I was leaving the store the other day and noticed my car was running extremely loud. I checked under the car and noticed my tail pipe + muffler was hanging and not connected to the rest of the car.

I took it off the rubber hangers so it wasn't bouncing around.

I am a nerdy computer tech, I have no knowledge about automotives. The muffler is connected to the tail pipe, so no muffler means no tailpipe. Is this safe to drive? I am terrified of getting exposed to carbon monoxide. I am hoping to get a new muffler installed by the Honda dealership sometime this week.

I have uploaded a picture of my broken off muffler and a diagram of which I have circled the matching part(s) to the best of my knowledge



Example. Circled is what seems to have broke off

 

I wouldn't sit long in traffic, as the carbon monoxide could leak into the cab. But, if you're taking shorter trips that are continual movement, you should be fine for the short term. You are right, though... you do need to get a replacement.

 

You'll be fine. I drove my 2005 Civic for years with no muffler, 2 months of that with no exhaust pipe at all. I am still alive, and no damage was done to the car If you are really worried about carbon monoxide, just roll the windows down a couple of inches to get fresh air in. Also, the muffler is an easy part to change if you have basic hand tools. It is just 2 bolts and 2 rubber hangers holding it on. Watch some Youtube videos if you are unsure on how to change it. Rock Auto and Amazon has them cheap.