ABOUT USED MUFFLERS

WHAT IS THE MUFFLER?

The muffler is the part of a vehicle that is used to reduce the amount of noise that comes out of the exhaust of an internal combustion engine.

WHAT DOES THE PART DO?

The muffler reduces the noise coming from the internal combustion engine by redirecting gases and reducing exhaust pressure. By redirecting sound waves within tubes, channels and holes inside of the muffler, it both reduces the sounds and creates new sounds that cancel each other out, reducing the amount of sound emitted from the vehicle.

WHAT DOES THE PART LOOK LIKE?

A muffler is an oblong cylinder that is usually made of stainless steel. A muffler will have one tube coming out of the top and one tube coming out of the bottom end of the part.

WHERE IS THERE PART TYPICALLY LOCATED ON THE VEHICLE?

The muffler is located at the end of a vehicle’s exhaust system.

WHAT DO YOU LOOK FOR IN A USED MUFFLER?

You will want to make sure that the exterior casing of the muffler is free of any cracks and brakes. Also be sure that there is no scorching from the end of the muffler pipe. Finally, make sure that the muffler is free of rust.

WHAT ELSE SHOULD I KNOW ABOUT A MUFFLER BEFORE I PURCHASE ONE?

There are three main muffler types: chambered, turbo and straight-through. Each type of muffler creates its own unique sound.

WHAT OTHER PARTS ARE CONNECTED OR THAT I MAY NEED FOR THIS PART?

A muffler is connected to the tailpipe at the rear and the exhaust pipe at the front. The muffler is part of the vehicle’s exhaust system.

WHAT SIGNS OF WEAR SHOULD I LOOK AT WHEN BUYING A USED MUFFLER?

Be sure to look for rust. A rusty muffler is likely to degrade quicker. Also check for scorching around the ends of the muffler’s pipes.

WHAT IS THE AVERAGE LIFESPAN OF A MUFFLER?

A muffler will typically last anywhere from five to seven years. However, there are some factors that can lead to premature aging in a muffler. These factors can include salt on roads, speed bumps, and potholes.

WHEN SHOULD THE PART BE REPLACED?

A muffler should be replaced after five to seven years of use. Also a muffler should be replaced if it shows signs of degrading performance. For instance, if you notice that your vehicle is louder than usual, then the muffler is not doing its job. Also, if the muffler has rust of dents, then it should be replaced right away.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT MUFFLERS

IS IT SAFE TO DRIVE WITH A LOUD MUFFLER?

Driving with a loud muffler can be dangerous. That’s because a loud muffler is a sign that the part may have a hole, rust or some other defect.

CAN YOU DRIVE A CAR WITHOUT A MUFFLER?

While it is possible to drive a vehicle with a muffler, it is not recommended due to the amount of noise that will come from the vehicle.

DOES A BROKEN MUFFLER AFFECT GAS MILEAGE?

A damaged or a loose muffler can adversely affect your vehicle’s gas mileage. Therefore, it is recommended to not drive with a muffler with any holes, rust or damage.

CAN I REPLACE A CAR MUFFLER MYSELF?

It is possible to replace a car muffler yourself. To get the job done, you will need the following tools and equipment: A jack, a wrench, different sized ratchets, lubricant and possibly a hacksaw.

CAN I FIT ANY MUFFLER ON MY CAR?

If you can get one inch of clearance between the muffler and your car, then you should be able to make any compatible muffler fit on your vehicle.