American Muffler was recommended to me by TLC next door to install a cat shield. Brett from American Muffler was very easy to work with. I asked him to help me install one for my GX460. He contacted me about when he would get parts and also we scheduled an appointment to get the install done. He was super up front with me about pricing and also gave me a courtesy call to remind me about the install date a couple days in advance. The install was quick, effective, and done perfectly. Brett also told me this was his first Lexus Gx460 install but he's done a lot for other cars like the 4Runner and Priuses. Install went well and image shows it be to be a perfect fit and snug. Thanks Brett and hope to do business with you again! read more

American Muffler - Cat Shield - Auto Parts & Supplies Near Me - San Diego, California

I found American Muffler on Google. I met with Bret the owner and he was very personable. We discussed what my wants and needs were for my 2020 Tahoe and he did not try to upsell me at all. His work is top notch and I am absolutely satisfied with the work. I will recommend him to anyone I know that needs exhaust / muffler work. read more

Brett did an amazing job installing my exhaust on my G550. He was so responses, timely and the quality of his work was exceptional! read more

American Muffler - G550 exhaust - Auto Parts & Supplies Near Me - San Diego, California

Best muffler shop in town. This shop has been customizing my trucks and my nephews trucks for well over a decade. Broke my tailpipe the other day and gave Brett a ring. He locked me in the next morning and did me right. Check the hours on the website, listen to the message on the answering machine, and bring your ride in for excellent service and the most competitive pricing. Brett is the truth! read more

Brett, the owner of American Muffler, is just brilliant at designing, fabricating and installing custom exhaust systems as well as tackling the usual muffler repairs! I brought my 2024 MINI Cooper Countryman in last week for an extensive exhaust system do-over. I admit that I first tried my hand at installing a box set of exhaust components at home - I completely botched the whole thing up...it was definitely a Frankenstein result. Swallowing my pride, I placed a call and he got me in just a few days later and spent that morning working on fabricating and installing a whole new exhaust system (with muffler delete). He has such a keen eye for what will work and what won't...he thinks through all of the geometry and then starts to piece everything together. It was a real pleasure watching a master craftsman at work! All I can say, is that Brett pretty much pulled off a minor miracle and really saved the day. The exhaust system is a work-of-art and absolutely sounds awesome! I couldn't be happier, plus he is a super nice guy and has a ton of stories...it was fun hanging out at the shop! Casey M. read more

Excellent service from American Muffler. Brett was so helpful and able to get my service work completed quickly same day I scheduled to bring in my Jeep. When I called ahead of time to explain the work I needed I was immediately quoted a very competitive estimate. Quality part and repair work performed. Brett was personable and knowledgeable and gave great advice. Very responsive communication via phone calls and emails. Would highly recommend. read more

Doesn't answer. Never at the shop. Maybe they're permanently shut down? Have tried calling and stopping by multiple times. Taking my business elsewhere. read more

I have been coming here since 2006 with my first mustang, a 98 GT. Took my 2014 GT here and most recently had work done on my 14 GT500. I came in with a Magnaflow competition exhaust that had no mufflers and needed to be toned down and eliminate it's rasp. American muffler did a very clean install on a pair of 12" Vibrant resonators with new piping. I increased the diameter to 3". Everything came out very well and turnaround time was good. I have a pet peeve with exhaust tips in bumper valences not being even or straight. The car had them nice and even on each side when I picked it up. This guy is good and cares about the quality. read more

See all

I can now drive my new to me truck and keep my sanity. Bought a used truck that the last owner put a freaking flowmaster on which droned like the last owner's in laws, no idea why anyone would want that. Brett fixed my exhaust right up and it's quieter than stock! 10/10 Brett is the man! read more

By far the best place to go for aftermarket exhaust for your car or truck. I've been going to Ed Hansen's for many years, but when Ed sold the business, I needed to find a mom and pop place that does great work. Bret's American Muffler is the place. His prices are affordable, one guy does it all. The weld work is awesome, attention to detail is phenomenal, and since I'm pretty much OCD on all my car and truck work, this guy does great work. I'd bring all my cars here from now on. See my pics of his work. read more

See all

Brett did exactly what I was looking for. I wanted catback exhaust system installed on Gen 1Lexus IS 300. I knew that there were be potential install fitting issues even though it look like straight forward bolt-on install. Decided to go a muffler specialist. So glad I didn't even mess with the install. Brett called and notified me about the issues. I reviewed it with him and approved for him to do custom cutting and welding to get exhaust installed properly. He was done in two hours and I left parking lot smiling hearing that growling sound!! read more

