A Guide For Buying Mufflers
The engine is naturally loud and creates sound due to the explosions in the combustion chamber. These loud sounds are suppressed by the exhaust system of the vehicle. A muffler is an integral part of this exhaust system and controls the amount of sound emitted with the help of individual chambers existing within it. A muffler can give your vehicle a distinguished sound, improve fuel efficiency and performance. This comprehensive muffler buying guide will help you in choosing the best muffler so you can extract the best out of your vehicle.
In this article:
1. What Is A Muffler And How Does It Work?
- What’s Inside a Muffler?
2. What Type Of Muffler Should I Choose?
3. What Are The Factors I Should Consider When Looking For A Muffler?
4. Which Top Brand Muffler Should I Choose?
5. What Are The Symptoms That My Muffler Is Bad?
6. How Much Will A New Muffler Cost Me?
7. What Muffler Fits my Car?
1 What Is A Muffler And How Does It Work?
A muffler is a metal device that is shaped like a flask and is installed along the exhaust pipe underneath the vehicle. Mufflers typically have one inlet and an outlet with a chamber in between. It is situated between the tailpipe and the catalytic converter or resonator.
Mufflers are an important part of any car’s exhaust system. Because of their engine silencing effect, driving a vehicle without a properly functioning muffler can be an unpleasant experience. The chamber of the muffler consists of small mini chambers, perforated pipes, and plates. The sound generated by the engine moves forward along the exhaust system as pressure waves and these pressure waves are canceled out by negative pressure waves created by interference from the muffler. The perforated pipes, plates, and the design of the muffler play an important role in reducing these waves and producing a muffled sound. The design of the muffler can change the behavior of the pressure waves generated in the exhaust system and consequently the exhaust note.
What’s Inside a Muffler?
A muffler is an essential component of a car’s exhaust system that helps reduce the noise produced by the engine. A muffler is made up of a set of tubes that are designed to create reflected waves that interfere with each other or cancel each other out. The exhaust gasses and sound waves enter through the center tube and bounce off the back wall of the muffler. They are then reflected through a hole into the main body of the muffler, where they pass through a set of holes into another chamber. From there, they turn and go out the last pipe and leave the muffler. A chamber called a resonator is connected to the first chamber by a hole. The resonator contains a specific volume of air and has a specific length that is calculated to produce a wave that cancels out a certain frequency of sound.
The tubes inside the muffler are carefully tuned to generate the right level of noise reduction, almost like a musical instrument. Mufflers are typically constructed with a series of chambers and tubes, often filled with sound-absorbing materials like fiberglass batting. When exhaust gasses exit the engine, they do so at high pressure and velocity, producing a loud, popping noise. Mufflers work by allowing these high-pressure exhaust gasses to expand and slow down.
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2 What Type Of Muffler Should I Choose?
The design and construction of the mufflers can significantly affect the performance and engine characteristics in various ways. To understand more about mufflers, let’s look at the different types and designs.
According To Design
1. Baffle Type Muffler
A baffle type muffler consists of one or many perforated tubes inside the muffler chamber. These perforated cylindrical tubes are called baffles, and they restrict the direct passage of exhaust gases. The exhaust gases move through these holes and traverse a longer path in the muffler, which causes the loud noises and pressure waves to cancel out. The baffle type mufflers are perfect if you need a quiet sound instead of more airflow. Due to the restricted flow of the exhaust gases, they have a slight negative impact on engine performance. These are fitted as a standard on most vehicles.
2. Chambered Muffler
These types of mufflers have a series of inner chambers at specific lengths to cancel out the sound waves by reflecting them against each other. The exhaust note can vary depending on the size and number of chambers. You can also customize the arrangement of the chambers to achieve an ideal sound to performance ratio. If you want a throaty rumble for your muscle or streetcar, a chambered muffler is the best option to choose.
3. Straight-Through Muffler
Straight-through mufflers are designed for maximum airflow and horsepower. These mufflers comprise a perforated pipe, surrounded by a sound-absorbing material like fiberglass. These mufflers are also known as glasspacks. Straight-through mufflers pose minimal restriction to the exhaust gases and are comparatively louder than other mufflers. They are widely used on race cars and performance vehicles.
4. Turbo Muffler
A turbo muffler is a combination of glasspack and chambered mufflers. It features a set of perforated tubes that guide the exhaust gases through the muffler in an S-shaped pattern. The perforated tubes are surrounded by a sound-absorbing material for noise reduction. They are restrictive and less loud compared to chambered mufflers. They are a good option if you are seeking a modest upgrade over the factory muffler.
According To Fit
1. Direct Fit Muffler
Direct fit mufflers are designed to attach to your vehicle’s exhaust system with no modifications. They are manufactured according to the dimensions of your vehicle’s OE muffler, including the size, shape, and hanger position. Direct fit mufflers are comparatively expensive because they are engineered to fit your vehicle perfectly with no under-vehicle clearance or fitment issues. They are a perfect choice if you want to avoid the hassle of modification required to install a muffler or if you want to install it yourself.
