You will get about 10 years out of your car, truck, or utility vehicle’s catalytic converter. After that time, it’s important to watch for signs that the converter is going bad. One reason why this is crucial is that a malfunctioning or clogged catalytic converter cannot change dangerous toxins into safer emissions. Auto Service Kingston would be happy to inspect your catalytic converter if you’re having any of the problems listed below. We can replace it if it is necessary.
A Reduction in Your Vehicle’s Acceleration
You may notice that your vehicle’s acceleration lags when you try to pick up speed. This can happen when the catalytic converter gets clogged. Unfortunately, instead of the vehicle exhaust flowing through the converter and out the tailpipe, it backs up into the combustion chamber. This affects the ability of the spark plugs to ignite fresh air and fuel to keep the combustion going and the engine running.
Problems With Your Engine’s Performance
This issue also causes problems with your engine’s performance. Even if you haven’t noticed a lag in your acceleration, you may have noticed that your engine starts to sputter as you pick up speed. The engine requires more fuel when it is going faster, and the combustion chamber may not have room for the excess fuel if it’s filled with exhaust. Again, this can happen if the catalytic converter is clogged.
Dark Exhaust Smoke Flowing Out of the Tailpipe
If the catalytic converter is malfunctioning, it cannot treat the exhaust to ensure it is safer when it exits the tailpipe. Consequently, the color of your exhaust will be dark instead of clear. If your vehicle is suddenly releasing black exhaust smoke, it might be a problem with the catalytic converter or an imbalance in the combustion chamber where there is too much fuel being burned.
Burning Sulfur (Rotten Egg) Odors in the Exhaust
One way to pinpoint the problem is to determine if you smell burning odors in your vehicle’s exhaust. Do not inhale the exhaust! This is dangerous. But you will know if the catalytic converter is burning sulfur because you will smell rotten eggs. If you can smell this unpleasant odor in your exhaust, it’s time to replace the catalytic converter because it has gone bad.
Excessive Heat From Underneath the Vehicle
Finally, a faulty catalytic converter will also overheat. This creates excessive heat underneath your car, truck, or utility vehicle. Unfortunately, this excess heat can also cause your engine to overheat.
Call Auto Service Kingston in Kingston, ON, today if you are vehicle is experiencing any of the symptoms listed above. We’d be happy to inspect the catalytic converter and replace it if it needs it.