A catalytic converter plays an essential role in your car’s emissions system, reducing harmful pollutants before they exit the exhaust. But like any part of your vehicle, it doesn’t last forever. When a catalytic converter starts to fail, it can lead to serious performance issues and potentially costly repairs. How can you tell if yours is on its way out? Here are five key signs to look for that might indicate a failing catalytic converter.
1. Reduced Engine Performance
One of the first and most noticeable signs of a failing catalytic converter is a drop in engine performance. If your car seems sluggish or lacks power, especially during acceleration, the catalytic converter may be clogged. When it becomes blocked, exhaust gasses can't escape efficiently, which reduces airflow and hampers your car's ability to operate at its full potential. This issue could also cause your vehicle to stall, especially when idling. If you're pushing harder on the gas pedal but not getting the response you're used to, the converter could be the culprit.
2. Check Engine Light Is On
An illuminated check engine light can signal many different problems with your vehicle, but a failing catalytic converter is a common reason. Your car’s on board diagnostics system monitors the catalytic converter's efficiency, and if it detects an issue, the check engine light will pop on. While a check engine light doesn’t always mean the converter is failing, it’s a red flag you shouldn’t ignore. A quick scan at your local repair shop can reveal if your catalytic converter is indeed the source of the problem.
3. Strange Exhaust Smell
Does your car's exhaust smell like rotten eggs or sulfur? That's a classic symptom of a catalytic converter problem. The catalytic converter’s job is to convert hydrogen sulfide in the fuel into odorless emissions. However, when the converter begins to fail, it can no longer do this effectively, and that pungent, rotten egg odor becomes more prominent. If you're noticing this stench every time you drive, it’s time to get your car checked out before the situation worsens.
4. Rattling Sounds Under the Car
Another potential sign of a failing catalytic converter is a strange rattling noise coming from underneath your vehicle, especially when starting the car or accelerating. This could indicate that the internal components of the converter have broken apart due to wear and tear. When the converter’s honeycomb structure becomes damaged or deteriorates, debris can break off inside the converter, resulting in a distinct rattling sound. Left unchecked, this can lead to complete failure, making it essential to address it as soon as possible.
5. Failed Emissions Test
A catalytic converter’s primary function is to reduce harmful emissions, so it stands to reason that if it fails, your car will likely not pass an emissions test. If your vehicle has been flagged during a routine emissions inspection, it could mean that the converter isn’t filtering exhaust gases properly. Regularly scheduled maintenance can help prevent this issue, but if you’re unexpectedly faced with a failed test, a faulty catalytic converter might be to blame.
Why You Shouldn't Ignore These Signs
Your car’s catalytic converter is not only vital for the environment, but it also plays a key role in keeping your engine running efficiently. Ignoring the signs of a failing catalytic converter can lead to more serious (and expensive) issues down the road, such as damaged engine components or a complete breakdown.
The good news is that catching these signs early can prevent further damage. Whether you’re dealing with poor performance, strange smells, or an illuminated check engine light, it’s important to take action before the problem escalates. A simple visit to a qualified repair shop can determine whether your catalytic converter is on its way out and help you avoid bigger headaches later on.
Worried about your vehicle’s emissions? Ocala Auto Repair offers thorough inspections and repairs to ensure your car passes emissions tests and stays in top condition. Stop by or contact us today!