The catalytic converter is responsible for treating the engine’s exhaust so it is safe to flow out of the tailpipe. John Ellis & Son advises that the catalytic converter has a 10-year lifespan. If you drive an older automobile and notice any of the following issues, the catalytic converter could be malfunctioning.
1. Check Engine Warning
Oftentimes, the check engine light turns on when the catalytic converter goes bad. This is due to the fact that the converter does not have a warning light of its own. The engine control module, your vehicle’s main computer chip, will turn on the catch-all check engine to let you know there’s a problem with the engine. In this case, the problem is a faulty catalytic converter.
2. Lagging Engine Performance
In conjunction with the light, you may notice that your vehicle’s engine is lagging. It might sputter and hiccup while you are driving. This can happen when the catalytic converter gets clogged – a common problem. The exhaust will back up into the combustion chamber and affect the engine performance.
3. Acceleration Reduction
The exhaust will also affect how well your automobile accelerates. With a malfunctioning catalytic converter, the acceleration will lag when you press down on the accelerator. It will become difficult for your car, truck, or utility vehicle to pick up speed because the chamber is filled with exhaust.
4. Poor Fuel Economy
Unfortunately, these two problems will reduce your vehicle’s fuel economy. You will notice that a full tank of gasoline or diesel fuel does not last as long as it used to. With fuel prices what they are these days, this side effect of a dying catalytic converter can be extremely frustrating.
5. Black Exhaust Smoke
Another sign that the catalytic converter is reaching the end of its life is black exhaust smoke flowing out of the tailpipe. This can be a sign that the faulty catalytic converter has indirectly affected the balance of fuel and air in the combustion chamber and caused an unnatural increase in fuel.
6. Rotten Egg Smells
You might also smell rotten eggs in the exhaust. This odor is actually burning sulfur. When you detect this odor, it’s a safe bet that the cause of the unpleasant smell is the catalytic converter. The only other thing that will smell like rotten eggs is a leaking car battery.
7. Excessive Heat
Finally, when the catalytic converter goes bad, it will generate too much heat underneath your automobile. Unfortunately, the underside of your car, truck, or C/SUV will be too hot and this heat will make its way into the engine. Naturally, your engine will overheat.
John Ellis & Son is the best auto service shop in Sacramento, CA, so call us today to schedule an appointment for a catalytic converter inspection if your vehicle is suffering from any of the problems listed above.
