Usually, you can recognize someone driving with a damaged muffler by the loud noise the car generates. Yet, driving a noisy car is more than just an embarrassment. A broken muffler can leak toxic fumes into your car’s cabin. When you need to find the best muffler shop near me, choose Havoline® Xpress Lube of Kernersville.
What Does A Muffler Do?
Your car’s muffler is part of your vehicle’s exhaust system. Made up of several components, your exhaust system removes exhaust gas from the engine as quickly and efficiently as possible. In doing so, this system helps your engine generate power to move your vehicle.
However, in addition to producing toxic gas, the combustion engine creates a lot of noise. To deaden this noise, your exhaust system includes a muffler. Located near the end of the exhaust system, the muffler’s main function is to reduce noise. Yet, it also assists in removing exhaust gas safely out of your vehicle.
Signs You May Need A New Muffler
You’ll find your muffler at the rear, bottom of your vehicle. Located in this position, de-icing chemicals, and road debris can easily collect. If left alone, these contaminants can cause damage like rusting. Moreover, exposure to hot, high-pressure exhaust fumes can also cause the metal to crack.
Generally, a muffler will last between 5-7 years. However, failure to clean your undercarriage can result in premature aging. Nevertheless, you can often tell you need a new muffler by these signs:
- Loud noise
- Terrible Smell
- Misfiring in the engine
- Reduced fuel efficiency
- Visible rust, cracks, or holes
The most common symptom of a bad muffler is the horrible sound your car makes. Sometimes, a loud car noise is a sign other parts of your exhaust system may have become separated. More often, it’s simply time to replace your muffler.
Smelling exhaust in your car is another sign that your muffler may be going bad. Cracks or holes in your muffler can lead to toxic fumes leaking into your cabin or ventilation system. Breathing in these exhaust fumes may cause serious health issues and even cause death.
Additionally, holes or cracks in the muffler can upset the carefully designed airflow. This can cause misfiring as oxygen sensors may misread the balance of the air/fuel mixture. Moreover, with the airflow cycle disturbed, your car’s engine may run less efficiently.
Finally, make a visual inspection of your muffler. Look for rust, cracks, or holes. If you see any damage, it’s time to replace it.
The Best Way To Fix A Muffler
Stop in any auto retail store and you’ll find tapes, bandages, and kits to fix parts of your exhaust. Often, these solutions seem suitable since they have temperature-resistant epoxy and patches. However, repairing a muffler is usually a short-term solution. For example, patching over rust won’t stop the metal from further deterioration.
Moreover, a damaged muffler will be leaking exhaust fumes. Toxic exhaust fumes can travel from the engine through air vents poisoning you. Thus, any problems with your exhaust system, including the muffler, need a professional.
Protect Your Muffler By Washing Your Undercarriage Frequently
Not only should you be searching for the best muffler shop near me, you should also be aware of other ways to protect your muffler. Usually, manufacturers construct mufflers from stainless steel. While stainless steel is resistant to rust, it’s not immune. In fact, one of the most common causes of muffler damage is rust.
Unfortunately, as you drive, contaminants will accumulate on parts of your undercarriage. Located on the underside of your car, your exhaust system is susceptible to the accumulation of dirt and de-icing chemicals. A failure to remove these contaminants may begin the rusting process.
However, routinely cleaning your undercarriage will remove harmful contaminants from the underside of your car. Moreover, one of the easiest ways to clean your undercarriage is to bring it down to our car wash. Each one of our packages includes an undercarriage wash.
FAQs To Help You Find The Best Muffler Shop Near Me
We love to help consumers maintain their cars. To help you, we’ve answered some of our most commonly asked muffler questions. If you have others, call us at 336-993-7697 and we’ll be happy to answer them.
Will A New Muffler increase my gas mileage?
Possibly. A damaged muffler can’t work properly. Anytime any motor part isn’t working properly including the muffler, your engine can lose gas efficiency.
However, a muffler is only one part of your entire engine. A failure to perform any type of routine maintenance or repair can affect your fuel economy. Faulty oxygen sensors, low tire pressure, or a dirty air filter can all affect your gas efficiency.
Will My Car Pass Inspection With A Bad Muffler?
During an NC state car inspection, the technician will check your car’s exhaust system in addition to many other components. Any broken exhaust part, including the muffler, may cause your car to fail.
Do You Perform NC State Inspections?
Yes! We’re a full-service automotive maintenance and repair shop. Our technicians can perform over 30 common repairs:
Sorting through auto repair shops to find the best muffler shop near me doesn’t have to be a hassle. When you need complete auto care, trust Havoline® Xpress Lube of Kernersville. For over 25 years, we’ve been serving the local community with fast, friendly service. You’ll love our quality work and competitive prices.
Anytime you experience car issues, you should have a professional look at them right away. Book your appointment by using our easy online form.