2. Universal Fit Muffler
Universal fit mufflers are designed to be used on several vehicles, and they require some modifications to the vehicle or the exhaust before they can be fitted to the vehicle. The modifications can include fabricating a new hanger, altering the exhaust pipe diameter, welding, custom clamps, adapters, etc. Attaching a universal fit muffler to your vehicle’s exhaust system may require a professional to carry out the operation. They are cheap and an easy replacement for your failing muffler, but they don’t offer the fit and finish like the direct-fit mufflers.
According To Purpose
1. Standard or Stock Muffler
These are mufflers that are fitted on your vehicle from the factory. Standard or stock mufflers are designed to cancel out the sound waves to a maximum degree and are very restrictive. You shouldn’t expect any power or torque gains from these mufflers as they are not designed for performance but to keep the vehicle quiet.
2. Performance Mufflers
Performance mufflers are free-flowing mufflers that offer little restriction to the exhaust gases, thereby boosting power. They are louder compared to stock mufflers and are offered in various styles. Performance mufflers can look like stock mufflers with reconfigured internals for more power.
3. Racing Mufflers
Racing mufflers are used for high horsepower applications. These types of mufflers are usually a straight-through type muffler that allows free flow of exhaust gases. Performance mufflers are fairly loud and are used on race cars and custom vehicles.
3 What Are The Factors I Should Consider When Looking For A Muffler?
With a wide range and different types of mufflers available, finding the right muffler for your vehicle can be challenging. Choosing the right muffler is important, as it can significantly affect the performance of your vehicle. Complying with state laws is also important while selecting a muffler. Some points to consider while choosing a muffler are as follows.
1. Fit
Ensuring the right fit and compatibility of mufflers is very important since not all mufflers are designed to be universal. Vehicles come with single or dual exhaust systems, the number of inlets and outlets, and the exhaust pipe diameters can differ too. Therefore, you must select a muffler that fits your vehicle and you can easily do that by selecting your vehicle and navigating through PartsAvatar website to find perfect fitment mufflers for your vehicle.
Mufflers are available in universal and direct fit options. Universal fit mufflers are cheaper as compared to direct fit ones and can save you a lot of money. Direct-fit mufflers are designed to fit perfectly with no modifications to your vehicle, and they are very easy to install if you want to do it yourself. Fitting a universal muffler on your vehicle requires minor fabrication, cutting, and additional work and therefore requires a professional to carry out the operation.
2. Material
Mufflers undergo a lot of stress, high temperatures, and external conditions, therefore, it is imperative that they are made from durable materials. The materials widely used in mufflers are stainless steel and aluminum. Aluminum is lighter and comparatively cheaper but is more prone to corrosion. Stainless steel mufflers offer resistance from rust and corrosion and are a better option if you live in rainy areas.
3. Laws
It is important to check whether the muffler you are purchasing complies with the noise emission levels allowed by the state law. If your muffler is too loud, you might get a ticket. The sound rating of a muffler is measured in decibels (dB) and is usually included in the specifications of the muffler. Ensure that the dB or the sound rating of the muffler is below 83 Decibels (dB) mandated by the Motor Vehicles Safety Act of 1993 by the Government of Canada.
4. Sound
Different mufflers have different sounds, and it depends on their design and construction. If you need a louder tone from your exhaust, consider a straight-through or a glass-packed model. For a lighter and luxurious exhaust note, you can go for a chambered or turbo muffler design.
4 Which Top Brand Muffler Should I Choose?
Walker Mufflers
The caliper houses the brake pads that squeeze against the rotors and stop your vehicle. First, you need to loosen the caliper bolts to move the caliper away from the rotor assembly. Choose the correct size of socket and ring spanner to carry out the operation. Calipers come in one-piece and two-piece designs that are secured with two or four bolts and this can vary depending on the vehicle. You can spray penetrating oil to aid in removing them if they do not open easily.
Walker USA is a pioneer brand when it comes to exhaust systems. Walker USA offers a wide range of exhaust pipes, converters, resonators, and mufflers. Mufflers by Walker USA are designed from the finest emission control technologies and engineered for medium and heavy-duty vehicles.
Part number: 21690, 21746, 21744, 21745, 21725, and more.
Features
- Corrosion resistance construction delivers longer life and reduced moisture collection.
- Designed for OE equivalent sound and precision fit.
- Spun-locked heads for a proper resistance to backfire.
- Bridge construction and durable internal partitions for structural strength and longer life.
- Mechanically joined internal tubes to allow expansion and contraction during temperature changes.
For more information and a detailed product line, visit the Walker Mufflers section.
Flowmaster Mufflers
The exhaust system is one of the most important components of the vehicle that can significantly affect the performance of the vehicle. Founded in 1983, Flowmaster has been a reputed brand when it comes to quality exhaust systems. The company manufactures high-performance exhausts and mufflers for cars, trucks, and SUVs. No matter what type of vehicle you have, Flowmaster has the right muffler for you.
Part number: 842515, 8425152, 943045, 8425454, 815425S, and more.
Features
- Fully MIG welded for trouble-free and exceptional performance.
- Made from high-quality materials like aluminized steel or stainless steel for long life and durability.
