It’s tucked away under the back of your Kia. You probably don’t even think about it. Then, one day, something goes wrong, and you ask yourself, “Do I need a new car muffler?” There are a few key signs to look out for that can tell you when it’s time to replace your muffler at our Kia dealership.
Louder Than Usual Engine Noise
This is usually the first sign that something might be wrong with your muffler. If your car suddenly sounds like a roaring lion when you start it up or when you’re accelerating, that’s a clear warning that your muffler might be damaged. The muffler’s job is to dampen the noise produced by the exhaust system, and if it’s not doing its job, you’ll definitely hear about it.
Decrease in Fuel Efficiency
If you notice that you’ve started to make more frequent trips to the gas station, your muffler might be the culprit. A damaged muffler can cause your engine to work harder, which in turn reduces your car’s fuel efficiency. Keep an eye on your car’s MPG, and if you see a significant drop, it might be time to have your muffler checked out.
Bad Smells
Your muffler also plays a role in directing exhaust fumes out and away from your car. If there’s a problem, you might start smelling those fumes in the cabin, and that’s definitely not something to ignore. Breathing exhaust fumes while driving can be a serious health hazard, so it’s important to get your car checked out right away.
Visible Rust or Damage
Take a peek under your car every now and then. If you see rust or damage on your muffler, that’s a sign that it might be time for a replacement. Road salt and other debris can take a toll on your muffler, causing it to corrode over time. If it’s visibly damaged, it might not be able to do its job anymore.
High Engine Temperatures
If you’ve noticed your car’s temperature gauge creeping higher than usual, it might be more than just an overheating issue. Surprisingly, it could actually be caused by your muffler. A damaged or clogged muffler can cause exhaust gases to back up, creating extra heat under the hood.
Replace Your Car Muffler at Your Kia Dealer
If you’ve noticed any of the signs that your muffler isn’t doing its best, it might be time to give it a little love. And where better to do that than at our local Kia dealer? Randy Marion Kia’s Service Department knows new and used Kia models inside and out and are equipped to give your car (and its muffler) the attention it deserves. With our professional technicians there’s no guesswork and no hassle, just a smooth ride and quiet performance like when you first drove it off the lot.
A well-functioning muffler reduces noise and pollutants, contributes to better engine performance and efficiency, and is just plain safer for you and your passengers. If something’s not right with it, you should schedule a service appointment with Randy Marion Kia in Salisbury, NC.
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Warranties include 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain and 5-year/60,000-mile basic. All warranties and roadside assistance are limited. See retailer for warranty details.