Let’s talk about the catalytic converter in this blog post. Extra Mile Tire and Service advises that you can expect a lifespan of about 10 years out of the factory-installed catalytic converter. If you drive an older automobile, the catalytic converter is likely to go bad. We are going to list six signs below that indicate it is time to replace the catalytic converter in your car, truck, or utility vehicle.
1. Sluggish/Powerless Engine
The catalytic converter treats the exhaust before it is released out of the exhaust pipe. Over time, carbon deposits and sulfur build up inside the catalytic converter. These deposits will clog the catalytic converter eventually. When this happens, the exhaust gets stuck behind the catalytic converter and remains in the combustion chamber. This reduces your engine’s power and acceleration.
2. Reduction in Fuel Efficiency
Unfortunately, as the clogged combustion chamber struggles to produce combustion, it will burn through more fuel than it normally does. This is an indication that the engine is not running efficiently. The reduction in fuel efficiency will be noticeable and get worse as the catalytic converter continues to malfunction. Replacing the faulty converter will restore your engine’s performance and fuel efficiency.
3. Dark Engine Exhaust Smoke
Your engine’s exhaust may end up being filled with hydrocarbons if the catalytic converter is unable to do its job. Consequently, you may see dark exhaust smoke flowing out of the tailpipe. This is a sign that the engine is burning too much fuel or that the converter has not treated the exhaust.
4. Strange Odors in the Exhaust
As we mentioned above, the catalytic converter can get clogged by sulfur deposits. When the scorching exhaust flows over these deposits, they release a rotten egg odor in your vehicle’s exhaust. This is definitely a sign that the catalytic converter has gone bad and needs to be replaced.
5. Excessive Undercarriage Heat
You may also experience excessive undercarriage heat if the catalytic converter is malfunctioning. The converter itself will get too hot and release heat underneath the vehicle. This heat can rise into the engine and cause your engine to overheat whenever you drive your automobile.
6. Check Engine Warning Light
Finally, you may end up with the check engine warning light on the dashboard because various sensors throughout the engine are reporting errors to the engine control unit. The underlying cause of these errors could be a malfunctioning catalytic converter.
Call Extra Mile Tire and Service in Milton, GA, today if you suspect that your automobile needs a new catalytic converter.
