What does it mean if water drips out of my muffler?

Answer by  mikl (139)

This is normal. A complete combustion yields water and CO2 (carbon dioxide). The water is in gas form when it exits the combustion chamber along with the exhaust gasses, but will cool down and condense to liquid and this may be causing your drips. This is also the reason why your exhaust emits water vapor when the engine is cold.

Answer by  jkjk19 (134)

It means absolutely nothing if it is water. It is just condensation coming out of the exhaust. You have nothing to worry about it is absolutely normal. If it is sweet smelling then it is actually coolant and there will be a white smoke. If this is the case then you have a severe problem.

Answer by  NateB (571)

It's most likely just condesation from the temperature differences between the exhaust and the outside air. Make sure it's actually water and not fuel.

Answer by  CELH (298)

If you only drive short distances water builds up in the muffler and causes wear. It is good to go on a long drive at a high speed occasionally.

Answer by  JCW (233)

There is no need to worry. That is caused by condensation due to the metal of the muffler being cold and the exhaust gasses being hot. Once the exhaust system is fully heated it should stop. If it smells sweet like coolant, then you may have a more serious issue.

Answer by  Amber40 (24961)

It is normal for your exhaust system to drip small amounts of moisture from time to time. This just condensed moisture in the cars exhaust condescending on the inside of the exhaust system. However if there is a sweet odor or smoke then there may be an issue with the car and it should be check out by a mechanic.

Answer by  angusf150 (48)

When an auto engine is started, there are 3 components that are heating up. The exhaust manifold, muffler and the exhaust pipe. When these heat up, condensation is formed inside which eventually makes it's way to the end of the exhaust pipe. This is a normal operation.

Answer by  Amber40 (24961)

That is just water vapor condensing in the exhaust pipe when it is cool outside. You shouldn't see it after the exhaust gets hot though.

Answer by  Vaniton (11)

It means your Air conditioner is working , Water is supposed to drop out of your muffler if it is properly working.