Hole in mufler making car sound louder. Is this immediate MOT fail?
rusty with a single hole mufler making car noiser. The hole present in top side of mufler. I expect this fail the car in the MOT I'm preparing it for, what do you think? I'm obviously looking to fix it urgently but running out of time for MOT. Also, is it best replacing the whole exhaust pipe inc mufler or just mufler because the price of parts on Europarts website is the same. Any other suggestion where to buy good quality parts from?
Many thanks,
Ned
My car has 92000 miles.
My car has a manual transmission.
Experienced mechanics share their insights in answering this question :
Hi there. If the hole is just in the muffler then you only will need to replace that. The pipes will not need to be replaced unless they are showing signs of weakness. It is important that you get this taken care of as soon as possible as that leak can cause further issues. You can purchase a new muffler at the dealer or most exhaust shops will have replacements available at a much better price.
How to Identify and Fix Common car Problems ?
Our sources include academic articles, blog posts, and personal essays from experienced mechanics :
There`s no question that the most noticeable sign of muffler problems is the sound; suddenly your car is a lot louder than normal. Unfortunately, this increase in engine sound usually means your muffler or exhaust system has a hole in it and requires immediate repair or replacement at a muffler shop.
The rattling noise can be caused by the support rail losing the ability to create enough tension for a timing chain, which is due to the support rail being made of a durable plastic that can become brittle and break. It is important to get a Mini Cooper checked out if it is making this noise.
One of the common signs of an exhaust leak is engine noise that is louder than usual. Significantly while accelerating. You may also hear popping or hissing noises while the engine is running. An exhaust leak can also cause a noticeable loss of power when accelerating.
Loss of Power
An engine runs optimally when exhaust flow is uninterrupted. An exhaust leak causes a drop in back pressure, which can lead to a decrease in power and sluggish acceleration.
A loose bracket, rubber hanger or connector, or one that is badly corroded, can allow a muffler to rattle as the exhaust pipe bangs against another part of your vehicle when you accelerate or drive on bumpy roads, or even when you first start the car and it`s stationary and idling.
Loud squeaking or squealing noise while accelerating could mean there`s a problem with your engine belt. It could mean the belt`s loose or worn. Or it could mean that one of the belt`s pulleys is starting to fail. Loud rumbling noise when accelerating might suggest there`s a problem with your exhaust system.
A loud rumbling noise when accelerating might suggest there`s a problem with your exhaust system. There might be a leak somewhere, and the rumbling is the sound of your system working extra hard to manage excess exhaust fumes.
Driving with a loud muffler is potentially dangerous. If your muffler is loud because of a hole, rust, or other defect, carbon monoxide may be getting into the cabin of your vehicle. Carbon monoxide can be dangerous to you and your passengers.
A rattling noise, low gas mileage and the smell of exhaust fumes are all indicators that your muffler needs to be replaced.
If the exhaust has a hole in it, the system will be rendered less efficient and more vulnerable. One of the tell-tale signs of an exhaust pipe hole is extremely loud noises. Backfiring is possible, too. In scenarios like these, the air mixes with the fuel and creates back pressure, which causes backfiring.
Holes along the exhaust system can cause harmful gases to seep into your passenger cabin. These gases include carbon monoxide. Carbon monoxide is a deadly, odorless, and colorless gas that`s produced by the incomplete burning of fuels.
Loss of Acceleration and Power
An exhaust leak can affect the performance of your engine. You may notice that your vehicle doesn`t have its usual pick-up-and-go when you punch down the gas pedal. Your vehicle will continue to lose power if the exhaust leak isn`t fixed.
If ignored, any unresolved issues with your car`s muffler can significantly reduce the efficiency of your auto, cause severe engine problems, all resulting in very high auto repair bills.
Misalignment – When part of your exhaust system mounts begin to wear or fail, they can become misaligned from the rest of the exhaust system. This can cause loud vibrations and rattling. Incorrect installation If an exhaust repair was previously carried out incorrectly, you may experience loud rattling and shaking.
Driving with a loud muffler is potentially dangerous. If your muffler is loud because of a hole, rust, or other defect, carbon monoxide may be getting into the cabin of your vehicle. Carbon monoxide can be dangerous to you and your passengers.
If you feel your car is more noisy than usual there could be an issue with cylinder compression. If there is an uneven air-fuel ration in the cylinder, combustion can occur at higher or lower rates than normal.
