My 2010 KIA Ceed has a 1.4L 90HP engine and a 5 speed manual. It recently passed 150 K km. or 90K miles. I replaced the muffler 3 months ago. One month ago I noticed a humming noise. I did a 4 wheel alignment and checked the wheel bearings as well as the transmission fluid. The muffler shop inspected the muffler on a lift but they did not drive the vehicle. I am almost positive it is the muffler because the humming occurs at a very specific vehicle speed. I joke that the muffler is telling me that I am getting closer to upshifting. The muffler has a 2 year warranty but in the meantime will this humming lower fuel economy? Is this something I should address right away? When I return to the muffler shop next time I will insist the mechanic drives the vehicle. Many thanks to anyone who answers this question?
Though the humming could have a number of different causes, I have experienced similar buzzing/humming noises caused by a slightly loose exhaust/cat heat shield - something that could very likely be disturbed when replacing a muffler.