- Leak-resistant and durable for long-lasting performance.
- Improved fuel economy and a decent exhaust note.
- Advanced Delta Flow technology offers excellent noise cancellation and improved exhaust scavenging.
For more information and a detailed product line, visit the Flowmaster Mufflers section.
Flowtech Mufflers
Flowtech is a reputed manufacturer of high-performance exhaust systems for all sorts of vehicles, cars, and trucks. The exhaustive line of mufflers and exhaust systems are designed to offer maximum performance. Flowtech mufflers are designed using state-of-art technology to deliver exceptional quality at an affordable cost. If you need a brand you can trust, you can always count on Flowtech for all your muffler replacement needs.
Part number: 50251FLT, 50252FLT, 50052FLT, 50250FLT, 50232FLT, and more.
Features
- Designed to deliver trouble-free and exceptional performance.
- Made from a heavy gauged case for long life and durability.
- Built to match OE specifications and very easy to fit.
- Tested for quality assurance.
- Free-flowing inner tubes offer low restriction and reduced back-pressure.
For more information and a detailed product line, visit the Flowtech Mufflers section.
Dynomax Mufflers
Dynomax is a leading manufacturer of performance exhaust systems in North America. It has been one of the leading manufacturers for 25 years in the market and offers high-quality, long-lasting, and premium exhaust mufflers. Dynomax offers engineered mufflers designed to channel the exhaust gases in an efficient manner to provide maximum performance. No matter what type of vehicle you have, Dynomax offers a wide range of mufflers to fulfill all your needs.
Part number: 17698, 17733, 17731, 17674, 17749, and more.
Features
- Manufactured from high-quality materials for durability and long life.
- Tested for quality and reliability.
- High-quality fiberglass material for maximum noise reduction.
- Built to match OE specifications and very easy to fit.
- Low backpressure for increased flow and performance.
- Tested for quality assurance.
For more information and a detailed product line, visit the Dynomax Mufflers section.
5 What Are The Symptoms That My Muffler Is Bad?
A muffler is essential for controlling the engine noise and plays a vital role in the overall performance of the vehicle. Therefore, one should always ensure that it is in good shape and monitor the following symptoms of a bad muffler:
1. Exhaust Louder Than Normal
A very obvious symptom of a bad muffler is an excessively noisy exhaust. The muffler can crack or rust and can even break off, causing the exhaust gases and the sound to escape. This leads to loud noise and other problems like decreased fuel efficiency and performance.
2. Condensation From The Tailpipe
Excessive condensation from the exhaust pipe is another symptom of a bad muffler. The moisture in the air condenses inside the muffler and causes rust. This moisture eats away the muffler as it goes through countless warm-up and cool-down cycles. This can cause the muffler to corrode and leak.
3. Engine Misfiring
A damaged muffler can affect the performance of the engine. Modern vehicles are fine-tuned and all the parts of a vehicle, including the exhaust system, work in conjunction to operate efficiently. Any leak in or hole in the muffler can lead to engine misfiring, and this usually happens while decelerating. This can cause loud exhaust noise, decreased performance, and low fuel economy.
6 How Much Does A New Muffler Cost Me?
The price of a muffler can vary depending on the brand, material used, and the performance it offers. Mufflers on PartsAvatar can cost you from $30 to $1000, and muffler sets can cost you extra. Muffler repair or replacement can also include fixing the broken clamps and hardware that can increase your repairing cost.
| Walker Mufflers – Part Number Catalog | |
| Category | Part Numbers |
| Universal Fit Mufflers | 17883, 18101, 18150, 18161, 17165, 18138, 18113, 18106, 18160, 17809 |
| Direct Fit Mufflers | 18942, 18930, 18439, 18833, 18435, 18944, 18905, 18899, 18951, 18977 |
| Flowmaster Mufflers – Part Number Catalog | |
| Category | Part Numbers |
| Flowmaster Mufflers | 8425453, 9430502, 325108, 8425154, 9430462, 943050, 9430742, 12512409, 9525454 |
7 What Muffler Fits my Car?
The type of muffler that fits your car depends on the make and model of your vehicle. The owner’s manual of your car should provide information on the type of muffler that is best suited for your car.
If you’re looking to replace your muffler with an aftermarket one, you can use the following steps to help you choose the right muffler for your car:
- Determine the size of the muffler: The size of the muffler you need depends on the size of your car’s engine. A larger engine requires a larger muffler, while a smaller engine requires a smaller muffler.
- Choose the type of muffler: There are different types of mufflers available, each with its own unique sound and performance characteristics. Some of the most common types of mufflers include straight-through mufflers, chambered mufflers, and turbo mufflers.
- Consider the material: Mufflers can be made from different materials such as stainless steel, aluminized steel, and mild steel. Stainless steel is the most durable and long-lasting material, while aluminized steel is more affordable and provides good corrosion resistance.
- Check the inlet and outlet configuration: The inlet and outlet configuration of the muffler should match that of your car’s exhaust system.
It’s important to note that choosing the right muffler for your car can be a complex process. If you’re unsure about which muffler to choose, it’s best to consult with a professional mechanic.
