I'm having trouble starting my vehicle & there is an unusual noise coming from underneath, is it my converter?
Converter may not be the problem. When a customer complains that his or her car has a loss of power, hard starting, noise or sound of air leaking under the vehicle, the usual diagnosis puts the blame on a clogged catalytic converter. Although this may be the case, there are still several other mechanical conditions that can present symptoms similar to a restricted exhaust system.

Before replacing any exhaust system part, particularly a catalytic converter, you must establish that the part has indeed failed. While this is easy when the damaged part is visible, it is extremely difficult when the problem is an internal restriction or blockage. If a converter is replaced because of blockage and the cause of the blockage is not determined, the new converter will also become damaged. Although quick checks, using tools such as exhaust system backpressure testers and pyrometers, help to establish the area of blockage, they do not indicate if the cause of the blockage was an engine or tune-up related malfunction. After the catalytic converter is replaced the vehicle's fuel and ignition systems should be checked.

So what can I do to extend the life of a converter?
Proper maintenance is extremely important. Probably the best way to keep the converter operating properly and under warranty is to ensure that the vehicle is properly tuned. A properly tuned and operated vehicle is critical for long converter life. Otherwise drivers may ruin their converters, void their warranties, and possibly cause engine damage along with higher emissions. So please remember that your converter needs just a little care to last in most cases as long as you own the vehicle.

Exhaust and Emissions
The exhaust system in your car carries poisonous emissions from the engine to the rear of the vehicle. Any leak along the system can be dangerous to your family, friends, and yourself as you ride inside. This is why exhaust is an item of state inspection. At Maxi Muffler, we understand the importance of an exhaust system in good condition, so we provide free exhaust system checks.

Catalytic Converters
A catalytic converter is the most important pollution control device on your vehicle. A vehicle without a catalytic converter or with a malfunctioning unit is harmful to the environment. The converter changes poisonous carbon monoxide into a non-poisonous gas before it goes into the atmosphere. We will check your converter and other emission components at no charge.

All About Waxing & Polishing
Unless you're a professional car detailer with a serious dedication to cotton swabs, or have the time to devote an entire weekend to your vehicle care you may not want to be bothered with the admittedly satisfying but time-consuming job of washing, cleaning and waxing your vehicle. What's the difference between washing, cleaning, polishing and waxing? Just in case you're a teeny bit confused over the terminology that different manufacturers use and the purpose of their products, here's a quick glossary:

Car Wash -- a mild soap solution that dissolves dirt without removing wax -- the first step in the vehicle care chain.

Cleaner/Deoxidizer -- rejuvenates older or very dull finishes by using fine abrasives to remove a thin layer of oxidized paint Polish/Glaze -- the follow-up step to a cleaner, it adds smoothness and depth to a shine. The term "polish" is sometimes used interchangeably with "wax". However, many polishes are designed to only polish, while a wax product is usually only a protective layer.

Polishing/Rubbing Compound -- "Compound" means abrasive. Polishing and rubbing compounds should only be used on heavily oxidized paint and badly weathered surfaces. Because they are abrasive, do not use on clearcoat finishes unless the label specifically states that it is specially formulated for clearcoats. Rubbing compounds are the stronger of the two and can easily remove paint right down to the bare metal. Polishing/Rubbing Compounds are generally applied after the car wash and before the polish and/or wax step.

Wax -- a natural and/or synthetic coating that provides protection and shine -- the final step in caring for your vehicle's finish. The star of natural waxes is Carnauba wax, which comes from Brazilian palm trees, and is the hardest natural wax available. Synthetic waxes are equally as good -- and usually easier to apply -- plus they can contain ingredients to repel dirt and solvents and filter the damaging effects of sunlight.

Sealant -- shines and protects your vehicle's finish much like a wax and can be used instead of one. There are sealants specifically designed for clearcoat finishes.

One-Step Cleaner/Polisher/Wax/Sealant -- this product combines the cleaning and/or polishing step with the wax step in one application. One-step products should be applied after washing your car.

Restoring/Rejuvenating Coatings -- for use on older vehicles, these products work like a combination polish/wax, by removing oxidized paint and tiny scratches and restoring a brilliant shine.