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What do mufflers do?

My mechanic says I need a new muffler on my Honda. Here’s my question—what do mufflers actually *do*? (I didn’t want to ask because I was afraid of what he’d think!)

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Rachel Rigolino · Updated on
Reviewed by Shannon Martin, Licensed Insurance Agent.
Asking questions about how your Honda works is never silly! That’s how car owners learn. The list below explains what mufflers do and also discusses some warning signs that your muffler is going bad.
  • Your muffler actually “muffles” or decreases the sound of your engine. It does this by directing the engine’s sound through a series of tubes and chambers. Chances are, if your muffler is bad, your Honda’s been sounding louder.
  • Another role of the muffler is to direct fumes away from the engine and the car’s cabin. If your muffler has a hole, you may have noticed a smell in the car. You don’t want to drive around with toxic fumes seeping into the cabin!
  • A working muffler can even aid in fuel efficiency by helping airflow. Some car owners even install aftermarket performance mufflers in part to increase fuel efficiency.
Finally, your muffler is part of your car’s exhaust system. This system comprises the muffler, exhaust manifold, catalytic converter, and exhaust pipes. Ask your mechanic if he’ll show you a diagram of the system—more than likely, he’ll be happy to share his expertise!
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