Your car’s catalytic converter plays a crucial role in reducing harmful emissions and ensuring your vehicle runs smoothly. It’s part of the exhaust system and helps convert toxic gases, like carbon monoxide and nitrogen oxides, into less harmful substances before they exit the tailpipe. When it begins to fail, not only can your car’s performance suffer, but you could also risk failing an emissions test. The best way to avoid these problems is to bring your car to Lou’s Custom Exhaust for catalytic converter repair.
Do you need to repair your car’s catalytic converter? Look out for these three common signs.
Decreased Engine Performance
One of the earliest and most noticeable signs of a failing catalytic converter is a reduction in engine performance. If your vehicle starts to feel sluggish, struggles to accelerate, or has trouble maintaining speed, the converter may be clogged. A clogged catalytic converter restricts exhaust flow, placing extra pressure on the engine and reducing its efficiency. This can result in poor fuel economy and a general lack of power, particularly when driving uphill or under a heavy load.
Check Engine Light Is On
The check engine light is a universal warning that something isn’t right with your vehicle, and a failing catalytic converter is one of the common culprits. Modern cars are equipped with oxygen sensors that monitor the performance of the catalytic converter. If these sensors detect irregularities, like reduced efficiency or improper emissions, the check engine light will turn on. While it doesn’t always point directly to the catalytic converter, it’s a sign that diagnostic testing is necessary.
Rotten Egg Smell from the Exhaust
If you notice a strong, sulfur-like smell (often compared to rotten eggs) coming from your car’s exhaust, it’s a strong indicator that your catalytic converter is not processing exhaust gases properly. This odor typically results from the converter’s inability to break down hydrogen sulfide in the exhaust. Left unchecked, this issue can damage other parts of the exhaust system. Not to mention that it makes your car extremely unpleasant to drive.
Catalytic Converter Repair at Lou’s Custom Exhaust
If you notice any of these problems with your car, come to Lou’s Custom Exhaust. We’ll diagnose the problem and repair it so you can get back on the road. Addressing issues with your catalytic converter will improve your car’s performance and save you money in the long run.
