Have muffler inspections become a low-priority undercar service in your shop? With the introduction of stainless-steel exhaust systems into the import market, it's easy to forget that muffler and related exhaust parts sales are still a lucrative service that can enhance any profit and loss statement. Muffler replacements can be profitable at any skill or specialty level because they require little tooling and training expense. Better still, all vehicles eventually need a muffler replacement and the sale is usually awarded to the shop that makes the initial recommendation.

Unfortunately for our customers, if the muffler hasn't broken off the exhaust pipe and the external shell doesn't resemble a piece of Swiss cheese, we'll give it a pass. Of course, there's an excuse for our lackadaisical approach to muffler inspections because modern import exhaust systems usually last well past the 100,000-mile mark and are, on the whole, trouble-free. On the other hand, low-speed driving and exposure to salt-laden winter roads can reduce muffler life well below normal expectations. So, if you want to add an extra profit to an undercar service invoice, don't forget that muffler replacements are fast, easy and normally don't interrupt a busy work schedule!

MUFFLER INSPECTIONS
Any serious undercar muffler inspection should go beyond looking at the obvious Swiss-cheese rust perforations. The muffler and exhaust system should be inspec...