Chapter 7

Mufflers and Exhaust

By its very design an exhaust system's job is to reduce engine noise. As such, the system will likely let you know if there is a problem. An exhaust system related sound would generally continue while your vehicle is idling, although it will get louder as you start to accelerate.

If your vehicle is choking or chugging then you probably have a blockage in your exhaust system, which can be caused by a clogged catalytic converter or a bent pipe. Rattling noises can be caused by a damaged and internally broken up catalytic converter. Rattling can also be caused by a misaligned exhaust system that is rubbing against another part of the vehicle, or by a loose internal part of the muffler, such as a baffle.

A steady pulsing noise is likely a hole somewhere in the system. A metallic sounding vibration is probably a loose hangar or something touching the system.

Your dealer or local repairer can repair or replace your exhaust system for you, but we think it generally makes sense to use one of the specialty shop chains for this item as they are often faster and cheaper. However, be careful as to what is covered by the specialty shop's warranty. Generally only the muffler gets the lifetime guarantee that the shops publicize. Other exhaust system components, such as the pipes, generally are only covered for a specified time. Warning, in the case of the specialty shop chains that guarantee the muffler for life at any of their shops, generally they only cover other components at the shop which installed them.