Problems With the Catalytic Converter

You will know if your automobile is having problems with the catalytic converter. You can expect these problems to start after you have driven the vehicle for 100,000 miles. In terms of time, this means the catalytic converter will last approximately 10 years. If you are having any of the following issues, your catalytic converter is malfunctioning and needs to be replaced.

The catalytic converter will start to malfunction when it gets clogged. Sulfur and carbon buildup inside of the catalytic converter as it treats the exhaust. Once the catalytic converter is clogged, the exhaust may be unable to flow through it. Consequently, the engine will fill with exhaust. When this happens, you will have engine performance problems such as sputtering and lagging.

As if the above were not bad enough, you will also notice a reduction in your fuel mileage. Unfortunately, your automobile cannot get good gas mileage if the engine is running inefficiently. In order to resolve the inefficiency, the engine control unit may add fuel to the combustion chamber when it doesn’t need it. The chamber will burn away the excess fuel.

This will create dark exhaust that will flow out of your tailpipe if it can make its way through the clog in the catalytic converter. Another reason why your vehicle’s exhaust may get darker is that the catalytic converter is no longer treating it.

Your exhaust will not only get dark but it will also start to smell. In fact, it will smell like rotten eggs. This is a sign that your catalytic converter is clogged by sulfur deposits. Unfortunately, these deposits cannot be removed. Rather, the catalytic converter must be replaced.

As the converter fights with the deposits, it will produce excess heat underneath your vehicle. This heat may be noticeable when you are standing beside your automobile. It will also be noticeable if it causes your engine to overheat, which can happen when the heat rises.

Finally, you may receive a dashboard warning light if the catalytic converter is clogged. The specific light that will illuminate is the check engine light. Always take this warning light seriously because it reports problems including issues with the catalytic converter.

We are here to help, so call us today. We would be happy to schedule a service visit for your automobile so we can give your catalytic converter a thorough inspection. We will replace it if it is clogged.