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Your muffler plays a key role in your car. If you have a muffler that's not working properly, it can cause an array of problems. For instance, a broken muffler can lead to exhaust back pressure which can cause damage to other components that affect the drivability of your vehicle.
You may be wondering, "How do I know if my muffler has gone bad?". There are some obvious (and not so obvious) signs. Let's take a look:
Your muffler makes loud sounds.
The most striking sign that your muffler needs replacing is if you hear any loud or strange noises coming from the backend of your car. One of the primary purposes of the muffler is to reduce the roaring sounds produced by your exhaust system. Cracks or perforations in the muffler are typically what cause it to become disruptive.
A bad smell is coming from your muffler.
Another warning symptom that your muffler needs to be swapped out is if you begin to smell a putrid stench coming from your car. If your damper isn't filtering the nasty fumes out of your exhaust, it could cause a build-up of the gases. If you smell any sort of foul odor, it's imperative to have a proper inspection from a professional.
Your gas mileage has drastically reduced.
The final sign that your muffler may need a replacement is if you notice your gas mileage worsening. A functioning muffler somewhat helps with gas efficiency. Therefore, a dip in efficiency could mean your muffler is troubled. Regardless of whether your sudden drop in fuel efficiency is due to your muffler or not, you should still have it checked out by a trusted technician. Otherwise, you could be wasting a lot of money.
Overall, these are three vital signs that indicate your muffler needs replacing. A muffler replacement is relatively economical and can help keep your car running for years to come. Please pay close attention to these warning signs to maintain the overall efficiency of your vehicle. For any exhaust repairs, please give us a call or visit Complete Car Care Encinitas today!