Long story short, my trusted mechanic for over 5 years tried overcharging me ($700+), and misdiagnosed why my car failed smog. I was about to give up and just change the catalytic converter. I reached out to Brett for advise/ an estimate. His advise was simple, complete the catalyst drive cycle first. If I NEED a new cat, he'll be happy to do the work. I listened to Brett and followed his advise to clear/ complete it. I then got my car smogged. It passed. =) Money spent on smog related repairs after speaking with Brett- $0. Yes, I am super happy about the result. This guy is knowledgeable, modest and he cares about his customers/ people. I'd recommend him any day and will go back to him for service. THANK YOU!!! read more

I was looking to get a borla axle-back exhaust installed. Local Meineke quoted me $400-500 for 3 hours of work. I went to American Muffler and Brett gave me a range of how much I should expect to pay. He came through with the install in less time and I paid a fairer price for the job. Also came back a week later to replace my stock resonator with a Vibrant Performance resonator. Quick install time and good price. If you are looking to get any type of exhaust work done, I suggest going to a specialized shop such as American Muffler and they will take care of you. read more

Brett has always been super helpful with any issues I have had with multiple of my vehicles. Both 2013 Mazda 3 and 2003 Tacoma he has been able to help diagnosis. read more

Wanted to post an updated review for these guys. Years back they did a custom exhaust for my Cadillac and the work was top notch. (See previous review) i got a new car and purchased a full catback exhaust system. Called down and talked to Bret and he was super helpful. Came down and he is a perfectionist at what he does. I thought everything was lined up and looked straight but he wanted to make sure both sides were even. We all know aftermarket exhausts are never perfect. Once again tho the work is top notch and i will continue to do business with these folks as long as i can. Thanks Bret. read more

American Muffler - Excuse the dirty car it's been raining. But excellent work. - Auto Parts & Supplies Near Me - San Diego, California

See all

They know what they are doing. I took my old MB in and they fixed it, no problem and very reasonable. Other places had no idea what was wrong. read more

So far this place is the best in town. Bret is the man to talk to, when you need to get your exhaust system done right. I am completely satisfied when he installed the aftermarket parts on my 2018 Dodge Charger. He ha done a fantastic job!!! Thank You again Bret. Not only will I look forward to conducting business with Bret again but I look forward into stopping by every now and then, to hang out a bit, maybe bring him a 6-pack (to bring home)...In other words, I have much respect for what he does in his long history in that shop, that not only will I notice him as a professional, but as a new and down to earth friend. read more

Small shop producing big, quality work. If you call and don't get an answer it's literally cause the guy is under a vehicle doing work! After a few weeks, I was able to get Brett on the phone and the work was worth the wait. No doubt the best in the area and he was able to do it fast, affordable, and with lasting quality. Definitely recommend for any exhaust job. Had a failed cat and a nasty exhaust leak. Car runs and sounds great once more! Thanks Brett! read more

These guys are awesome. I wanted a very specific muffler/set up for my BMW 330i ZHP. We couldn't find a pre made tip or muffler that looked like what I wanted, so Bret custom made me a tip. I was a little nervous at first, being that i'm very particular about what goes on my car. The tip he made was perfect, even better than I had envisioned. They had me right next to the car during the install, so they asked me exactly what and how I wanted the tips to fit. It ended up looking and sounding like a $1000+ custom cat back kit. I couldn't be happier. Thanks American Muffler! read more

American Muffler - Check out that fitment! Tips fit into the stock bumper cut-out. - Auto Parts & Supplies Near Me - San Diego, California

See all

That smile on my face is because of My Man Brett! Got bit by the bug . I was not sure how to go about making my 14 IS350 Fsport sound good and fun? Within minutes Brett not only listened but delivered! Installed an AFE TAKEDA intake and custom built a sweet exhaust setup. Windows down and off the Mark Levinson. I've never had so much fun just listening to that smooth idle all the way to that red line howl. Off to the next Mod! read more

I would like to thank the owner of American Muffler! Bret, thank you for your expertise and getting my exhaust system repaired and back up and running. Not only did he deliver but at a reasonable price. Thanks again read more

Brett had a look at my 89 Bronco and quoted me a fair price to replace my exhaust system from CC-back with no-frills components. I Just picked up my truck, it went from being a sluggish 302 with a smelly exhaust leak to a now snappy happy 302. No BS service, fair price and a great result. Thanks Brett at AmericanMuffler read more

If you are trying to get in contact with American Muffler, good luck.Tried calling multiple times throughout the day and week but no luck; he never picks up the phone! read more

I am very happy with the service here. They designed the perfect sound and look for my 67 GTO. The price was right. I highly recommend. read more

American Muffler - Auto Parts & Supplies Near Me - San Diego, California

Brett just spent the last 30 minutes on the phone with me walking me through every aspect of my potentially bad Cat. He gave me every option known to him and patiently answered every question. I highly recommend him for anyone (especially a woman calling a garage) looking for an honest mechanic. read more

Had a catback installed on my f150, great service and fairly priced. Will be coming back for any future exhaust needs!

