What to Expect With an Exhaust System Service
1. Schedule Your Appointment
Whether scheduling online or over the phone be sure and let us know what you're experiencing so we can provide fast and accurate service advice.
2. Diagnostics and Inspections
Drop off your vehicle and the shop will get to work with inspections and diagnostics using the same equipment as the manufacturers to determine issues and next steps.
3. Digital Vehicle Inspection Report and Estimate
Following the diagnosis we will text you a digital vehicle inspection report, containing pictures and videos of our findings and recommendations.
4. Review and Approval
A service advisor will reach out to walk you through the findings and recommendations to determine how you would like to proceed, or you can approve work directly in your DVI.
5. Work Performed or Scheduled
Most work can be completed immediately, or scheduled based on parts and customer availability.
Did You Know: There’s more ways to save money on gas than at the gas station. Clean filters and properly inflated tires help to keep cars running more fuel efficiently.
Signs Your Vehicle May Need Muffler Repair
Most drivers notice changes in their vehicle's sound or appearance long before a complete muffler failure occurs. Identifying these warning signs early allows you to schedule an inspection before the problem escalates. Early detection helps you avoid extensive damage, unexpected breakdowns, and higher repair costs down the road.
Beyond just noise, physical symptoms can indicate serious safety hazards like dragging components or exhaust leaks. Loose parts may spark on the road, while excessive volume can attract unwanted attention from law enforcement. Addressing these issues promptly protects your vehicle's integrity and ensures you stay compliant with local noise regulations.
- Loud Rumbling: A deep, increasing exhaust noise typically signals internal muffler damage or holes in the system.
- Rattling Noises: Clunking sounds from the rear often indicate loose brackets or broken internal muffler components.
- Visible Damage: Rust spots, holes, or black soot around seams show that exhaust gases are escaping improperly.
- Hanging Low: A crooked or dragging muffler suggests broken hangers, risking sparks and further undercarriage damage.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it safe to drive if I smell exhaust in my car?
Breathing exhaust fumes in the cabin is never something to ignore. If you notice a strong exhaust smell inside the vehicle, especially when windows are closed, it is safest to limit driving and have the vehicle checked as soon as you reasonably can. Fumes can enter through leaks under the car, damaged seals, or openings in the body, and over time, this may create a health risk for people inside.
If the smell is strong or you feel lightheaded, nauseous, or develop a headache while driving, it is best to park in a safe place, get fresh air, and have the vehicle towed rather than continue driving. Our team can inspect the exhaust system, look for leaks that could be directing gases toward the cabin, and explain what needs to be repaired before it is safe to return to regular use.
How will you tell me what my exhaust or muffler repair will cost?
Cost depends on what we find during the inspection and which parts of the system are affected. After we look over the exhaust and muffler components, we prepare an estimate that outlines the recommended repairs and the parts and labor involved. We go over this estimate with you in clear, simple terms so you understand what is being suggested.
No work begins until you have had a chance to review that estimate and approve it. If there are options, such as repairing only the failed section or addressing additional worn components at the same time, we discuss those choices with you. Our goal is to give you enough information to make a decision that fits your vehicle and your situation, without surprises when it is time to pick up your car.
Can I wait at your shop while you check my exhaust?
In many situations, you can wait at our shop while we inspect your exhaust or muffler. An initial inspection and diagnosis often take a relatively short amount of time, although the exact length can vary based on how easy it is to access certain components and whether we need to track down more than one issue. When you arrive, we can give you an idea of how long the initial check is likely to take.
If repairs are straightforward and parts are available right away, you may choose to remain in our waiting area while the work is completed. For larger jobs or when parts must be sourced, dropping the vehicle off may be more convenient. Our team will talk through the options with you so you can decide what works best for your day and your schedule around town.
How long do exhaust or muffler repairs usually take?
Many exhaust and muffler repairs can be completed within the same day once we have inspected the vehicle and you have approved the estimate. The total time depends on factors such as how extensive the damage is, whether multiple sections of the system need attention, and how quickly required parts are available. Simple repairs on accessible components tend to be faster than work that involves multiple sections or rusted hardware.
During the estimate conversation, our team provides a timeframe based on what your vehicle needs and our current shop schedule. We know you rely on your vehicle for commuting and family life, so we work to give realistic timing and keep you informed of progress, especially if something unexpected is discovered during the repair.
