3 Signs of a Bad Muffler

July 3, 2019

The muffler is just one part of a vehicle's exhaust system and it plays an important role as harmful gasses are expelled from the engine, burned off and then ultimately sent out through the muffler and tailpipe. The primary purpose of the muffler is to muffle the sounds being produced by the engine, just as the name would suggest. It's also kind of the final gatekeeper to keep the most harmful exhaust fumes from leaking out.

If your muffler is going bad, you will want to get it repaired or replaced before it develops leaks that can cause health or safety risks. Any damage within the exhaust system can also affect the engine itself, so look out for any signs that there is an exhaust problem. When it comes to a failing muffler specifically, though, here are some of the warning signs you might notice:

1. Loud Noises

As we mentioned, the primary purpose of the muffler is to lower the sound of the engine. If you start noticing that your engine is running really loudly and the sound isn't being muffled as usual, then you may have a problem with your muffler. Loud pops, hisses and cracking sounds can also be associated with a damaged muffler or another problem within the exhaust system.

2. Funny Smells

Another common sign of muffler damage or an exhaust leak somewhere in the system is when you smell it. You may smell the exhaust fumes much stronger than usual or there may be some other sort of funny smells you notice when the car is running. Obviously, exhaust leaks are extremely dangerous and pose a serious health risk to the driver or anyone in or around the vehicle. If you think you have an exhaust leak, get your car checked out by a professional mechanic as soon as possible!

3. Reduced Fuel Economy

The exhaust system as a whole—and the muffler itself—have a major impact on the fuel economy of your car. If you notice that you are getting less MPG than usual, you will want to have the exhaust system inspected. There are many other automotive issues that can lead to reduced gas mileage , so a thorough mechanic will be able to pinpoint the source of the problem.

If you are in the Colorado Springs area and notice any of these exhaust system failure warning signs, bring your vehicle into LightHouse Automotive for a professional inspection and quality repairs. Call us today at (719) 465-0302 or schedule your appointment online.

Can Depression Affect Your Ability to Drive Safely? | LightHouse Automotive
By Written by Kukui April 25, 2025
LightHouse Automotive in Colorado Springs, CO, explores how depression can impact driving focus, reaction time, and overall road safety.
Family supporting
March 18, 2025
Support Tia and the Blair Family in Their Time of Need - Lighthouse Automotive
oil leaks | LightHouse Automotive
January 31, 2025
Oil leaks might seem minor, but ignoring them can lead to significant problems for your car.
Our team | LightHouse Automotive
January 23, 2025
Thank you for visiting the LightHouse Automotive Blog. This is the first of what will be many weekly articles featured on this site. Our goal is to provide helpful car care information while also offering insight into the way we do business. You can follow the blog here or like us on Facebook to receive updates when new articles are posted each week. About UsLightHouse Automotive LLC opened in 2003 by owners Rylan and Tia Blair, and we have been an integral part of the Colorado Springs auto repair industry ever since. We take pride in providing quality automotive services with a personal touch. We provide ... read more
exhaust issues | LightHouse Automotive
December 20, 2024
The color of exhaust smoke can indicate the health of your engine and fuel system. Black smoke, in particular, is often a sign that your engine is burning more fuel than necessary.
Flat Tire Service | LightHouse Automotive
November 29, 2024
Let’s walk through the steps of changing a flat tire safely and efficiently.
Car Undercarriage | LightHouse Automotive
October 31, 2024
How can you safeguard your car from this winter menace? Let’s explore some effective strategies.
fall scenery | LightHouse Automotive
September 27, 2024
Here’s a guide on the eight essential steps to get your car winter-ready.
Vehicles at high elevation | LightHouse Autmotive
August 30, 2024
Driving through the Rocky Mountains can be an exhilarating experience, offering breathtaking views and challenging terrain. However, the higher you go, the more your car has to adapt to the changing conditions. Higher elevations can significantly impact your vehicle's performance, and it's crucial to understand these effects to ensure a smooth and safe journey. We'll explore the various challenges cars face at higher altitudes and provide tips on how to prepare for and mitigate these issues.
Transmission fluid flush | LightHouse Automotive
July 26, 2024
Transmission maintenance is one of those things that car owners often overlook until it's too late. But when it comes to keeping your vehicle running, few things are as important as a well-maintained transmission. Among the various maintenance tasks , technicians often recommend a transmission flush. But is it really necessary?
More Posts