Honda: Honda Muffler and Gasket, honda muffler, honda civic ex

Question
Hi there,

I took my 2-door 1999 Honda Civic EX to the repair shop because I had been hearing a loud noise during acceleration, and basically anytime the car was in gear.  They told me that the muffler and gasket needed to be replaced and quoted me a price of $330.  That just sounded like too much money, so I wanted to check if that is reasonable.  They told me that the labor was only $72 and the parts were what was expensive. I guess my question is, is this reasonable?  Should I get the work done at this place or should I take my car elsewhere?

Thanks so much for your help!

Answer
Hi Rachel,

First point to mention is the fact that you have been told that there are two separate problems. The gasket they are talking about is located in the engine compartment and is called the exhaust manifold gasket, the second is the muffler which you know is in the back of the car. The likelihood of these two things being wrong at the same, slim, unless you've had one problem before and just did not notice it.

I don't like it when a shop tells you that there's something wrong without them specifically telling/showing me what's wrong. Does the muffler have a hole caused by rust? Is there a crack in the pipe? Is there a bolt missing on the exhaust manifold that would cause it to leak?

I would try to look for another place to look at your car. Biggest piece of advice, Find a guy friend (you trust) who knows a lot about cars and bring him with you when you have your car taken a look at (let him do the talking). I hate to tell you that women get taken advantage of because male mechanics assume you know next to nothing about cars.

A mechanic unwilling to answer all of your questions, provides shady answers, unwilling to allow you to see what he thinks is a problem should be avoided. If he wants your business, make him earn it.