As part of your vehicle’s exhaust system, its main purpose is to reduce the noise generated by the exhaust. If you’re on the road and hear an incredibly loud vehicle driving by, chances are they need a new muffler. To help you keep your vehicle in the best possible condition, here are some signs you can tell if your muffler is bad.
Loud Noises
The biggest sign that something is wrong with your muffler is the sound. If your car is constantly roaring down the road no matter how fast or slow you’re going, pay attention to it before calling a professional. It’s not a sign that you can easily ignore because of the sheer volume of the sound.
Check for Water
If you suspect there is a problem with your muffler, do a routine inspection. Are you seeing any signs of water leaks? While condensation is nothing to worry about, detecting water leaks coming from many different places is definitely an issue.
Corrosion or Leakage
When completing your visual inspection, you should also pay attention to other potential issues. Depending on the height of your vehicle, you will probably need to jack it up to get a proper view. After inspecting the muffler, look for any signs of damage, corrosion, or leaks. Wear and tear are normal, but if you notice anything unusual, have a professional assess it.
High Car Temperature
Is your car running hotter than usual, especially if it’s only been running for short periods of time? If so, this is a sign of overheating that is happening to your muffler. Since this is an issue that can negatively affect other connected components, you need to have it checked as soon as possible to protect the rest of your vehicle.
Strange Smell
The one thing you should never smell while driving or sitting at a red light is smoke coming out of your vehicle. This means that there is a hole somewhere in the muffler or there is a leak in the exhaust system itself. Because your car produces carbon monoxide, it can be incredibly dangerous, especially in an enclosed space. This can quickly become toxic and can be fatal, so if you smell smoke in your car, take it to a mechanic immediately.
Inefficient Gas Mileage
A failing exhaust system and muffler can have severe negative effects when it comes to the efficiency of your vehicle. If you find that you’re getting gas more often than normal, it could be a sign that your car is burning through fuel too fast. It is best that you get a professional to look at your muffler as soon as possible.
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