Does your car sound like a roaring lion coming down the street? Does it lose power when you are trying to accelerate? Have you seen the “check engine” light flashing on the dash panel? If any of these issues sound familiar, you are probably wondering just what are the symptoms of a bad muffler. Don’t put off scheduling an inspection of the exhaust system, including the muffler. There could be a leak in your vehicle’s exhaust system and damage could be occurring even though you can’t see it.
Depending on where and how you drive, mufflers should typically last about five to seven years, possibly longer if you drive with care. Because the muffler is mounted on the underside of your car, avoid driving on poor roads if you are able. Driving through potholes, going too fast over speed bumps, hitting obstacles in the road, bumpy gravel roads or constant exposure to salt (either from icy roads or ocean air) can all damage your muffler. If you have installed a custom exhaust, make sure it doesn’t exceed the capability of your vehicle.
So just what are the symptoms of a bad muffler? Watch for these warning signs:
- Misfiring Engine – Holes in the muffler can cause the engine to misfire, particularly when slowing down.
- Lower Miles Per Gallon – Having to fill up the gas tank more often than usual could mean there is a problem with the exhaust system.
- Noisy Muffler – A damaged muffler is a noisy muffler.
- Obnoxious odor – If toxic fumes are entering your car, it not only smells bad but also creates a dangerous situation.
- Condensation – Condensation that has not evaporated as the exhaust system cools down, can eventually rust out the exhaust pipe and muffler, leaking fumes and noise.
Ask your mechanic to inspect your exhaust system at every oil change so that any damage or problems can be detected early. Neglecting recommended maintenance allows a problem to get bigger, more costly to repair, and compromise the safety of your vehicle.
Need to know more about what are the symptoms of a bad muffler? Contact our ASE Certified Technicians at Puleo’s Auto Clinic for more information about replacing automotive shocks and struts and to schedule an appointment. Our auto shop serves vehicle owners in Washington, NJ, and the surrounding areas.
Does your car sound like a roaring lion coming down the street? Does it lose power when you are trying to accelerate? Have you seen the “check engine” light flashing on the dash panel? If any of these issues sound familiar, you are probably wondering just what are the symptoms of a bad muffler. Don’t put off scheduling an inspection of the exhaust system, including the muffler. There could be a leak in your vehicle’s exhaust system and damage could be occurring even though you can’t see it.
Depending on where and how you drive, mufflers should typically last about five to seven years, possibly longer if you drive with care. Because the muffler is mounted on the underside of your car, avoid driving on poor roads if you are able. Driving through potholes, going too fast over speed bumps, hitting obstacles in the road, bumpy gravel roads or constant exposure to salt (either from icy roads or ocean air) can all damage your muffler. If you have installed a custom exhaust, make sure it doesn’t exceed the capability of your vehicle.
So just what are the symptoms of a bad muffler? Watch for these warning signs:
- Misfiring Engine – Holes in the muffler can cause the engine to misfire, particularly when slowing down.
- Lower Miles Per Gallon – Having to fill up the gas tank more often than usual could mean there is a problem with the exhaust system.
- Noisy Muffler – A damaged muffler is a noisy muffler.
- Obnoxious odor – If toxic fumes are entering your car, it not only smells bad but also creates a dangerous situation.
- Condensation – Condensation that has not evaporated as the exhaust system cools down, can eventually rust out the exhaust pipe and muffler, leaking fumes and noise.
Ask your mechanic to inspect your exhaust system at every oil change so that any damage or problems can be detected early. Neglecting recommended maintenance allows a problem to get bigger, more costly to repair, and compromise the safety of your vehicle.
Need to know more about what are the symptoms of a bad muffler? Contact our ASE Certified Technicians at Puleo’s Auto Clinic for more information about replacing automotive shocks and struts and to schedule an appointment. Our auto shop serves vehicle owners in Washington, NJ, and the surrounding areas.
