Catalytic Converters, Located on the bottom of your vehicle, you most likely have a catalytic converter just behind your engine. Any petrol car manufactured after 1993 must have a catalytic converter. While they’re found close to the engine, they don’t actually help your car run. They help clean up emissions.
Learn more about it do common issues, maintenance tips, and common fixes.
What is a Catalytic Converter
Catalytic Converters help purify exhaust gas. When we drive, harmful emissions from our vehicles pollute the air; a catalytic converter is responsible for controlling these toxic emissions. The converter reduces harmful pollutants by taking gases and converting them into water vapor and less harmful gases via a series of chemical reactions. 90% of harmful emissions become less harmful gasses.
Why It’s Important to Maintain and Fix Catalytic Converters
A failing catalytic converter will no longer appropriately convert a car’s toxic emissions into less harmful materials. These airborne pollutants aren’t just damaging to the environment, but they can cause adverse effects in people and animals as well.
Aside from helping protect the atmosphere, weak or broken catalytic converters often produce an unpleasant, potent smell from the gasses flowing through it. A car’s exhaust will have a strong, foul sulfur-type smell.
Common Issues
Like anything else, catalytic converters are not immune to natural wear and tear. They can become contaminated, clogged, overheated, or physically damaged.
How To Spot Issues
How do you know when it’s time to go to the mechanic? If you’re experiencing any of the following symptoms, be sure to have your car looked at by a professional.
- Sluggish engine performance
- Reduced acceleration
- Dark grey exhaust smoke
- A strong sulfur smell (similar to rotten eggs) coming from the exhaust
- Excessive heat under your vehicle
- Difficulty starting the engine and stalling
- Low fuel economy and engine performance
- Failed emissions test
Following your vehicle’s recommended maintenance schedule will help ensure the longevity of your catalytic converter. A well-maintained converter can usually last 10+ years. Keeping an eye on your exhaust, emissions, and combustion systems can help prolong the lifespan of your
catalytic converter.
Common Fixes
A mechanic needs to diagnose and either fix or replace your catalytic converter. In most cases, catalytic converter failure is caused by a thick layer of contaminants on the walls or excessive clogging. Your technician will perform an analysis of the exhaust gases to identify the fail point.
One thing worth remembering is that if it fails, it has a reason. You may have additional engine issues that contributed to the converter failure. If you don’t address the root cause, you can probably expect the replacement to suffer the same fate as your current convert later on. It’s essential to take your car in to get checked out by a licensed mechanic. They’ll have the tools and resources to diagnose and properly fix the issue – no matter what it is!
follow stricter standards set by the Bureau of Automotive Repair (BAR).
