How to Replace a Muffler

When you need to replace the muffler on your vehicle it is not always neccessary to got to a repair shop. You can find the muffler, then remove it and bring it to your auto parts store to get a matching replacement. Kits with extra clamps and bolts are also sometimes helpful.

• Wait until the car is completely cooled down if it has been driven recently.


• Locate the muffler in the rear of the vehicle.


• Make sure you have secured the vehicle properly on a very level surface.


• Using jacks, lift the back of the vehicle enough that maneuvering underneath will be easy for you.


• Use more then one jack (two is usually enough) to stabilize the the vehicle evenly for safety purposes. Add wood blocks (or something solid) under the car in case of jack failure.


• Spray the clamp bolts, which hold the exaust system, with a good lubricant and disconnect the clamps and muffler hangers.


• Remove the old muffler and dispose of it somewhere safe. The rust and potential sharp edges could hurt someone.


• Grab the new muffler and place it in the correct position, which is the same as before you removed the old one.


• Position the clamps and hangers then refasten with the old bolts or supplies from a new kit.


• Check that all clamps are tight and the muffler and exaust sytem is fit into the correct position.


• Start the vehicle to make sure everything sounds good, then give the accelerator a few pumps to check for vibrations.