Do you know that a faulty catalytic converter can make your car start to misfire or even release an unpleasant odor through the exhaust? The catalytic converter is very important in reducing dangerous emissions and it guarantees the proper working of your vehicle. When it starts to fail, you will experience different kinds of performance issues which could lead to a huge cost of repair if not well attended to. Below is a brief description of what the catalytic converter does and some tips on how to diagnose and resolve the problems.
Function of a Catalytic Converter
The catalytic converter is a vital component of your car’s exhaust system that is normally placed before the muffler. The primary function of this converter is to reduce lethal emissions by transforming toxic gases including carbon monoxide, nitrogen oxides, and hydrocarbons into less threatening elements such as carbon dioxide and water vapor.
The above conversion process is very important in the sense that it helps to keep the air in the surrounding environment free from pollutants and your vehicle in particular conforming to the required emission standards. Without the catalytic converter, the car may emit higher amounts of pollutants and could actually fail an emission test.
Signs That Your Catalytic Converter Is Failing
If you notice any of these signs, it’s advisable to have your vehicle examined by a professional without delay.
- Poor Car Performance: When your catalytic converter is not working properly you might have poorer performance from your automobile – it feels slower or less receptive.
- Decreased Fuel Economy: When the catalytic converter becomes damaged or packed with pollutants, your engine is not as efficient, which will diminish the fuel efficiency of your car.
- Sulfurous Odor: A faulty catalytic converter may produce a foul smell or what is comparable to the smell of sulfur, which emanates from the poor performance of the exhaust system.
How To Repair Problems With The Catalytic Converter
- Have it Diagnosed by a Mechanic: While some difficulties can be solved individually, catalytic converter problems should be solved by a specialist. A mechanic can use diagnostic equipment to locate the problem and determine if the converter is really the problem, or if it is some other component in the exhaust system.
- Clean the Catalytic Converter: Sometimes a catalytic converter becomes clogged and if this is due to buildup, then it can be cleaned. There are so many products out there that may be used to dissolve simple blockages and enhance efficiency. This process is usually temporary and may not hold for blocked converters with significant blockage issues.
- Repair or Replace Other Faulty Parts: Many times the problems with the converters stem from some other issue in the engine system such as faulty spark plugs or an oil leak. It is preferable to repair these issues to avoid further harm to the converter. If the mechanic diagnoses another problem, it is wise to deal with the problem to avoid aggravation.
- Replace the Catalytic Converter: If the clogs in the converter have become beyond rectification or the converter is too worn out, replacement is recommended. This is a costly repair but it is needed to keep the car running as well as to meet emissions standards. Some converters come with a warranty so you should ask for the terms of warranty offered.
- Perform Regular Maintenance: The best solution when it comes to catalytic converters is regular maintenance so that problems are detected and dealt with on time. A couple of things that can be done to help maintain the converter are changing the oil often, checking for leaks coming from the exhaust, and changing the spark plugs when necessary. Also, change your driving distance if you frequently travel short distances; occasionally long drives will help to clean the converter.
Count on Lancer Service for Your Catalytic Converter Repair in St. Paul
At Lancer Service, it is our pleasure to 
offer you the best auto repair services and ensure that your car runs and looks as good as new. Whether you need help with a catalytic converter or any other exhaust system issues, our team of experienced mechanics in St. Paul, MN, is always available. We will provide you with an efficient service complemented by our professional knowledge and your vehicle will be back on the roads in no time. Do not dismiss the symptoms of a faulty catalytic converter, call us or come to our shop, and we will ensure your car is in perfect condition.