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.
Common Signs Your Exhaust or Muffler Needs Attention
Exhaust and muffler problems show up in ways that are hard to ignore. The key is knowing which signs call for prompt service and which may require immediate attention. Understanding these symptoms can help you protect your safety and avoid more extensive repairs down the road.
You may need muffler repair or other exhaust service if you notice:
- Loud rumbling or roaring from the rear or underside of the vehicle, especially during acceleration.
- Hissing, popping, or tapping sounds that change with engine speed, which can point to leaks or cracks.
- A strong exhaust or fuel smell inside the cabin, especially with windows closed, which can be a safety concern.
- Rattling or clunking underneath the vehicle is caused by loose brackets, broken hangers, or damaged sections of pipe.
- Visible rust, holes, or a muffler or tailpipe hanging lower than normal.
- Decreased fuel economy or performance that appears without another clear cause.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is It Safe To Keep Driving If My Exhaust Is Loud or Leaking?
It is not always safe to continue driving with a loud or leaking exhaust, and the level of risk depends on what is causing the problem. A small crack or loose clamp may mainly create extra noise at first, but leaks closer to the engine or under the cabin can allow exhaust gases to enter the interior. That can be a health concern for you and your passengers.
If you hear a sudden change in exhaust noise, smell strong fumes inside the vehicle, or see parts hanging low, it is best to have the car checked as soon as you can. Our technicians can inspect the system, explain how serious the issue is, and help you decide whether it is safe to drive short distances or if you should limit use until repairs are made.
How Will You Figure Out What Is Wrong With My Exhaust or Muffler?
We start by listening to what you have noticed, then we perform a visual and mechanical inspection of your exhaust system. Your vehicle is typically placed on a lift so our ASE-certified technicians can check the muffler, pipes, hangers, and connections from front to back. They look for rust, holes, loose joints, and other signs of wear or damage.
If needed, we may run the engine while the vehicle is raised so we can identify where noise or leaks are coming from. When a check engine light is involved, we can also read related codes and see whether emissions components are part of the problem. Once the inspection is complete, we review our findings with you and outline your repair options, along with an estimate.
Can You Tell Me the Cost Before You Start Any Exhaust Repairs?
Yes, our team provides an estimate after we inspect your exhaust system and identify what is causing the issue. Because several different problems can create similar symptoms, it would not be accurate to quote prices before we know which components are affected. The inspection helps us avoid guessing and allows us to be clear with you about what is needed.
After we complete the inspection, we explain what we found, discuss the options available, and present a written estimate. We review this with you in plain language and answer your questions before you decide how to proceed. No exhaust work moves forward until you understand and approve the plan.
How Long Does an Exhaust or Muffler Repair Usually Take?
The time required for an exhaust or muffler repair depends on what we find during inspection and which parts are involved. Some repairs, such as replacing a clamp or hanger, can often be completed the same day, while more extensive work may take longer, especially if specific components need to be ordered. Our team will provide a timing estimate once we know what is required for your vehicle.
We recognize that being without your car can be disruptive. You are welcome to wait in our comfortable lobby if the repair is expected to be brief, or you can take advantage of our shuttle service for longer visits. We keep you updated on progress and work to complete repairs as efficiently as we reasonably can.
What Kind of Warranty Do You Offer on Exhaust and Muffler Work?
Exhaust and muffler repairs performed at Christian Brothers Automotive Vista Ridge are backed by an industry-leading warranty on parts and labor. The exact details can vary based on the parts used and the type of service, and our team will review the applicable warranty terms with you before work begins. This helps you know exactly how you are protected after you leave our shop.
We share this information up front so you can factor it into your decision and feel confident about the repairs. Our goal is to stand behind the work we do and to give you added peace of mind about your exhaust system over the long term.
Can I Combine Exhaust Repairs With Other Services My Car Needs?
In many cases, yes, we can plan exhaust repairs alongside other maintenance or repairs your vehicle needs. Combining services can be a convenient way to reduce the number of visits you have to make and can help you coordinate time away from your car more easily. When you contact us, you can let our team know about any additional concerns or scheduled maintenance that may be approaching.
We will review your vehicle’s needs, consider the time involved for each service, and let you know how they can be grouped in a single appointment. Our goal is to respect your schedule and help you care for your vehicle in a way that fits your daily life.
What Makes Your Shop Different for Exhaust and Muffler Repairs?
Our approach to exhaust and muffler repairs combines technical skill with a strong focus on how you are treated throughout the process. Our ASE-certified technicians use manufacturer-quality equipment to inspect and repair your exhaust system, which supports accurate findings and reliable work. We then take time to explain what we found and what we recommend in terms that you do not need a manual to understand.
Guided by the principle “Love your neighbor as yourself,” we aim to provide honest recommendations that fit your situation instead of pushing unnecessary work. On-site owner and operators add accountability and a personal level of care to every visit. When you include the convenience of our shuttle service, welcoming environment, and strong warranty, you get a repair experience designed to be as straightforward and reassuring as possible.
Schedule Your Exhaust or Muffler Service
If you are noticing new exhaust noise, fumes, or inspection problems, we are ready to help. Scheduling a visit with Christian Brothers Automotive Vista Ridge gives you access to a team that will inspect your vehicle carefully, explain your options clearly, and complete agreed-upon repairs with care.
We work to make the process as convenient as we reasonably can, from friendly check-in and clear estimates to comfortable waiting options and shuttle service. Our exhaust and muffler work is backed by an industry-leading warranty, so you can drive away with confidence.
To schedule your exhaust or muffler service, contact us online or call (512) 364-0024 today.
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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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"I liked the customer service and going above and beyond to make sure I was comfortable while waiting in the store for my vehicle work to be done, specifically being offered a nice hot coffee with creamer."
- J.L.