How Much Is a Muffler? Prices, What Affects Them, and How to Save

For most cars in the U.S., a replacement muffler costs about $75–$450 for the part, and $250–$900 installed at a shop. Prices climb for trucks, luxury or performance models, stainless-steel or custom systems, and vehicles with heavy rust, where totals can reach $700–$1,500+. Below is a clear breakdown of typical ranges, what drives the cost up or down, and how to get a solid estimate.

Typical Price Ranges (USD)

The figures below reflect common street prices at independent shops and national chains; dealership quotes and regional labor rates can push these higher.

• Parts only — Economy/universal muffler (aluminized steel): $75–$150
• Parts only — Direct-fit OEM-style muffler: $150–$450
• Parts only — Performance or stainless-steel muffler (e.g., MagnaFlow, Borla, Flowmaster): $300–$1,000+
• Installed total — Compact/economy cars: $250–$600
• Installed total — Crossovers/SUVs/light trucks: $400–$900
• Installed total — Luxury/performance, complex or rusted systems: $700–$1,500+

Expect the low end if the muffler bolts in and nearby hardware is healthy; expect the high end if welding, fabrication, or additional exhaust parts are needed.

What Drives the Price

Several factors influence whether your muffler job lands near the low, middle, or high end of the range.

• Vehicle make/model: German luxury brands and some SUVs use integrated muffler/resonator assemblies that cost more.
• Muffler type and material: Stainless lasts longer (and costs more) than aluminized steel; performance designs add cost for sound and flow.
• Welded vs. bolt-on: Bolt-on direct-fit units cut labor time; universal/welded installs add fabrication time.
• Rust/corrosion: Seized clamps and crumbling pipes can require extra pipe, hangers, or resonators.
• Additional parts: New gaskets, clamps, hangers, and tailpipes can add $20–$300 to the job.
• Labor rates and time: Shops commonly charge $90–$180/hour; typical time is 0.5–2.0 hours, more if fabricating.
• Emissions layout: Components placed close to catalytic converters or sensors may add complexity.
• Aftermarket vs. OEM: Quality aftermarket can save money; factory parts often cost more but may match sound exactly.
• Availability: Backorders or specialty parts can raise costs and lead times.

In short, the vehicle platform and condition under the car usually matter as much as the muffler you choose.

Signs You Might Need a New Muffler

Not every loud exhaust needs a new muffler; sometimes piping or a resonator is the culprit. Watch for these symptoms that point to the muffler itself.

• Deeper, louder rumble or drone that wasn’t there before
• Visible holes, flaking rust, or splits at seams on the muffler can
• Exhaust smell in or around the cabin (potential leak near the rear)
• Rattling from loose internal baffles
• Inspection failure for exhaust noise or leaks
• Noticeable drop in fuel economy along with noise increase
• Muffler or tailpipe hanging low or separated from hangers

A quick undercar inspection can confirm if the muffler is the source or if another section of the exhaust needs attention.

Cost Add-ons You Might See on an Invoice

Beyond the muffler and labor, small items and related repairs are common and can change the bottom line.

• Hangers, clamps, and gaskets: $10–$60
• New pipe section or adapter: $50–$250
• Resonator replacement (if combined with muffler): $100–$400 parts
• Exhaust tip (optional): $20–$150
• Shop supplies/environmental fee: $10–$35 or 5%–12% of labor
• Sales tax and disposal fees: Varies by state

These items aren’t always needed, but they’re common on older or rust-belt vehicles and should be part of a realistic estimate.

How to Save Money Without Sacrificing Quality

You can often keep costs in check while getting a durable, correct-sounding repair.

• Ask for a quality aftermarket equivalent to OEM for value without major sound changes.
• Choose aluminized steel in dry climates; opt for stainless if you drive in snow/salt.
• Prefer direct-fit, bolt-on parts to reduce labor time and future service hassles.
• Avoid ultra-cheap universal cans if you care about exact fitment and cabin noise.
• Get two or three quotes and compare line items (parts, labor hours, fees).
• Check warranties: Many mufflers carry multi-year or lifetime corrosion coverage.
• Bundle related exhaust work (clamps/hangers) to save on repeat labor.
• DIY only if you have safe lift access and welding or exhaust-fit experience; poor sealing can cause fumes or drone.
• Consider mobile exhaust services for small savings and convenience in some areas.

Balanced choices—fit, material, and shop—usually deliver the best value and longevity for the money.

Getting an Accurate Estimate

Clear information helps shops quote precisely and avoid mid-job surprises.

1. Photograph the muffler, tailpipe, and any rusty sections; note your VIN and mileage.
2. Decide on sound: OEM-quiet, slightly deeper, or performance note.
3. Request a line-item estimate (parts, labor hours, supplies/fees, taxes).
4. Ask whether the job is clamp-on or welded and why.
5. Confirm parts and labor warranties and expected turnaround time.
6. Authorize inspection time if rust is severe and ask how findings could change cost.
7. Clarify it’s the muffler—not the catalytic converter—being quoted; cats are far pricier.

With the right details, most shops can give a reliable range over the phone and a firm price after inspection.

Muffler vs. Catalytic Converter vs. Full Exhaust

It’s easy to mix these up. A catalytic converter typically costs $800–$2,500+ installed due to precious metals and emissions rules. A cat-back system (muffler, resonator, and piping behind the cat) can run $400–$1,500+ for parts alone, depending on brand and material. A full performance system with headers can reach $1,000–$3,000+ before labor.

Summary

Expect to pay $75–$450 for a muffler and $250–$900 installed for most vehicles, with luxury, performance, stainless, or rust-heavy jobs reaching $700–$1,500+. Vehicle type, material, rust, and labor determine where you’ll land. Get line-item quotes, match material to your climate, and choose direct-fit parts when possible to get the best balance of cost, sound, and durability.

How much does it cost to replace a muffler?

The average cost to replace a muffler typically ranges from $100 to $300, including parts and labor. However, this cost can vary based on several factors:

Is replacing a muffler easy?

You can take your car to a muffler shop for a replacement, but installing a new muffler yourself is fairly easily and cost-efficient. To complete your muffler installation, you’ll need a jack to lift up your car, a wrench, different sized ratchets, lubricant, and possibly a hacksaw.

Can I drive with a bad muffler?

Can I drive with a bad muffler? You can drive with a bad muffler, but it’s not recommended. A damaged muffler can reduce your car’s fuel efficiency and performance and can also increase harmful emissions. Additionally, driving with a loud exhaust noise can also be a violation of noise pollution laws in some areas.

How much does it cost to replace a new muffler?

Average Cost of Muffler Replacement
Generally, an aftermarket muffler may cost between $50 and $400, although there are plenty of instances where the muffler can be much higher in price. Original equipment (OE) replacement mufflers may cost significantly more – up to $1,000 or more.