An engine that is suddenly running louder than normal is usually crying for help. In the majority of cases an underlying problem is causing the engine to rumble. Problems can range from something simple like dirty spark plugs to the more serious failing muffler or catalytic converter.
If you feel your car is more noisy than usual there could be an issue with cylinder compression. If there is an uneven air-fuel ration in the cylinder, combustion can occur at higher or lower rates than normal.
Relevant Questions and Answers :
the most relevant questions and answers related to your specific issue
Hole in mufler making car sound louder. Is this immediate MOT fail?
ANSWER : Hi there. If the hole is just in the muffler then you only will need to replace that. The pipes will not need to be replaced unless they are showing signs of weakness. It is important that you get this taken care of as soon as possible as that leak can cause further issues. You can purchase a new muffler at the dealer or most exhaust shops will have replacements available at a much better price.
Read Full Q/A … : Hole in mufler making car sound louder. Is this immediate MOT fail?
Car sounds like golf cart when revving and braking; also leaking fluid; sound fades as car warms up
ANSWER : Hello,
There are a number of things that could make an engine noisy when starting up. Depending on the specific type of sound you are referring to, this will determine how to properly diagnose. If there is a bit of a hissing sound, this may be a sign of a vacuum leak. If this is more of a shrieking sound, this may be a sign of a worn out or out of adjustment serpentine belt. If there is a bit of a howling or growling sound, this may be a sign of a worn out or low on fluid power steering pump. A rattling or pinging sound may be caused by an ignition problem. An engine can ping (or knock) due to an improper combustion process. A "spark knock" is the result of combustion occurring too early. Early combustion can occur from carbon buildup inside the combustion chamber, a lean air/fuel mixture, and advanced ignition timing (spark plug firing too soon). A clattering type sound may be a result of improper lubrication in the valve train which could be a more serious problem and should be addressed as soon as possible. I would suggest having an expert from YourMechanic come to your location to diagnose and inspect your vehicle to ensure everything is in proper working order.
There are a number of things that could make an engine noisy when starting up. Depending on the specific type of sound you are referring to, this will determine how to properly diagnose. If there is a bit of a hissing sound, this may be a sign of a vacuum leak. If this is more of a shrieking sound, this may be a sign of a worn out or out of adjustment serpentine belt. If there is a bit of a howling or growling sound, this may be a sign of a worn out or low on fluid power steering pump. A rattling or pinging sound may be caused by an ignition problem. An engine can ping (or knock) due to an improper combustion process. A "spark knock" is the result of combustion occurring too early. Early combustion can occur from carbon buildup inside the combustion chamber, a lean air/fuel mixture, and advanced ignition timing (spark plug firing too soon). A clattering type sound may be a result of improper lubrication in the valve train which could be a more serious problem and should be addressed as soon as possible. I would suggest having an expert from YourMechanic come to your location to diagnose and inspect your vehicle to ensure everything is in proper working order.
Read Full Q/A … : Hole in mufler making car sound louder. Is this immediate MOT fail?
2006 Mazda 3 makes a hum sound when accelerating. Sound is louder at higher speeds but stops when car is out in neutral and still
ANSWER : Hi there. If the humming sound is coming from your vehicle while it’s in gear, then the likely source is the transmission. It is possible that CV joints or wheel bearings might also be the source of your problem, but those typically make noise all the time. It would probably be a good idea to have a professional mobile mechanic come to your location to complete a car is making a noise inspection, so they can pinpoint the source of this issue and recommend the right repairs.
Read Full Q/A … : Hole in mufler making car sound louder. Is this immediate MOT fail?
My car makes a loud humming like whoop sound when I accelerate past 50 MPH and gets louder the faster I coming from front end.
ANSWER : If the noise suddenly appears at 50 mph, then check the brake system as there could be an issue with the brake pads rubbing the rotors. If the noise starts off quiet and gets louder with speed, then check the wheel bearings as they are out of grease and the bearings are rubbing metal to metal. If you need further assistance with a humming noise at 50 mph, then seek out a professional, such as one from Your Mechanic, to help you.
Read Full Q/A … : Hole in mufler making car sound louder. Is this immediate MOT fail?