Will you tell me if my older car is not worth a big exhaust repair?
We understand that putting a large amount of money into an older vehicle is a serious decision. When we inspect your exhaust system, we also consider the overall condition of the car, the kind of driving you do, and your goals for how long you hope to keep it. If a repair would be extensive compared to the value or condition of the vehicle, we will explain that clearly so you can weigh your options.
Our team will walk you through what is needed for basic safety and function, and what might be considered additional or preventative work. That way, you can decide whether to proceed with the full repair, choose a more limited approach, or explore other choices. We strive to give honest input rather than pushing for the largest possible job.
What kinds of vehicles can your team work on?
Our shop works on many everyday vehicles that drivers around here rely on. This typically includes passenger cars, small and midsize SUVs, minivans, and light-duty pickup trucks from a wide range of manufacturers. Exhaust layouts and components can vary, but our team is familiar with many common systems found on these vehicles.
If you are unsure whether we can service your particular make or model, you are always welcome to call ahead and ask. We can let you know what to expect and answer any questions before you schedule a visit. Our aim is to make it simple for families and commuters in Chanhassen to get help with muffler repair and other exhaust concerns.
What should I do before bringing my car in for exhaust noise?
You do not need to do anything special before your visit, but a few notes can help us find the problem more quickly. It can be useful to pay attention to when the noise happens, such as only during acceleration, at highway speeds, or when going over bumps. Noting whether you ever smell exhaust, see visible smoke, or notice parts hanging lower than normal also provides helpful clues.
When you arrive, simply share what you have noticed and how long it has been happening. If your vehicle has had recent work under the car, bringing that information can also be helpful. From there, our team will take care of the inspection and explain what we find and what we recommend for repair.
Schedule Exhaust Or Muffler Service Today
Exhaust and muffler issues rarely fix themselves, and waiting often means more noise, more stress, and a greater chance that other parts will be affected. Addressing the problem now can help protect your family from fumes, keep your vehicle running smoothly, and reduce the risk of being surprised by a larger repair later.
Whether you need help with exhaust repair in Chanhassen or you are simply unsure what that new sound means, our team at Christian Brothers Automotive Chanhassen is ready to inspect your vehicle and walk you through your options in clear language. We work to make scheduling simple and visits comfortable so you can get back to your normal routine with confidence.
To set up an appointment or ask questions about your exhaust or muffler, contact us online or call (952) 592-8266.
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FAQs
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Q. "Why is smoke coming out of my exhaust system?"You are able to locate the problem based on the color of the smoke. Take a look at this article to identify the potential issue based on the color.
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Q. "How do I tell if my exhaust system is leaking?"If you are experiencing a rumbling engine noise, a decreased fuel economy, or a vibrating gas pedal, this could be a sign that you have an exhaust system leak.
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Q. "How do I tell if something is wrong with my muffler?"Some common signs of muffler issues include: abnormally loud noise, strong fumes, and loss in fuel economy or power.
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Q. "What is the purpose of my vehicle's muffler?"The muffler is responsible for tuning your engine's noise and helps balance fuel efficiency and power. Some like a louder more powerful car, while others prefer a quiet and efficient drive. It is up to your personal preference what type of muffler is best for you. Click here to learn more.
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Q. "Do you offer a warranty?"As part of our Nice difference.® commitment to providing our customers the best auto service experience possible, we also offer a 3-year/36,000-mile warranty on all the work that we do. We offer this warranty at every Christian Brothers Automotive nationwide, and it will be honored at any location, regardless of which branch did the initial work.
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Q. "What is a Digital Vehicle Inspection?"With a complimentary Digital Vehicle Inspection (DVI) on every visit, you’ll see firsthand photos of your vehicle from under the hood. We’ll let you know if everything is functioning properly or if there are any areas of concern. You can even approve or deny our service recommendations, all straight from your smartphone, or you can, of course, give us a call and we’ll explain our findings in further detail.
Have more Questions?
Our friendly auto service experts have the answers.
Call your local Christian Brothers Automotive car shop today
Hear What Our Customers Had to Say About Us
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"CBA - Chanhassen is the best! Everyone from Mark who owns this center to the people at the frontdesk care about people and their cars. I appreciated the constant updates, resonable prices to the pick and drop service. Wishing CBA ChanHASSEN only the best a"
- sachin