Posted on 12/19/2025
Exhaust parts do a lot of work without much attention. The muffler keeps noise under control, while the catalytic converter cleans up the gases leaving the engine. When either one starts to fail, the car will usually give you a few warning signs before things get really noisy or expensive. Paying attention to those early hints can keep you safer and protect other parts of the exhaust. 1. Louder Exhaust Noise or New Rattles From the Rear One of the first signs many drivers notice is a change in sound. The exhaust may get deeper, boomier, or sharper, especially when you accelerate. Sometimes it sounds like the car suddenly grew a performance muffler you never asked for. If the muffler shell or internal baffles crack, they can rattle and buzz. A loose heat shield or hanger can also create a metallic rattle that changes with bumps or throttle. In the bay, we often find small holes or seams that have opened up from rust, which let exhaust escape before the muffler can q ... read more