The catalytic converter is part of the exhaust system so the exhaust system is affected if the catalytic converter goes bad. Specifically, the engine’s exhaust routes through the catalytic converter so it can be treated for the environment. On average, Service Masters advises that you can plan to get at least 10 years out of the catalytic converter. If you drive an older car, truck, or utility vehicle and notice any of the problems listed below, it’s probably time to replace the catalytic converter.
Acceleration and Engine Performance Problems
The catalytic converter can get clogged by the very exhaust it treats. Hydrocarbons in the exhaust cause carbon build-up in the converter’s honeycomb. When the exhaust cannot flow through the catalytic converter, it will build up in the combustion chamber and hinder engine combustion. Unfortunately, your vehicle’s engine performance and acceleration will lag.
A Noticeable Reduction in Fuel Economy
The harder the engine tries to perform the more gasoline or diesel fuel it will burn. Consequently, you will end up with a noticeable reduction in your car, truck, or C/SUV’s gas mileage. This is not a good thing with fuel prices what they are these days. Replacing the catalytic converter will get the exhaust flowing again and restore the engine’s performance and efficiency.
Excess Exhaust Smoke That Is Black
As we mentioned above, the catalytic converter is installed in your automobile to treat the exhaust; it makes it safer to be released into the environment. A clogged catalytic converter will be unable to treat the exhaust effectively, and, as such, you may end up with a ton of black exhaust flowing out of the tailpipe. This is also a sign that your engine is burning fuel.
An Unpleasant Rotten Egg Odor in the Exhaust
Another sign that the catalytic converter is malfunctioning is engine exhaust that smells like rotten eggs. This is a sign that the catalytic converter is burning sulfur deposits and releasing them into the exhaust. You never want to smell burning sulfur in the exhaust or in the engine bay. Another thing that will release this odor is a leaking car battery.
A Ton of Heat Underneath Your Vehicle
Finally, if there is a ton of heat underneath your vehicle, you’ve got a faulty catalytic converter. You may not notice the heat at first, but once it rises into the engine, your engine will start to overheat all the time. This is a sign of catalytic converter failure.
Service Masters in Clearwater, FL, can replace your vehicle’s catalytic converter if it needs it. Call us today.
