Types of Muffler Damage
Muffler Repair in Logan, UT
The Exhaust System
Your traditional automobile that’s powered by an internal combustion gasoline or diesel engine is equipped with an exhaust system. It’s designed to channel fumes away from the engine and passenger cabin, protect the environment, and reduce the noise of engine operation. Key components include oxygen sensors, pipes, catalytic converters, and mufflers. Should you recognize one of the types of potential damage, count on Transportation Repair in Logan, Utah, for muffler repair. Our ASE-certified technicians are committed to providing exceptional mechanical care in an environment where you’re treated as well as our own families.
More about the Muffler
Since your car’s engine works using a series of small, controlled explosions and has many moving parts, it obviously produces noise as it operates. While this can’t be avoided altogether, the muffler functions as a noise canceler. When the pressurized exhaust gases and sound waves reach the muffler, they go through chambers and channels. The sound waves bounce and collide, counteracting one another to reduce noise in a manner similar to an acoustic silencer. Depending upon the vehicle and design, the result can be a very quiet hum in a high-end sedan to a respectable, yet tolerable rumble in a sporty performance model. Mufflers can actually be engineered to create the desired sound. Also, manufacturers are intentional about the sound absorbent materials they use as these help take care of noise. As part of the exhaust, the muffler helps move gases toward the tailpipe to keep it out of the passenger area and away from the engine to improve performance.
Types of Muffler Damage
Like any mechanical component, your car’s muffler can sustain damage. Signs of a muffler problem include a reduction in fuel economy, noisy operation that is worse when you accelerate, the presence of strong fumes, noticeable rust on visible surfaces, and moisture dripping from the tailpipe. If you’re seeing rust, your system clearly has corrosion damage. This can happen because of a normal reaction of the steel outer wall to water and is often exacerbated with exposure to salt or brine solutions used on roads when winter weather is expected. Hitting rocks, speed bumps, or other surface irregularities can dent or crack the muffler. This is a particular problem for automobiles with low-hanging mufflers/exhausts. The muffler is held in place by hangers and mounts. If these break, the component shifts to a lower position. It is then at greater risk for damage due to flying debris or direct contact with bumps and hazards. It may also be dislodged from its connection to other exhaust components. If the muffler is completely breached by external damage, your car will become noticeably louder. In addition to exterior damage, your muffler can suffer from internal problems. Broken pieces inside may rattle, especially when you let the engine idle or when you’re accelerating. A blockage inside prevents adequate airflow, increasing fuel consumption, and reducing engine performance. At the first sign of damage, bring your vehicle to Transportation Repair for muffler repair.