Exhaust Systems and Muffler: Silent Partners!
The exhaust systems should be working quietly inside your vehicle without any thought from you. It is vital for the operating efficiency of your vehicle, releasing the toxic gas by-products of internal combustion. It is only when strange noises, odors, or smoke starts coming from the muffler that the exhaust systems get any attention. Unfortunately, by the time this happens, the damage has more than likely already occurred, and some form of repair will be required.
There are two common causes of damage (in addition to the normal aging process) to the exhaust systems and muffler:
- Exposure to road conditions: Because the muffler is mounted on the underside of your vehicle, it is exposed to damaging road conditions (such as salt or sand). If the muffler is getting noisy, have the exhaust systems inspected for leaks. A leaky exhaust system creates a noisy muffler, decreases fuel efficiency, and even more harmful, the toxic fumes, such as carbon monoxide, can enter the cabin of your car.
- Driving short distances: Rust and corrosion occur in muffler from continuously driving short distances, such as your daily commute. The water vapor produced by the catalytic converter doesn't have enough time to fully evaporate or get expelled, condensing back into the water causing the muffler to rust. Sulfur, a byproduct of engine emissions, when mixed with the water produces a corrosive acid that eats away at the muffler.
Tip to Remember: Have your vehicle's exhaust systems inspected at each oil change. This will ensure you can take care of any problems as soon as possible. This will prevent damage to the muffler, and protect the environment and your health.
What is your muffler telling you? Contact our ASE Certified Technicians at Clausen Automotive by calling (608) 221-8321 for more information about the exhaust systems. Since 1975, our family-owned auto shop has proudly served vehicle owners in Madison, WI, and the surrounding communities.
The exhaust systems should be working quietly inside your vehicle without any thought from you. It is vital for the operating efficiency of your vehicle, releasing the toxic gas by-products of internal combustion. It is only when strange noises, odors, or smoke starts coming from the muffler that the exhaust systems get any attention. Unfortunately, by the time this happens, the damage has more than likely already occurred, and some form of repair will be required.
There are two common causes of damage (in addition to the normal aging process) to the exhaust systems and muffler:
- Exposure to road conditions: Because the muffler is mounted on the underside of your vehicle, it is exposed to damaging road conditions (such as salt or sand). If the muffler is getting noisy, have the exhaust systems inspected for leaks. A leaky exhaust system creates a noisy muffler, decreases fuel efficiency, and even more harmful, the toxic fumes, such as carbon monoxide, can enter the cabin of your car.
- Driving short distances: Rust and corrosion occur in muffler from continuously driving short distances, such as your daily commute. The water vapor produced by the catalytic converter doesn't have enough time to fully evaporate or get expelled, condensing back into the water causing the muffler to rust. Sulfur, a byproduct of engine emissions, when mixed with the water produces a corrosive acid that eats away at the muffler.
Tip to Remember: Have your vehicle's exhaust systems inspected at each oil change. This will ensure you can take care of any problems as soon as possible. This will prevent damage to the muffler, and protect the environment and your health.
What is your muffler telling you? Contact our ASE Certified Technicians at Clausen Automotive by calling (608) 221-8321 for more information about the exhaust systems. Since 1975, our family-owned auto shop has proudly served vehicle owners in Madison, WI, and the surrounding communities.
