If your vehicle’s muffler is so loud that you can’t hear the radio playing or your baby crying in the back seat while driving, you need to be aware of the signs of muffler problems. A loud muffler is a big sign that your vehicle's exhaust system is in need of help. The best place to get that help is a professional auto repair mechanic.

Here are 3 of the biggest warning signs of muffler problems:

  1. Loud noises: The most obvious sign is a drastic change in the volume of your muffler. When working properly, the muffler should operate quietly in the background. When something goes wrong, it becomes a roaring monster. 
  2. Decreased fuel economy: A well-tuned exhaust system will get better gas mileage. Pay attention to how often you fill up the tank. More trips than usual to the pump could mean your vehicle has a problem. Newer vehicles have a computer sensor that helps monitor fuel economy and overall performance and catch a problem before it becomes serious. 
  3. Bad smells: One of the biggest signs of a faulty exhaust system is a bad smell. When working properly, your muffler funnels exhaust fumes outside and away from the vehicle. If there is a leak or other problem, those fumes could be circulating inside your car. This is the most dangerous problem because exhaust fumes can be fatal over time.

Your exhaust system is most effective when it is neither seen nor heard. Unfortunately, this can also mean that it is out of sight and out of mind. When it comes to your muffler, don't overlook maintenance. Ignoring problems can increase your muffler repair bill significantly. Instead, if you notice any one of these three warning signs of muffler problems, don’t delay calling your auto shop. They are trained to inspect and diagnose the full exhaust system and can fix problems the correct way.

What’s the state of your exhaust system? Contact our ASE Certified Technicians at Clausen Automotive for more information about signs of muffler problems and to schedule an appointment. Since 1975, our family-owned auto shop has proudly served vehicle owners in Madison, WI, and the surrounding communities.

There are 3 main signs of muffler problems; loud noises, decreased fuel economy, & bad smells. Have an expert mechanic inspect the exhaust system frequently

If your vehicle’s muffler is so loud that you can’t hear the radio playing or your baby crying in the back seat while driving, you need to be aware of the signs of muffler problems. A loud muffler is a big sign that your vehicle's exhaust system is in need of help. The best place to get that help is a professional auto repair mechanic.

Here are 3 of the biggest warning signs of muffler problems:

  1. Loud noises: The most obvious sign is a drastic change in the volume of your muffler. When working properly, the muffler should operate quietly in the background. When something goes wrong, it becomes a roaring monster. 
  2. Decreased fuel economy: A well-tuned exhaust system will get better gas mileage. Pay attention to how often you fill up the tank. More trips than usual to the pump could mean your vehicle has a problem. Newer vehicles have a computer sensor that helps monitor fuel economy and overall performance and catch a problem before it becomes serious. 
  3. Bad smells: One of the biggest signs of a faulty exhaust system is a bad smell. When working properly, your muffler funnels exhaust fumes outside and away from the vehicle. If there is a leak or other problem, those fumes could be circulating inside your car. This is the most dangerous problem because exhaust fumes can be fatal over time.

Your exhaust system is most effective when it is neither seen nor heard. Unfortunately, this can also mean that it is out of sight and out of mind. When it comes to your muffler, don't overlook maintenance. Ignoring problems can increase your muffler repair bill significantly. Instead, if you notice any one of these three warning signs of muffler problems, don’t delay calling your auto shop. They are trained to inspect and diagnose the full exhaust system and can fix problems the correct way.

What’s the state of your exhaust system? Contact our ASE Certified Technicians at Clausen Automotive for more information about signs of muffler problems and to schedule an appointment. Since 1975, our family-owned auto shop has proudly served vehicle owners in Madison, WI, and the surrounding communities.

Steve Clausen