Muffler
Your car muffler is responsible for reducing the amount of noise that comes out of the engine cylinders during the internal combustion process. This is why when there is an issue with your muffler, you will most definitely hear it. It is a crucial component within your car’s exhaust system, even though it operates independently of the other exhaust components.
How does a car muffler work?
The muffler is located along the exhaust pipe path, past the catalytic converter but before the exhaust outlet. There are a few different types of design strategy that a muffler can utilize to reduce noise: absorptive, reactive, or a combination of both.
Absorptive design structure relies on sound-absorbing materials which are placed around the perimeter of the muffler. This type of muffler design tends to be less restrictive on the exhaust flow, making them preferred by performance vehicle owners.
Reactive design structure uses a complex series of chambers, perforated tubes, and resonators to “react” to the sound waves produced by the engine. As a result, the sound waves lose their energy after entering the muffler and thus become quieter. Some heat is produced by this process, which gets dissipated along the metal casing of the muffler.
Many aftermarket parts will use a combination of the two design structures to control the sound of the exhaust and deliver what some may consider to be a pleasing exhaust sound.
Signs of a bad muffler
Your muffler should be replaced every 5-7 years, however it may need to be replaced sooner if it gets damaged enough. Since your muffler is constantly exposed to high heat and pressure, it is susceptible to cracks, holes, and rust. Below are the signs to watch for to know if your muffler is going bad:
- Car sounds louder – Of course, since the purpose of your muffler is to dampen any engine noise, you will notice your car sounding louder when the muffler goes bad. A sudden increase and loudness can be indicative of a number of different issues with the exhaust system, including leaks. Be sure to have your entire exhaust system inspected by a car care professional before concluding that you have a muffler problem.
- Engine misfire – An internally damaged muffler can cause poor engine performance and misfires without your car getting louder as a whole.
- Drop in fuel economy – A damaged or loose muffler can result in poor fuel economy.
- Rattling noise from underneath car – The rattling noise could be coming from your muffler coming loose or a component within the muffler becoming unsecured.
- Bad odor inside your vehicle – This is an especially dangerous sign that your muffler needs replacement. Exhaust fumes can be lethal so you definitely want to avoid having them enter your car.
Muffler maintenance
As exhaust systems are difficult to work on since they are located underneath the vehicle, you should leave all muffler maintenance to your car care professional. When you notice any of the above signs, it’s a good idea to get your entire exhaust system inspected and serviced by an automotive technician. Minor damage done to your muffler can often be inexpensively fixed with a patch kit, while major and more sustained damage will require a muffler replacement.
The best way to get maintenance done on your car muffler is to book your appointment through CarAdvise. CarAdvise makes car care simple and guarantees that you will pay less than retail shop price on all auto maintenance services.
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