Your car’s exhaust may seem like a simple pipe leading from the engine to its rear, but it’s a complex system. As emissions tests and noise regulation have changed the industry, exhaust systems have become more difficult.
Catalytic converters were developed to reduce harmful gases and pollutants. Resonators were also added to control the noise from vehicle exhaust systems.
The sole purpose of a resonator is to reduce the decibel level before it reaches a vehicle muffler. How is a resonator designed? What makes it different from a muffler or exhaust? Why would you want one? Drive’s crack information team is here to answer these questions. So, let’s get started.
What is the purpose of a resonator on a car?
Your vehicle’s engine makes a lot of noise while running. Resonators modulate the sound so that a muffler can mute it. The resonator is an echo chamber where engineers worked hard to create a space to change the exhaust sound so that the powertrain can generate as much power without making children cry.
What is the difference between a Resonator and Muffler?
Mufflers lower the volume. The damper and resonator of your vehicle work together to produce a pleasant sound.
Do I need a resonator for my exhaust?
Yes, in most cases. A resonator is needed to control the sound coming from your exhaust system. This will prevent it from becoming too loud. You can still drive your vehicle without a resonance, but it may have a check engine or other problems. If part of the exhaust system is missing, your car could fail its annual emission inspection.
How to Change Your Resonator?
Some of you may not follow the law and want to shake dishes off your cabinets when you cold-start them. We’re talking about flat-brim baseball caps. Many of you want to check or fix your vehicle. Understanding what your vehicle’s resonator should sound like is essential to identifying problems. It’s generally a good idea for you to have your vehicle’s resonator replaced or checked when:
- Performance decreases. Your vehicle’s fuel economy and performance have started to decline.
- Check engine light is on. This could be anything, from a loose cap to a catastrophic engine failure. But it is a good indication that something is wrong.
- You hear a strange noise coming from your car. Your vehicle’s noise will change if your resonator is damaged or fails.
- The engine will not start or stall. The vehicle will not start. This is the most extreme of the resonator symptoms.
- You smell an unnatural odor. Your vehicle’s resonator could leak and release fumes that are not only unpleasant but also potentially dangerous.
Exhaust Resonator Security
- If you want to do the exhaust repair yourself, here are some things to consider:
- To prevent exhaust gas build-up in your garage or work area, ensure you work in a well-ventilated area.
- Remember that the underside of your vehicle will be very hot if running for a long time.
- You can replace your exhaust resonator rather than trying to upgrade with straight pipes or other “performance” setups. You will have a loud vehicle, and only some people will be impressed. We are here to help.
- Do not ignore any sound, smell, or performance problems. You’re unlikely to die from an exhaust resonator explosion, but you do not want your car to be plagued by unexpected maintenance problems.