Car is making a grinding/clanking sound
ANSWER : Hello. It sounds like you had a total transmission failure. When you have a severe internal breakage, like a sun shell or clutch pack, this will occur. The transmission will need to be disassembled and rebuilt in order to fix this. You will most likely need to take the vehicle to a transmission specialist that specializes in these transmissions. If you would like to have the car inspected first, a technician from YourMechanic can come to your car’s location to determine what is causing the grinding sound.
Read Full Q/A … : Hole in mufler making car sound louder. Is this immediate MOT fail?
Car makes a loud sound every time I start my car, at idle, and when driving at low speeds
ANSWER : Hello. The first thing to check would be your fluid levels. I’m not sure what type of noise you have, but ticking noises at idle can be linked to a low oil level. If there is a vacuum leak, the should may be more prominent at idle then fade as the engine speed increases. A vacuum leak would generally turn on the Check Engine Light as well. I recommend having a certified technician, like one from YourMechanic, inspect the hard start and advise you on any repairs.
Read Full Q/A … : Hole in mufler making car sound louder. Is this immediate MOT fail?
Oil leaking from under car and "remote control car" sound when car is first started for a few minutes until it warm up.
ANSWER : Hello,
There are a number of things that could make an engine noisy when starting up. Depending on the specific type of sound you are referring to, this will determine how to properly diagnose. If there is a bit of a hissing sound, this may be a sign of a vacuum leak. If this is more of a shrieking sound, this may be a sign of a worn out or out of adjustment serpentine belt. If there is a bit of a howling or growling sound, this may be a sign of a worn out or low on fluid power steering pump. A rattling or pinging sound may be caused by an ignition problem. An engine can ping (or knock) due to an improper combustion process. A "spark knock" is the result of combustion occurring too early. Early combustion can occur from carbon buildup inside the combustion chamber, a lean air/fuel mixture, and advanced ignition timing (spark plug firing too soon). A clattering type sound may be a result of improper lubrication in the valve train which could be a more serious problem and should be addressed as soon as possible. I would suggest having an expert from YourMechanic come to your location to diagnose and inspect your vehicle to ensure everything is in proper working order.
There are a number of things that could make an engine noisy when starting up. Depending on the specific type of sound you are referring to, this will determine how to properly diagnose. If there is a bit of a hissing sound, this may be a sign of a vacuum leak. If this is more of a shrieking sound, this may be a sign of a worn out or out of adjustment serpentine belt. If there is a bit of a howling or growling sound, this may be a sign of a worn out or low on fluid power steering pump. A rattling or pinging sound may be caused by an ignition problem. An engine can ping (or knock) due to an improper combustion process. A "spark knock" is the result of combustion occurring too early. Early combustion can occur from carbon buildup inside the combustion chamber, a lean air/fuel mixture, and advanced ignition timing (spark plug firing too soon). A clattering type sound may be a result of improper lubrication in the valve train which could be a more serious problem and should be addressed as soon as possible. I would suggest having an expert from YourMechanic come to your location to diagnose and inspect your vehicle to ensure everything is in proper working order.
Read Full Q/A … : Hole in mufler making car sound louder. Is this immediate MOT fail?
Car is making a metal scraping sound – 2001 Saturn L200
ANSWER : There are really only a couple possibilities: if the noise started "suddenly" or abruptly, as you describe it, you may have picked up something from the road that is somehow "lodged" somewhere rubbing a wheel, shaft (axle), or other rotating part. That possibility also could include something metal ON your car that has moved out of position (gotten loose) and is rubbing on a rotating component or suspension.
The second possibility is you have a part failure in the braking system (possibly worn out pads, but what you are describing is not consistent with that) or an internal part failure potentially in the transmission, torque converter, differential, axle (CV joint) or similar "moving" part.
For the first possibility, you might be able to track it down using a visual inspection but you have to get the car pretty far up off the ground. The second possibility would involve applying wireless "chassis ears" to various parts of your car and driving it to pinpoint the exact "area" (or component) which is generating the noise.
Once the area is pinpointed, it is fairly easy to go from there and identify the exact problem. Prior to using tools such as chassis ears, of course, it is possible that YourMechanic can pinpoint the noise just based on actually hearing the sound and its apparent location. Sometimes noises are so "diffused" throughout the vehicle that chassis ears make the diagnosis much more efficient though.
Read Full Q/A … : Hole in mufler making car sound louder. Is this immediate MOT fail?
