the muffler, you may want it to be looked at by a professional.
- Foul Smells
The muffler works to direct fumes away from your vehicle; any problem on your muffler means that the fumes could be leaking into your car. Exhaust gases can be dangerous if allowed to accumulate, so if you notice any peculiar odors, seek assistance immediately.
WHAT TO DO
Fortunately, you can change parts of your exhaust system without having to replace your entire muffler or exhaust system. The smart option is to have your mechanic check your exhaust system as part of routine auto maintenance. This can save you hundreds of dollars.
If you detect unusual noises and odors, or a change in gas mileage, always have a specialist look it over. Our trained experts at Performance Muffler know how to inspect your car exhaust system properly and what to look for. We can identify problems early on to avoid larger and costly ones later on.
GET A QUOTE TODAY
If you need exhaust repair, engage a reliable auto shop. Luckily, we are the best in the business, and Performance Mufflers is the place to go for exhaust repair in Phoenix, AZ. Contact us to request a quote today! We’re happy to help.