Before we get into the signs that you need to replace your car, truck, or utility vehicle’s catalytic converter, let’s talk about what this important exhaust system part does. Fast Lane Automotive advises that the catalytic converter is responsible for converting harmful emissions into safe ones. Once these emissions are safe, they are released through the tailpipe in your vehicle’s exhaust. The catalytic converter lasts 10 years on average. Here are signs that yours needs to be replaced.
1. Reduced Vehicle Acceleration
Over time, the catalytic converter can become clogged with carbon deposits. This is a byproduct of the emissions in the exhaust that it treats. If the catalytic converter gets clogged, exhaust will have nowhere to go but back to the combustion chamber. When this happens, it becomes difficult for the combustion chamber to fire fresh air and fuel. Consequently, your vehicle’s acceleration will lag.
2. Engine Performance Problems
You will also begin to experience engine performance problems such as sputtering and hiccupping. This is an indication that there is an imbalance of air and fuel in the combustion chamber. If the chamber is filled with engine exhaust, the air and fuel will not only become imbalanced but also nonexistent in severe cases. This will prevent you from being able to start your engine.
3. Excessive Dark Exhaust Smoke
A faulty catalytic converter can also affect the balance of air and fuel in the combustion chamber. When this happens and you end up with a rich fuel mixture, you might see dark exhaust smoke flowing out of your tailpipe. This is also a symptom of untreated exhaust. In other words, the catalytic converter was unable to convert the harmful emissions into safe ones.
4. Burning Sulfur (Rotten Egg) Odors
Burning sulfur odors are also a sign that your catalytic converter is going bad. These odors will remind you of rotten eggs. It’s hard to miss this disgusting odor, and you will notice that the most in your vehicle’s exhaust. You may also smell it wafting from underneath your automobile.
5. Excessive Undercarriage Heat
Finally, a malfunctioning catalytic converter will overheat and create excessive heat underneath your automobile. While you may not be aware of this heat initially, as the hot temperatures rise, your engine will get too hot, as well.
Call Fast Lane Automotive in Orlando, FL, today if you suspect your catalytic converter is going bad. We can inspect this exhaust system part and replace it if necessary.
