Signs of Catalytic Converter Failure

Albuquerque Catalytic Converter Replacement
A catalytic converter reduces an automotive vehicle’s harmful emissions by converting them into harmless compounds before they exit through the exhaust pipes. A car or truck with a defective catalytic converter adds to the pollution of the environment. You will know if you have a failing catalytic converter because of the following signs:

1. Loss of Power
Loss of power is usually noticed when you accelerate or at higher speeds. You may experience difficulties when starting and you may get low mileage. Reduced engine power as indicated by low revolutions per minute (RPMs) on the tachometer is a sign of a failing catalytic converter.
2. High Emissions Levels
This is to be expected because it’s the function of the catalytic converter to reduce the amount of harmful substances (hydrocarbons, nitrogen oxide and carbon monoxide) coming out of the exhaust. The vehicle won’t pass state inspection with a failing catalytic converter.
3. Rattling Sound
Rattling is a result of thermal shock from a sudden change in temperature. One way it could happen is when an extremely-hot converter contacts snow or ice on the road, leading to a sudden contraction in the converter housing and causing the ceramic substrate to crack, break down and create a rattling sound as the pieces bounce around. .
4. Rotten Egg Odor/Very Hot Converter
The rotten egg odor is too much hydrogen sulfide in the emission caused by the imbalanced fuel and air mixture (too fuel rich mixture). Too much raw fuel also causes the converter to become very hot and later clogged if the condition is not corrected. .
5. Accidental Physical Damage
The converter could be damaged if the vehicle runs over some road obstacles or debris as well as a result of an accident.