Your exhaust system is crucial to the operation of your car’s engine; it not only filters and directs harmful combustion gases away from your vehicle but keeps it quiet so you won’t annoy your neighbors every time you drive past. If you’ve ever wondered how this vital system works, United Auto Parts shares insight. They offer everything from car accessories to engine parts and explain how your vehicle’s muffler and resonator team up to enhance your engine’s performance and protect your ears.

Why Your Exhaust System Needs a Resonator

The names “muffler” and “resonator” indicate some functions of these auto parts. However, while a muffler makes sense as a component that stifles the sound of exiting combustion gases, you might be wondering why you need a part that makes sounds resonate. Allowing sounds to resonate doesn’t just make them louder; it also creates a phenomenon called “phase cancellation.” In a nutshell, phase cancellation occurs when two identical yet out-of-phase frequencies cancel each other out. By allowing phase cancellation, your resonator removes most of the higher frequencies of your engine while the less shrill ones travel through the muffler.

The Great Muffler Compromise

At this point, you might be wondering why you can’t have one muffler that removes all sound frequencies, leaving you with a silent exhaust system. The short answer is a completely muffled engine would adversely affect its performance or even stop it from working. Over the years, engineers have developed muffler and resonator systems that provide the best compromise between performance and comfort. A well-functioning muffler system is what lets your vehicle “purr like a kitten.”

If your exhaust system isn’t as quiet as it should be, you’ll find all the parts you need at United Auto Parts. If you have questions about their car part inventory, call (808) 871-6272. Visit their website to find a location on Maui that’s convenient for you and learn more about their services. Like them on Facebook and follow them on Twitter for car care tips and news from the business.