How to Replace the Muffler on a Pontiac Grand Am

The Pontiac Grand Am is a popular mid size car that's still economical to own, drive and maintain. The muffler, however, may eventually need replaced, if it gets holes, breaks or falls off. You can replace the muffler yourself and doesn't cost a lot of money.

Things You'll Need

  • New or used muffler
  • Jack stands or blanket
  • Wrench
  • Hack saw
  • Sledge hammer
  • Trash bag
  • Check to see if you need a new muffler on your Pontiac Grand AM by looking under the car towards the back. Visually check for holes in the muffler or determine if it has fallen off. Check for rotted spot welds and seams and inspect the hangers to see if they're loose.

  • Purchase a muffler made with a 2.25-inch center inlet/outlet, is 4 inches thick x 9.75 inches wide and has a 13-inch case length made from aluminized steel. Buy the muffler that correctly corresponds with the year of your Grand Am.

  • Place an old blanket or a large piece of cardboard on the ground beneath the rear of the Grand Am. You can put the rear part of the car onto jack stands, if desired, to make the job easier.

  • Remove the old muffler. Loosen any bolts around the muffler with a wrench and take the muffler off. If the muffler is welded on, then you can break it away by knocking it with a sledge hammer or sawing it off with a hacksaw. Dispose of the old muffler properly by breaking it down into small parts. Put the small parts in a trash bag and throw them away.

  • Install the new muffler on your Pontiac Grand Am. Line it up straight with the clamps and then tighten the bolts to hold it in place. The bolts should not be too tight because the muffler needs to move slightly to prevent damage. Don't put it on too loosely or it may fall off.

  • Start the engine and check the new muffler for any leaks or loud sounds. If there are leaks or loud sounds, then you may need to tighten the clamps more. Read the muffler installation instructions to answer any other questions you may have.