Depending on your car and its exhaust system, the cost to make repairs to a damaged or broken exhaust component can range widely – but putting off an exhaust repair almost always costs more than addressing them promptly.

Because your exhaust system does more than just keep your car quiet – it also routes exhaust fumes away from the cabin, helps your engine run properly and maintain optimum fuel efficiency, and reduces polluting emissions.

Here are some useful things to know if you suspect your vehicle may need muffler or exhaust system repairs:

The catalytic converter is one of the highest priced exhaust system parts and, in some vehicles such as SUVs and trucks, it may be prone to theft by scrap metal thieves.

If your catalytic converter has been stolen, you’ll immediately notice a loud sound and altered vehicle performance upon startup.

An intact but failing catalytic converter may sound like someone shaking a box of rocks when your vehicle is idling when parked or stopped in traffic. If you notice any of these issues, schedule an appointment for the muffler shop right away.