Signs of catalytic converter going bad

Sulfur smell : If you smell rotten eggs when your vehicle is running, then the catalytic converter may not be catalyzing the sulfur in the exhaust gas. Exhaust temperature : Once the engine is up to normal operating temperature, measure the exhaust temperature directly, before and after the converter, using an infrared thermometer. If there is a big difference at least degrees , then the converter may need to be replaced.

A large temperature difference can result from a clogged converter that traps exhaust gasses and makes it less efficient. Engine vacuum : If there is no check engine light on or your vehicle was built before pre-OBDII , then an engine vacuum test may be necessary if there are other warning signs. When the engine is idling, hook up a vacuum gauge to the intake manifold and record the reading.

Then, rev the engine to 2, RPM a helper will make this easier and observe the measurement again. As mentioned in our different types of catalytic converters article, depending on your experience level and access to tools, you may be able to replace it yourself, especially if you buy a MagnaFlow Direct-Fit model. However, be honest with yourself about your mechanical ability before attempting a do-it-yourself installation.

Incorrectly installing a catalytic converter can result in other engine problems and prevent the vehicle from passing emissions testing. Have questions? Close Search. Comments Your Information. Related Articles. To fix our car. Diego is very professional, knowledgeable, trustworthy, and FAST!!! Anthony 28 years of experience.

Request Anthony. Hyundai Sonata L Anthony was very knowledgeable in diagnosing the problem with my car. I would use this service again. Mercury Mountaineer V Did everything he could to track down a emissions code, after all recommended to replace a bad PCM.

Pedro 22 years of experience. Request Pedro. Infiniti Q60 V Very professional and honest. Was fortunate to have him be the one to show up. Thank you Pedro! Need Help With Your Car? Related articles. Read more. Related questions p A vehicle with , miles is likely due for a catalytic converter. The catalytic converter is part of your there vehicle exhaust system. This converter converts harmful emissions to less-toxic to the environment.

You will find the catalytic converter in gasoline or diesel vehicles that are run to buy combustion engines.

The catalytic converter is usually located between the muffler and the headers. Catalytic converters were added to the vehicles since to comply with the US environment's self-protection agency regulations related to exhaust emissions. Depending on the vehicle's make, model, or year, the location of the catalytic converter varies; some vehicles have dual exhaust systems that consist of two catalytic converters.

Automobile experts suggest that the catalytic converter lasts up to 10 years under normal operations. However, as the catalytic converter gets older, it is expected to tear, wear, clog, and get damaged at some point to require installing a new catalytic converter.

Even if the catalytic converter was not completely damaged, if you don't take action and fix it, you will not receive the top efficiency, and the vehicle will experience issues when driving. The mechanical components of your vehicle tell you that they are about to fail before they even completely fail.

Here is a list of signs of a bad catalytic converter:. If your vehicle's catalytic converter is bad, the exhaust system will not be able the convert the toxic gases into less-toxic pollutants to be released out. As a result, these gases will be built up, causing high pressure on the engine, and therefore, the engine will start stalling and making it hard to start.

While the reduction in fuel efficiency can happen due to many factors, one of these factors could be a bad catalytic converter. When the catalytic converter goes bad, the engine will not receive the required amount of oxygen needed.

As a result, the engine will start consuming more fuel, and therefore, you will notice a drop in fuel efficiency. That's why you will need to refill the fuel tank much more often than before. Your vehicle's internal computer uses the check engine light to indicate internal issues with the vehicle. If the catalytic converter goes bad, the air to fuel ratio will be affected, causing a high emission of toxic pollutants.

Therefore, don't be surprised when the mechanic tells you that it's the Catholic converter causing the check engine light to illuminate. Using a wrench, unscrew the bolts. Stubborn bolts may require oil to grease and soften. If it sounds like there are damaged components, shake the converter. Step 4: Begin by cleaning the shell with a clean towel. Wash it with a power washer to get rid of the contaminants or debris out of the component. With moderate water pressure, clean the input and output pipes thoroughly.

Step 5: In a container, blend the degreaser and hot water. Soak it for approximately hours. When finished, remove it from the mixture and rinse it with clean water.

Allow it to dry before reassembling. Remember to reinstall it in the same manner that you removed it. Step 6: Perform a quick test drive to ensure that everything is in place and working. Re-test the converter after test driving. If the result falls within the appropriate ranges, it indicates that the blockage has been cleared. If the unit fails too badly during testing, the only alternative is to replace it.

Keep in mind that they are a critical component for the proper performance of your car. Call a mechanic to do the job for you to guarantee proper unclogging. After all, hitting the road safely should be your top priority. Your email address will not be published.

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. Skip to content A catalytic converter is a critical component in every vehicle. Two Types Eugene Houdry, a French chemical engineer, was the first to patent one in Types Oxidation Reduction There are two types of catalyst: reduction and oxidation catalyst.

What do they do? Here are some common signs of a clogged one: 1. Increased Emissions Its function is to burn unburned fuel or gases that exit the engine, resulting in low carbon emissions.

Poor Performance When carbon buildup inside becomes excessive, it causes a partial blockage within the catalytic converter. Misfiring Another thing, pay attention to is misfiring; if it happens, fix the problem as soon as possible.

Bad Smell Coming Out from the Exhaust Fuel contains a small number of sulfur particles that convert to hydrogen sulfide during combustion. The Exhaust Produces a Rattling Noise A rattling sound coming from your engine is because of components in the honeycomb-shaped chamber inside the catalyst breaking apart due to overheating or damage triggered by too much use of a rich fuel mixture.

Reduced Fuel Efficiency The piston will be stressed if it is clogged. Hard Start and Overheating When it is completely clogged, the engine cannot breathe because the exhaust gases have nowhere to go.

What Happens When it Fails? The converter blocked the exhaust system and increased the pressure way too much. Unburned fuel and other particles block the honeycombed mesh, causing pressure to build up. The temperature gauge will register somewhat higher because the exhaust gas remains in the engine for a very long period, causing it to overheat.