Your car, truck, or utility vehicle’s catalytic converter will malfunction if it gets clogged. Generally, the catalytic converter gets clogged after it has cleared the exhaust of harmful emissions for 10 years. This equates to about 100,000 miles. If you are having any of the problems listed below, it may be time for a new catalytic converter.
Illuminated CEL
The engine control unit, which is the main computer chip, may turn on the check engine light if the catalytic converter is clogged and malfunctioning. The unit uses the check engine light because the catalytic converter does not have a light. Bring your vehicle to our shop if the CEL is on.
Performance Issues
You may notice engine performance issues while you are driving to our shop. A clogged catalytic converter affects the engine’s performance because the exhaust builds up inside the engine. It cannot get past the clog in the catalytic converter and flow through the rest of the exhaust system.
Fuel Economy Issues
Unfortunately, when your engine performance suffers your fuel economy suffers. In this case, you will see a reduction in your vehicle’s gas mileage. This can be frustrating because gas is so expensive. Replacing the catalytic converter will restore your engine’s performance and, as such, your fuel economy.
Dark Engine Exhaust
One strange thing that can happen when the catalytic converter gets clogged is you may see dark exhaust in your rearview mirror. This exhaust is a sign that the catalytic converter is unable to treat the exhaust and there is too much fuel in the combustion chamber. This can be caused indirectly by the clogged catalytic converter.
Rancid Sulfur Odors
Your exhaust may also start to smell rancid. This odor will come from underneath your automobile. You will also smell the rancid odor in the engine. Specifically, the odor is that of rancid eggs. This is a sign that your catalytic converter has a buildup of sulfur deposits inside of it and, consequently, it needs to be replaced.
Undercarriage Heat
Finally, when the catalytic converter malfunctions, it often produces too much heat. Unfortunately, this means there will be a ton of heat underneath your automobile. As you know, heat rises. Consequently, you may also have a problem with your engine overheating when you drive your automobile.
We can replace your clogged catalytic converter, so call us today to set up a service visit for your automobile.