Great service and expertise from Brett, who took care of my 1999 MB needing a new catalytic converter. Chose his shop on the basis of excellent reviews on yelp, and offer him up 5 stars for his work on my car. On top of his great skill he is a very nice guy. Highly recommend American Muffler! read more

I went here to get a catalytic converter some months ago. When I first asked him about how much they cost, he was quoting me outrageous prices ($600 - $1000) for catalytic converters saying that they had be California legal, but he confirmed that my Cat needed to be changed. He also told me that my EGR valve was coding as well. So I went online and started looking for a catalytic converter. I went on magnaflow's website and put in my car's specs and they came up with a Cat that would fit my car (a 1999 Pontiac Firebird, V6) for about $160 (model number 46006) that was legal for California. Since the owner was so nice about everything the first time I went in, I decided to take the Cat to him and have it put on (my registration was already passed due). When I got there, he was all grim about the Cat I showed him, and said that he needed to check to make sure it was legal to have put on my car. He took the Cat into his office and came out saying that he could not find that part number in his book of approved Cats for my car. I told him that I looked it up online and that it said it was legal for California, and that they even shipped it to me (which they wont unless it is legal for California). He said that it was possible that they updated the index of approved Cats or that it is possible that I made a mistake about the Cat being approved for my particular sized engine. He asked me how much I paid for it and said he would look to see if he could come close to the price. He came back and said that he found one and that it would be $250, total $350 installed. Since I didn't want to drive the car around any longer than I had to I told him to put it in. After the install, he told me that the Cat I had installed in my car was the same model number that I had brought in. He even put on the receipt that it had the wrong Cat installed. After all was said and done I got my car smog certificate and registration. I tried to return the Cat, but with the restocking fee and shipping fee, I would have gotten back half of what I paid for it. So I got curious and went to https://ssl.arb.ca.gov which is the California EPA's Air resources board website and ran a search for legal after-market catalytic converters based on my car. Lo' and behold I find that exact Magnaflow Cat (46006) as a legal and compatible Cat for my car. Bret, the owner, was very helpful, so I gave him the benefit of the doubt that maybe his book wasn't updated. So I looked at the Cat that Bret had installed on my car (A Tenneco Model 81909) and found that on the same list as the magnaflow 46006 that I purchased. Apparently, California has to specifically approve after-market Cats as per an Executive order. The Executive order that approved my Magnaflow 46006 was Executive Order D-193-89 (signed December 28, 2009). The Tenneco model 81909 that he put on was approved by Executive Order D-182-45 (Signed March 27, 2009). I had my Cat installed at his shop in May, 2013. He even said that he had another guy look up the part on his iPad and he said that my Magnaflow was not the proper Cat for my car. So, for this review, I give him one star (more than the mandatory 1 star) because he was a nice guy, but I don't like being lied to. No way that whatever database he was looking at was 9 months older than the Executive order approving my Cat (which is already 3+ years old). And I also find it amazing and strange that he managed to find an aftermarket Cat for $250 on the spot (and markedly less than the $600-$1000 he originally quoted me). Now I'm stuck with a perfectly good and LEGAL Magnaflow 46006 that I have been trying (unsuccessfully) to sell online. I expect mechanics to use reasonable diligence when they are looking up catalytic converters. So if you are looking to get jerked around and priced-gouged, then this is the place for you. My advice is; BEFORE you go into a muffler shop to get a catalytic converter DO YOUR RESEARCH. If you buy an aftermarket catalytic converter, BRING THE EXECUTIVE ORDER authorizing its use in California. And if you bring one to Bret, show it to him, and then crumple it up and throw it in his face, for me. :-) read more

Ive purchased a few mufflers from these guys over the years. Not sure if its the same owners or not but the products that they sell are good quality and they lasted a while. Affordable prices on labor and it never took that long to get work done. Check them out if you need a muffler. read more

Very fair prices and excellent work. Dropped off my car and it was ready to be picked up shortly after. Brett is awesome!

