In the know: What are mufflers for?

Porsche Cayenne Exclusiv

Your car’s engine is a complex mechanism that generates a considerable amount of power and creates a ton of noise. Excessive noise is not only distracting but constant exposure to loud sound can have detrimental effects on the driver and the passengers.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

  • What is the purpose of a muffler?

    A muffler works to deaden the sound your vehicle's engine makes.
  • Can a muffler help with your vehicle's performance?

    A properly working muffler can help the engine generate more power.
  • That said, we’re going to look at the part of your vehicle responsible for muffling out your engine’s loud sound — the muffler.

    toyota hilux rear

    What do mufflers do?

    A muffler's main job is to deaden the booming sound generated by your vehicle’s engine.

    See, an internal combustion engine creates the power to propel the vehicle by way of combustion. As the engine goes through the combustion process, large bursts of burnt gases are released through the exhaust system which creates loud sounds.

    People who are constantly exposed to loud noises, per the US Centers for Diseases Control and Prevention (CDC), are at risk of experiencing “stress, anxiety, depression, high blood pressure, heart disease, and many other health problems.”

    Your muffler works by reducing the sound of the high-pressure gas, making your driving experience more convenient and comfortable.

    But that’s not all…

    Mufflers and your car’s performance

    In addition to regulating the sound going out of the exhaust, a muffler also aids in maximizing your vehicle’s performance. As a muffler allows the exhaust gas to exit your vehicle’s system, it also takes in fresh air which helps the engine generate more power.

    Experts say that the faster this process occurs, the better and the more efficient your car will run.

    All-new-Suzuki-GSX-S1000-rear

    Bottom line

    Mufflers do play an important role in how your car or your motorcycle functions. A properly working muffler not only saves you from going deaf but also helps your vehicle perform better.

    Photos from Porsche, Suzuki, and Toyota

    Also read: 

    In the know: Is it normal to see water come out of your exhaust pipe?

    In the know: Can engine oil go bad or stale in your car?

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