4 Signs You May Need To Replace Your Muffler

You may not think of your muffler often, but it's critical to keeping your car comfortable and safe. The muffler gets its name because it muffles the sound the engine produces. But it does more than just reduce noise. The muffler, which is the last part of the exhaust system, funnels exhaust gases out of your car, protecting you and your passengers from these potentially dangerous fumes and reducing the emissions your car releases into the atmosphere.

Most mufflers last five to seven years. Once your muffler begins to fail, you'll notice signs, including a noisier ride, bad smells and reduced fuel economy. Here are four telltale signs that your muffler is failing, and how much you can expect to pay for a new one.

The most noticeable sign of muffler problems is the sound: Suddenly, your exhaust sounds louder than normal. Unfortunately, this increase in engine sound usually means your muffler or exhaust system has a hole in it or has come loose. Either way, it requires immediate repair or replacement at a muffler shop.

There are a few different types of muffler-related noises. Knowing the difference can help you diagnose the problem.

• Increased engine noise often indicates a hole or crack in the muffler.
• Rattling or vibration can mean that the muffler is loose.
• Bouncing, or the sound of a pebble in a can, may indicate that the insulation inside the muffler has come loose and needs repair.
• Engine backfiring, which sounds like a large pop, is another sign of muffler troubles.

If left untreated, damage could spread to other parts of the exhaust system, creating a much larger problem. There's even a chance you could get ticketed for excessive noise! A rise in engine sound is the last loud gasp of a muffler telling you to fix it.

Your ears are often the first organ to tell you that your muffler is failing, but sometimes, your nose knows. When the muffler begins to fail, you might notice more fumes coming out of your car. Sometimes, the fumes can even come into the cabin (which is very dangerous and should be dealt with immediately).

Don't be tempted to roll down your windows and get on with your day. Excessive muffler fumes are harmful to people and the environment. So if you notice a change in how your car smells, head to the mechanic.

Unlike a sudden increase in engine noise, checking for puddles of condensation and rust are straightforward ways to detect muffler problems before they turn into major issues.

It's normal to see a few drops of water coming out of your car's exhaust pipe when you start it up; this water is a byproduct of the muffler heating and cooling. But rust can form when some of this accumulated water doesn't drain out. A steady stream of water coming from the exhaust or a rust-colored puddle under your muffler can be a sign of rust buildup inside the muffler. In that case, see a mechanic soon.

Rust can also form on the exterior of your muffler, especially if the muffler is exposed to large amounts of salt during the winter. If you're able to look underneath your car, a quick visual exam could clue you into possible rust buildup. A preventive undercarriage wash can greatly reduce the chances of rust forming and possibly help you avoid a muffler repair.

Learn more: What is Undercoating for Cars?

Your car's muffler doesn't just dampen the sound of the engine; it's an integral part of the exhaust system and is linked to your car's overall performance. The faster the exhaust moves through the exhaust system, the quicker the engine can burn more fuel, leading to better engine performance.

If your car is running hot, your muffler may be the culprit. When rust builds up inside the muffler, it can damage its internal chambers and exhaust won't flow properly. Over time, this could decrease fuel economy, as your car's engine is working harder to expel exhaust and burn fuel—not to mention that a constantly overheating engine can damage other parts of your vehicle over time.

Learn more: 5 Road Trip Tips To Save Money on Gas

A new muffler costs between $175 and $450 or more. If you have one installed by a mechanic, you'll need to shell out for parts and labor. Here's what you can expect to pay:

• Parts: An original muffler from the manufacturer can cost $1,000, but an aftermarket part will cost about $50 to $400.
• Labor: You'll need to pay for labor, which may cost between $50 and $200.

While preventive maintenance and the occasional patch job can keep your car's muffler going, the simple truth is that replacement is the better option when your muffler wears out. You may have one hole in your muffler patched, only for another to open up six months later. However, if your muffler is in fairly good condition but damaged by a curb or debris in the road, a repair may work. It's best to talk with a trusted mechanic about the best option for you.

While muffler issues can come on quickly—especially if they're caused by debris in the road—you need to take care of them quickly, too. The Synchrony Car Care credit card can help you pay for car repairs promptly, keeping you on the road and where you need to be. Apply now.

Learn more: 10 Questions To Ask Your Mechanic