Exhaust System: Need A Muffler Replaced?
If your neighbors know when you're coming down the street because your muffler is making loud noises, you need your exhaust system inspected for holes, leaks, or other failing components. The muffler affects your vehicle in three basic ways:
- How loud your engine sounds;
- How well your vehicle performs; and
- How fuel efficient it is.
If it's time to replace your muffler, consider the type of exhaust system on your vehicle and the model you prefer.
Here are six tips that will guide you in replacing your vehicle's muffler correctly:
- Know Your Options. Because there are many different types of mufflers available on the market today, learn how they differ. Some are referred to as cancellation, absorption or diffusion models and are categorized according to the mechanism used to muffle the vehicle's exhaust and noise.
- Read your owner's manual. It will list the manufacturer's recommendation for the muffler that works best for the make, model and horsepower output of your vehicle. It also describes the warning signs of muffler malfunctions that you should watch for.
- Consult a qualified mechanic. An experienced mechanic can explain how certain mufflers will alter the sound and performance ability of your vehicle.
- Performance or gas mileage? Increasing the exhaust flow through the muffler improves the performance and speed of your vehicle. However, this makes your vehicle run louder and decreases fuel efficiency. You will need to decide which one asset is the most important--performance or gas mileage.
- Check the Warranty. Be sure to purchase a muffler that has a warranty to protect from malfunctions or damage. Some warranties include replacement trade-in options or discounts to make it less expensive to replace a worn-out muffler.
- Has the muffler professionally installed? Installation by an expert will cost more than doing it yourself, but it will ensure that the muffler is properly installed and prevent any damage to your vehicle.
Need an inspection of your exhaust system? Contact our ASE Certified Technicians at Clausen Automotive by calling (608) 221-8321 or go on-line at https://www.clausenautomotive.com for more information about mufflers. Since 1975, our family-owned auto shop has proudly served vehicle owners in Madison, WI, and the surrounding communities.
If your neighbors know when you're coming down the street because your muffler is making loud noises, you need your exhaust system inspected for holes, leaks, or other failing components. The muffler affects your vehicle in three basic ways:
- How loud your engine sounds;
- How well your vehicle performs; and
- How fuel efficient it is.
If it's time to replace your muffler, consider the type of exhaust system on your vehicle and the model you prefer.
Here are six tips that will guide you in replacing your vehicle's muffler correctly:
- Know Your Options. Because there are many different types of mufflers available on the market today, learn how they differ. Some are referred to as cancellation, absorption or diffusion models and are categorized according to the mechanism used to muffle the vehicle's exhaust and noise.
- Read your owner's manual. It will list the manufacturer's recommendation for the muffler that works best for the make, model and horsepower output of your vehicle. It also describes the warning signs of muffler malfunctions that you should watch for.
- Consult a qualified mechanic. An experienced mechanic can explain how certain mufflers will alter the sound and performance ability of your vehicle.
- Performance or gas mileage? Increasing the exhaust flow through the muffler improves the performance and speed of your vehicle. However, this makes your vehicle run louder and decreases fuel efficiency. You will need to decide which one asset is the most important--performance or gas mileage.
- Check the Warranty. Be sure to purchase a muffler that has a warranty to protect from malfunctions or damage. Some warranties include replacement trade-in options or discounts to make it less expensive to replace a worn-out muffler.
- Has the muffler professionally installed? Installation by an expert will cost more than doing it yourself, but it will ensure that the muffler is properly installed and prevent any damage to your vehicle.
Need an inspection of your exhaust system? Contact our ASE Certified Technicians at Clausen Automotive by calling (608) 221-8321 or go on-line at https://www.clausenautomotive.com for more information about mufflers. Since 1975, our family-owned auto shop has proudly served vehicle owners in Madison, WI, and the surrounding communities.