The poor rating is not due to their work - I have not seen it - but read the great reviews and decided to give them a call for a quote to install my headers and run a custom exhaust system for my muscle car. I tried calling multiple times over several weeks (I am not in much of a hurry to install as it won't be cheap) and phone is either busy or no one answers during business hours. I even left a message on their answering machine with call back number and a description of the work I was looking to have done - no call back. Sorry, I won't be calling back again. read more

Andy is awesome. Drove up, told him I wanted my car to sound a little more like an AMG than a Lexus. He suggested muffler delete, not some elaborate, expensive system. An hour later, drove off happy with a very smooth sounding V8 roar. Thanks for being open on Sunday! read more

Had an awesome experience here. I wanted to do a muffler delete and Andy knew exactly how to handle it. From the time my car was on the lift to the finished product it maybe took about 30 min. The bends and welds look good and he made the exhaust look like how it should have came from the factory! It also sounds exactly how I wanted it. Not too loud and not too quiet. I definitely recommend calling him in advanced and scheduling an appointment. It's a one man show and he gets busy but will get the work done. Thanks again, Andy! read more

American Muffler - Muffler delete, custom tips, and blacked out piping - Auto Parts & Supplies Near Me - San Diego, California

Brett and his team are tops! No hassle making an appointment on a Friday afternoon and when I showed up they were ready for me. Granted, I had a simple job but from what I can tell by their skill and professionalism these guys can handle any exhaust project big or small. Bonus: they are "stance car" friendly! read more

American Muffler - Just made it by a few inches :) - Auto Parts & Supplies Near Me - San Diego, California

My friend told me about this place, he loves his Audi! So I knew if he was cool with them I would be as well. Came through, Andy hooked it up! Got a FlowMaster with re-piping on my F-150 and it sounds nice! Got a nice chrome tip to go with it and looks like a very clean job. Would definetly recommend them for you muffler needs. read more

American Muffler - FlowMaster sounds mean! - Auto Parts & Supplies Near Me - San Diego, California

See all

First off I was told a needed a new Catalytic Converter by a Smog Check Guy. American Muffler came up as recommended so I called them. Very personable and the price was much better than I had feared... Fast forward to the prompt appointment; When I got there they looked at my Smog Check numbers and both agreed that I was indeed NOT in need of a CC. They gave me some simple pointers on what I needed to do to Pass a retest; i.e.. oil change, upgrade gas, warm up engine,.. I PASSED and with numbers that astounded the Smog Check Guy. Needless to say I recommend American Muffler without hesitation. They were willing to pass up a job because they new their stuff and are obviously Honest Guys. You Rock Am Muffler! Tedd read more

i came to these guys expecting to spend 600 on a new exhaust system for my v6 Ford mustang. These guys were honest with me about what i wanted to do. I wanted dual exhaust with a v8 sound. And I'm only a single exhaust. instead of trying to sell me a dual exhaust, they were straight forward and told me i would fail smogs with dual, and that I wouldn't get that V8 sound I wanted. So I stuck with single like they recommended. They installed a new muffler system. flowmaster kit for 220. When I was there, I saw at least 2 or 3 people show up with either damaged mufflers or failed smogged tests needing to be fixed. So they could get busy one hour, then the next be dead. Just to be sure, schedule an appointment with them. So they installed the exhaust in 50 yminutes. Fast, straightforward, down to earth cool guys. Thanks Andy! read more

Guys did a great job on my Jaguar XJL. They are competent, knowledge and are perfectionist. read more

American Muffler - Auto Parts & Supplies Near Me - San Diego, California

Like all the other people say. Don't let the look fool u. Andy is pro and knows what he is doing. I took my bmw 328i. In for a muffler delete he finish it professionally. With a sexy tip. And I had some break caliper he was nice enough to go to other shop and borrow a jack for me and tools. Super nice person and great price. read more

American Muffler - Getting a muffler delete - Auto Parts & Supplies Near Me - San Diego, California

Brett (the owner and sole employee) is honest and hardworking. You can tell immediately from talking with him. As such, I'm sure that many incoming phone calls are not answered immediately but he always returned my calls with prompt answers. He replaced my catalytic converter for significantly less than the dealer would have charged and much more quickly as well. He didn't try to upsell me anything unnecessary and everything was on-time. I'm glad to see this kind of hardworking small business competing successfully with the larger enterprises because of his hard work. Thanks Brett! read more