First of all, you may be wondering how the muffler and exhaust system are related. Internal combustion engines in their normal operation produce toxic gases known as exhaust. These fumes exit the engine’s cylinders after combustion and flow through the exhaust system to be expelled from the tailpipe, also referred to as the muffler. While the exhaust system is relatively simple in its operation, it plays an important role in engine performance. Any issues can cause problems with the drivability of the vehicle.

So what problems can be caused by a bad muffler?

  • Excessively loud exhaust making hissing sounds -- If any of the exhaust pipes or tubes break or crack, they can cause an exhaust leak that will result in an excessively noisy engine. The exhaust may produce a hissing or tapping sound that may become more pronounced during acceleration.
  • The smell of gasoline from exhaust -- If any of the pipes become damaged and leak, the exhaust fumes may find their way into the body of the car, giving off a smell of gasoline.
  • Loss of Engine Performance -- If the pipes in the exhaust system become damaged or corroded, they can sometimes produce an exhaust leak that can cause the vehicle to experience performance issues, such as a decrease in power, acceleration, and fuel efficiency due to the loss of backpressure.
  • Hanging or dragging exhaust pipe -- The pipes may be visible from the sides of the vehicle if they are hanging down or may make noise if they contact the ground.

Exhaust systems are built specifically to withstand the high stress and heat conditions associated with engine exhaust. However, as with any component of your vehicle, they are still prone to corrosion and rust over time. A problem associated with the exhaust system will be quite obvious, not only for the noise that is produced but also for the effect on engine performance that usually takes place.

If you suspect that your vehicle may be having an issue with the muffler or exhaust system, have it inspected by a professional technician to determine what kind of help your car needs.

Can a bad muffler cause loss of power? Contact our ASE Certified technicians today at Elk River Tire & Auto for more information about exhaust systems and mufflers and to schedule an appointment. Our auto shop in Elk River, MN proudly serves residents in the areas of Zimmerman, and Otsego, Minnesota.

Can a bad muffler cause loss of power? If you are hearing loud noises, decreased fuel efficiency, and smelling a bad odor, make an inspection of your exhaust system.

First of all, you may be wondering how the muffler and exhaust system are related. Internal combustion engines in their normal operation produce toxic gases known as exhaust. These fumes exit the engine’s cylinders after combustion and flow through the exhaust system to be expelled from the tailpipe, also referred to as the muffler. While the exhaust system is relatively simple in its operation, it plays an important role in engine performance. Any issues can cause problems with the drivability of the vehicle.

So what problems can be caused by a bad muffler?

  • Excessively loud exhaust making hissing sounds -- If any of the exhaust pipes or tubes break or crack, they can cause an exhaust leak that will result in an excessively noisy engine. The exhaust may produce a hissing or tapping sound that may become more pronounced during acceleration.
  • The smell of gasoline from exhaust -- If any of the pipes become damaged and leak, the exhaust fumes may find their way into the body of the car, giving off a smell of gasoline.
  • Loss of Engine Performance -- If the pipes in the exhaust system become damaged or corroded, they can sometimes produce an exhaust leak that can cause the vehicle to experience performance issues, such as a decrease in power, acceleration, and fuel efficiency due to the loss of backpressure.
  • Hanging or dragging exhaust pipe -- The pipes may be visible from the sides of the vehicle if they are hanging down or may make noise if they contact the ground.

Exhaust systems are built specifically to withstand the high stress and heat conditions associated with engine exhaust. However, as with any component of your vehicle, they are still prone to corrosion and rust over time. A problem associated with the exhaust system will be quite obvious, not only for the noise that is produced but also for the effect on engine performance that usually takes place.

If you suspect that your vehicle may be having an issue with the muffler or exhaust system, have it inspected by a professional technician to determine what kind of help your car needs.

Can a bad muffler cause loss of power? Contact our ASE Certified technicians today at Elk River Tire & Auto for more information about exhaust systems and mufflers and to schedule an appointment. Our auto shop in Elk River, MN proudly serves residents in the areas of Zimmerman, and Otsego, Minnesota.

Kerry Bannister