We hate to say it here at John Ellis & Son but there is no way your SUV, car, or truck will pass a smog check if the catalytic converter has been stolen. One reason why is that the check engine light will be on. In addition, the converter is no longer there to reduce the hydrocarbons that are being released in your vehicle’s exhaust. Consequently, the automobile will fail the smog check until you replace the converter.
Illuminated CEL
As we mentioned above, if your catalytic converter has been stolen, the engine control module will turn on the check engine light and leave it on. Unfortunately, the reason why is that the sensors in your vehicle’s exhaust system are sending error codes to the module. The module cannot fix the problem; it can’t replace the stolen catalytic converter. As such, it will turn on the CEL.
Roaring Engine
In addition, the first time you fire up your engine after the catalytic converter has been stolen, it will roar loudly. There is no way to miss the extreme difference in how the engine sounds. If you start your automobile and the engine is roaring, cut the engine right away and contact the police. If you can, slide underneath your vehicle to see if the catalytic converter is gone.
Acceleration Problems
You should only slide underneath the automobile when everything is cold. If you cannot tell that the catalytic converter is missing and opt to drive your vehicle, you will notice that the acceleration increases the noise of the engine and causes your vehicle to jerk. In fact, the automobile may jerk so violently that it will make it difficult to drive your SUV, car, or truck.
Slow-Speed Problems
Another thing that is going to make the automobile difficult to drive is problems with the engine performing at slow speeds. Unfortunately, when someone steals the catalytic converter, it reduces the engine’s ability to produce low-end torque. This means your automobile is going to sputter and struggle to run unless you are driving fast.
Strong Exhaust Odors
In all reality, it’s not a good idea to drive your automobile if the catalytic converter is gone. Rather, you should have the vehicle towed to our shop because the exhaust can easily make its way into the automobile’s interior. This can make you extremely ill while you drive.
Call John Ellis & Son in Sacramento, CA, today if you are the victim of catalytic converter theft. We will not only replace the catalytic converter but also repair any exhaust system damage.
