Mazda Muffler: Increased Performance Style, Less Engine Noise

Anthony Fontanelle
October 2, 2007

A Mazda car lets someone enjoy the best performance at an affordable price. With a car like this, no one could ask for more. But to be able to continuously enjoy the best out of a Mazda car, one has to know how to properly take care of all its parts, including the Mazda mufflers.

The exhaust gases from an internal-combustion engine are released directly into the atmosphere, creating a loud noise. This is caused by the passage of the exhaust gases from the high pressure of the cylinder to the normal pressure of the atmosphere. To eliminate or tone down the noise, the gases are led through a pipe to a muffler. Typically installed along the exhaust pipe as part of the engine's exhaust system, a Mazda muffler consists of several tubes with holes in them. These tubes are designed to create reflected waves that interfere with each other or cancel each other out. The exhaust gases and the sound waves enter through the center tube. They bounce off the back wall of the muffler and are reflected through a hole into the main body of the muffler. They pass through a set of holes into another chamber, where they turn and go out of the last pipe and leave the muffler. This time, the noise is reduced.

There are two main types of Mazda muffler design. One type uses several baffled chambers to reduce noise. The other type sends the gases straight through perforated pipe wrapped in metal or fiberglass. It is designed to reduce back pressure and, consequently, slightly makes more noise because the gases produce much less restriction.

Since a Mazda muffler is located on the undercarriage, it is often neglected and can rust or rot over time. Some mufflers even fall off the vehicle. It is therefore recommended to inspect a muffler from time to time to make sure it is in good condition and is securely clamped. A rotted or damaged muffler needs to be replaced immediately since it can keep a car from passing state-required smog tests.

Source:  Amazines.com