A bad catalytic converter will cause engine performance problems because the engine’s exhaust is building up inside the combustion chamber. Usually, what makes a catalytic converter go bad is that it becomes clogged with carbon deposits. Scotty’s Automotive can replace your catalytic converter if it is causing engine performance problems or any of the other problems listed below.
Dark Engine Exhaust
As you know, the catalytic converter treats the engine’s exhaust so it can be released into the environment without causing excess harm. If you see black smoke flowing out of your tailpipe, this is a sign that the catalytic converter has failed to treat the exhaust. It can also be an indication that the catalytic converter has indirectly caused an increase of fuel in the combustion chamber.
Reduced Fuel Economy
Unfortunately, this, coupled with the engine performance problems discussed in the introduction to this blog, can reduce your vehicle’s fuel economy and leave you heading to the service station more often. This is because the engine is not running efficiently. It is struggling to produce efficient combustion because there is exhaust left in the combustion chamber that is blocking air and fuel flow.
Burning Sulfur Odors
Another sign that your catalytic converter is going bad is the odor of burning sulfur wafting from underneath your automobile. You may already know this but burning sulfur has the same smell as rotten eggs. You never want to detect this unpleasant odor coming from your automobile. It is a sign that the catalytic converter needs to be replaced or that your battery is leaking battery acid.
Undercarriage Heat
In many cases, your vehicle’s engine will start to overheat if the catalytic converter is malfunctioning. This excess undercarriage heat is caused by the catalytic converter overheating itself. Unfortunately, the heat can rise upward and make its way into the engine. When this happens, your engine gets too hot and overheats. Your engine temperature should never be above 220 degrees Fahrenheit.
Check Engine Light
Finally, because the catalytic converter does not have a warning light of its own, the engine control module will turn on the check engine light to let you know the catalytic converter is malfunctioning. A recent study proved that the check engine light is incredibly effective in alerting drivers of engine problems. This includes a problem with the catalytic converter.
Scotty’s Automotive is the best auto service shop in Montague, NJ, and we would love it if you called us today to schedule an appointment for your automobile if the catalytic converter is malfunctioning.
