4 Warning Signs You Need a New Catalytic Converter

4 Warning Signs You Need a New Catalytic Converter

Every car owner knows that there are certain things you need to do on a regular basis in order to properly maintain your car. While regular maintenance goes a long way toward extending the life of your car, there are certain issues that cannot be avoided when a part wears out. 

Your catalytic converter is one of those parts that display several symptoms before giving out. Read on to learn about the signs that you might need a new catalytic converter!

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1. You Notice a Rotten Egg Smell

If you start your engine and notice a rotten egg smell coming in through the vents, that’s often a critical sign that your catalytic converter is failing. Catalytic converters transform the hydrogen sulfide produced in the combustion process into sulfur dioxide. However, when you have a bad catalytic converter, this won’t happen, and you’ll notice the smell.

Replacing your catalytic converter might be expensive, but you can get some cash back for your old one. Look here for more information about recycling an old catalytic converter.

2. Your Engine Is Suddenly Very Loud

Some very unlucky people have found themselves victims of catalytic converter theft. When your car is missing a catalytic converter, the most obvious sign is an engine that roars when you start it. It’s impossible to miss, and if you notice that your car is super loud all of a sudden, then it’s time to get it checked out.

That said, a bad catalytic converter also tends to produce a rattling sound when you’re driving. This is thanks to the breakdown of the honeycomb material in part. The rattling tends to be the loudest when you initially start the car.

3. The Check Engine Light Is On

We all dread having the “Check Engine” light come on, but it’s a light that should never be ignored. If you have a failing catalytic converter, the gases produced by your engine will ping your car’s oxygen sensor and make this light come on. Since the “Check Engine” light isn’t super specific, you may not know it’s the catalytic converter until you take your car in for service.

4. Poor Engine Performance

Did you know that catalytic converters can get clogged? 

Carbon tends to build up in the honeycomb of the catalytic converter, which results in the poor exhaust flow. Your car needs good exhaust flow to perform at peak levels. If your car has trouble with acceleration, you may need to clean, repair, or even replace your catalytic converter.

Do You Need a New Catalytic Converter?

Catalytic converters are a sturdy part, but they can and do fail from time to time. If your car is displaying any of these symptoms, you should take it to your nearest mechanic to see if you need a new catalytic converter or can simply be repaired. Don’t worry if it needs to be replaced, your mechanic will use their auto shop repair software to find the perfect match for your vehicle.

Staying on top of maintenance and repairs will help keep your car in good shape for years to come! 

Do you want to stay on top of your car, home, and family? You’re in the right place! Check out the rest of our blog for all of the best advice!

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