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Loud or unusual exhaust noise

An exhaust that got louder overnight is nearly always a leak. The question that decides the price is where: a weld on a rear section and a cracked manifold are not the same bill.

Free · No obligation

  1. 1Describe the repair
  2. 2We look for garages
  3. 3Compare the offers

Common symptoms

  • The noise is louder when cold, or constant.
  • You hear a metallic rattle under the floor while driving.
  • An exhaust smell gets into the cabin.
  • The check engine light came on at the same time.

You do not need to know which one applies: describe what you notice and the garage will do the diagnosis.

What changes the price

We do not publish an average price: we do not yet have enough real data to give an honest one. Here is what makes up the bill instead.

Corrosion of a section or the muffler
In provinces that salt the roads this is the dominant cause. A single section can often be replaced rather than the whole system.
A gasket or a flange
A leak at a joint makes a lot of noise for a modest repair. Worth checking before agreeing to a full replacement.
A broken mount
A snapped hanger lets the pipe knock against the floor. The noise is a rattle rather than a roar.
The catalytic converter
A failing converter can rattle internally and light the check engine light. It is the most expensive part in the system: ask for confirmation before agreeing to it.

When an inspection is needed

Several different problems can cause this symptom. A garage will most likely need to inspect the vehicle to identify the cause — this page helps you describe what you notice, it does not replace a diagnosis.

How it works

  1. 1

    Tell us what your vehicle needs

    One request, a few minutes.

  2. 2

    We look for garages able to perform the work

    We contact garages in your area.

  3. 3

    Compare the offers you receive

    Price and availability, side by side.

  4. 4

    Choose the option you prefer

    You are free to walk away.

Common questions

Can I keep driving?

That depends entirely on the cause, which is exactly what this page cannot determine. A noise accompanied by reduced braking, a flashing warning light or unstable handling is a reason to have the vehicle checked without waiting.

Should I pick a specific repair in the form?

No, and it is better not to. Describe the symptom and leave the category broad: garages then see what you actually observe rather than a part you have guessed at. Asking for the wrong part is the most common way to pay for nothing.

Is the diagnosis charged for?

Usually yes: it is technician time. Some garages deduct it from the repair if they carry it out. It is one of the things worth comparing between offers.

Describe what you notice — the noise, when it happens, anything else you have spotted. We pass your description to garages in your area and you compare what they come back with.

What we don't promise

We don't guarantee a number of offers, a response time, or a saving. We pass your request to garages and show you what they say. If nothing comes back, we'll tell you.

Ready to compare options for your repair?

Describe the repair your vehicle needs. It only takes a few minutes.

Free · No obligation