Your automobile has a catalytic converter if it was built after 1975. This exhaust system part helps to purify the exhaust before it is released into the open air. Over time, deposits build up inside of the catalytic converter and eventually clog it. When this happens, you will have one or more of the following problems.
Performance Lag
When the catalytic converter gets clogged, it blocks the exhaust from flowing through the rest of the exhaust system and out of the tailpipe. Consequently, the exhaust will build up inside the engine and cause your engine performance to lag. This includes when you try to accelerate the vehicle.
Reduced Gas Mileage
Unfortunately, this engine lag will reduce your fuel economy. Consequently, you will have to fill the tank more often in order to keep it full. In order to restore your gas mileage, you must have the catalytic converter replaced so that the exhaust no longer builds up inside of the engine.
Check Engine Warning
Some of your system sensors are going to report error codes to the engine control module because the catalytic converter is clogged and malfunctioning. Replacing the catalytic converter resolves the problem, but the module cannot do that. As such, it turns on the check engine light.
Dark Exhaust Smoke
Some exhaust may it through the clog in the catalytic converter. Unfortunately, this exhaust will most likely not be treated for the environment. As such, the exhaust may be dark in color. The engine control module can also create dark exhaust by adding fuel to the combustion chamber to compensate for the performance problems.
Exhaust That Stinks
Your automobile’s exhaust is also going to stink. It will smell like rotten eggs. This odor proves that the catalytic converter is clogged. Specifically, it is clogged with sulfur deposits that it removes from your vehicle’s exhaust. Again, the resolution to this problem is a new catalytic converter.
Undercarriage Heat
Finally, the catalytic converter will produce excess heat once it is clogged. As such, it will be extremely hot underneath your automobile. In many cases, this heat will make its way into the engine. When this happens, your engine may overheat every time you drive your vehicle.
We can help if you have a clogged catalytic converter underneath your automobile. We can replace the converter and make sure the rest of your exhaust system is in excellent shape. Give us a call today to schedule a service appointment.
