When does my car need a new exhaust system?
The lifespan of an exhaust system can vary. Most of today’s vehicles are made with high-quality steel exhausts, which will typically hold up for about five years, but there are many other conditions that factor in. Some signs that it’s time for a new exhaust system include: A noticeable increase in engine noise; visible rust; and a reduction in fuel efficiency.
Will a new exhaust system improve gas mileage?
In most cases, a new exhaust system will improve fuel efficiency. The question is by how much. Usually, it winds up being somewhere between 2 and 10 percent, which might realistically translate into two mpg. The benefits of a new exhaust system are most pronounced in smaller vehicles. It’s always important to speak with your service technician to learn what kind of performance improvements you can expect from your new exhaust system.
Can exhaust systems increase horsepower?
The great benefit of an exhaust system isn’t that it adds power, but that it allows you to use your current power more efficiently; thus, gas mileage is a better metric than horsepower. With that said, a new exhaust system can increase horsepower, sometimes by as much as 50. In other cases, it may increase your horsepower by just one or two. Always ask your service technician what to expect from a new exhaust system.
How does an exhaust system affect performance?
The exhaust system in your car helps provide you with a safe, reliable performance—reducing noise, reducing emissions, and more. Improving your car with an after-market exhaust system can enhance the performance further, and in a number of ways. It can boost fuel efficiency, better control emissions, and in some cases even free up some additional horsepower for your ride.
What is an exhaust system resonator?
The best way to think about an exhaust system resonator is as an echo chamber of sorts. The muffler can play a big role in keeping your car quiet, but a resonator will make it quieter still—not just removing sound, but actually changing it, making your drive as audibly pleasant as possible. If you’re looking for something to reduce automotive noise, a resonator can be an excellent choice.
What is a dual exhaust system?
Every vehicle has an exhaust system—either single or dual. The role of the exhaust system is to get rid of any excess gasses burned by the engine, helping the engine to stay cool and run smoothly. A dual exhaust system has not one but two exhaust pipes to get rid of this excess gas, which improve the overall engine performance—enhancing gas mileage, adding horsepower, and helping the engine to run cooler.
Can a catalytic converter be repaired?
It is sometimes possible to repair a catalytic converter. With that said, it can often be just as cost-effective to replace it altogether. To learn more about the available options for catalytic converter repair, it’s always best to speak with an expert—specifically your Meineke service technician. We can walk you through the available options for getting your catalytic converter running as it should.
When does a muffler need to be replaced?
There are several telltale signs of muffler failure. The biggest and most obvious is that your car suddenly seems a lot louder than before—a pretty clear indicator that your muffler is no longer doing its job. A visual inspection can also help you diagnose a failed muffler; any signs of dripping water or major rust point to the need for a muffler replacement. Ask your Meineke service tech for any help diagnosing your muffler.