5 Signs You May Need a New Catalytic Converter

Essential to the environment, the catalytic converter is the component of the exhaust system that breaks over 90% of toxic emissions down into greener compounds. It’s also essential to the optimal performance of your engine and the overall health of your car, so it’s vital that you know when to contact your Lincoln dealer to organize a checkup or replacement.

1. Mounting Mileage 

The converter, also known as the “cat”, should last for up to 100,000 miles or ten years, so you might find that it outlasts your car. However, if your vehicle has a lot of distance under its belt, you should stay alert to signs that the exhaust system is struggling.

2. Rattling Noises Under the Engine

The cat consists of a honeycomb-like structure that is covered with tiny pores and coated in metals such as nickel and palladium. If it becomes damaged, usually by age, heat, or a sharp blow, it might start to break up. Pieces of the mesh can then infiltrate your exhaust and cause rattling noises, loudest at ignition, when the engine is running. 

Left untended, this can cause further damage to the exhaust system, so it’s important to get it checked out.

3. Unpleasant Odors

A sulfuric smell, similar to rotten eggs, might be another indication that all is not well with the cat. Instead of breaking hydrogen sulfide into harmless sulfur dioxide, a malfunctioning converter will let unburnt fuel into the system, causing an odor that won’t enhance your enjoyment of the drive! Other signs include a burning smell or thick black smoke that emits from the exhaust.

4. Underwhelming Performance

At ignition, most engines require an air-fuel ratio of 14:1, but a faulty converter will allow too much fuel into the engine, restricting the airflow and potentially damaging the spark plugs. This could cause the engine to die a few seconds after ignition, or lead to a sluggish response when you accelerate or drive at speed. It may also allow unburnt fuel into the exhaust system, wasting it and impacting your fuel efficiency.

5. Failed Emissions Test

Most Texas cars receive an emissions test as part of their annual inspection, and if the cat doesn’t work then the vehicle won’t pass. A fully operational converter is essential to keeping your car on the road.

Ignoring the signs of a faulty, clogged, or broken converter could result in the buildup of harmful chemicals in the engine, leading to costly damage down the line. If you think your cat needs checking, or if you have any doubt at all, contact us at Bayway Lincoln to schedule a service. Our trained technicians will meet your highest expectations when it comes to expertise, advice, and repair.

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