How to Know When a Muffler Is Broken

Co-authored by Jason Shackelford

Last Updated: December 19, 2025 References

A muffler is an important component of an engine's exhaust system. The muffler is located in the middle or back of the exhaust, and its purpose is to reduce the noise produced from the exhaust process. It also directs the exhaust gases safely out the vehicle's system. Although manufacturers for regular checkups or replacement do not schedule the muffler, you should learn how to know when a muffler is broken because it does wear out or break. A defective muffler can cause significant noise pollution and pose a hazard for any of the vehicle's occupants.

1

Know the risks of a defective muffler.

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Damaged mufflers may emit dangerous gases. If the muffler has a hole, it can cause dangerous gases such as carbon monoxide to leak into the cabin of a vehicle. This colorless, odorless gas is a product of the combustion process. Mild exposure to carbon monoxide can cause headaches, dizziness, and nausea. Prolonged carbon monoxide exposure can lead to unconsciousness and death.^{[1]
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- Additionally, many homeowners' associations, cities, restaurants, and apartment complexes have laws against loud noises from defective mufflers. If you have a broken muffler, you may face fines or refusal of service until you get the muffler fixed.
- A damaged muffler can also cause a car trip to be noisy and uncomfortable.

2

Listen to the sound of your vehicle.

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^{[2]
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Research source} Thumping or clunking may indicate that something is broken in the exhaust system. Some mufflers contain baffles to reduce the noise of the exhaust system. These may become broken or loose and cause ratting in a muffler.

3

Inspect the muffler for any holes and rust.

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Use a car jack to raise the car and examine the muffler.^{[3]
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Research source} Inspect the muffler for any holes and rust. Visible rust on the outside may indicate an even worse problem on the inside of the muffler. Look for water dripping, as well; if it’s dripping from several places, holes may have formed from rust.
- Minor surface rust may be normal if it does not penetrate the metal.
- Some condensation does occur inside a muffler, and some manufacturers include a small drain hole.
To inspect your muffler, park on a flat surface. Secure and stabilize your vehicle on a solid surface like a driveway or garage floor. Grass or gravel can be unstable and cause your car to shift, which may lead to injury. Before diving under your car, choose your parking spot wisely.

4

Check the temperature of the engine.

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A damaged muffler could cause the engine to overheat. Check the engine’s temperature after the car has run a while. If the car overheats, it may mean there are problems with your car's exhaust system. If the muffler is damaged or has come apart, this could cause a partial blockage and cause the engine to overheat or lose power.
- Take your car to a mechanic if you suspect your car has a defective muffler.

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How do I safely jack my car?

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This answer was written by one of our trained team of researchers who validated it for accuracy and comprehensiveness.

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It's essential to ensure that your vehicle is parked on a firm and level surface. Steer clear of soft surfaces such as grass or gravel, as they may cause the car to shift, lose balance, and create a hazardous situation. Additionally, before jacking up your car, engage the parking brake and chock the wheels to the opposite side where it's being lifted to enhance stability and prevent unwanted movement.

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What if there is a clear water leak from a muffler?

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Water leaking from a muffler is normal when you have not driven far enough to cause the muffler to be so hot that it turns the water vapor in the exhaust to steam as it exits. The water vapor from the burned gasoline condenses in the exhaust pipe and muffler when the pipes and muffler are cold. This water from condensation is what causes rust in the muffler, and the rust causes the muffler to develop holes.

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Is there any way to get it to work?

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If the pipe that leads to or out of a muffler is broken, it's possible to be repaired. If the muffler itself is broken, it cannot be fixed and should be replaced.

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Tips

Perform the same tests if your car has a resonator attached to the tailpipe near the muffler. A resonator acts like a small muffler and provides additional exhaust silencing.

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Take extra care when raising up a car with jacks. Use jack stands to support the car while examining the muffler.

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Warnings

The exhaust system may be hot during the inspection and cause burns. Use caution and allow the car to cool down before touching anything.

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Carbon monoxide gas is a colorless, odorless gas that can be deadly.

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