I've noticed a strange rattling sound coming from my 96 DX hatchback (automatic). It usually is most noticeable when I've just started it, and gotten up to 30-40 MPH, while it's accellerating. But I can also hear it occasionally during normal highway driving. My brother suggested it may be rust in the muffler?
If so, is it anything to worry about/what do I need to do to fix it?
Or, if not, then what the heck is it?

Thanks for the help.
John

 

Check underneath the car for any loose heatshields. Thats most likely what it is.

 

Mine had a similar noise when I bought it. And I discovered the inlet pipe to the muffler had rusted completely, causing the exhaust pipe to sway and squeak with each bump and whatnot. You should also notice a deeper exhaust note if the muffler's coming apart though.

Check the heat shields, exhaust and muffler hangers, and also check to see if the gas tank mounting straps are secure.

Good luck.

 

I think everyone has this problem sooner or later, what ^he said,its most likly heat shields, exhaust and muffler hangers. I had it too, just get someone to shake your muffler from the exhaust wile you look under the car and see when the sound it coming from. I just had to bend the heatshield back.