.jpeg)
The catalytic converter on your vehicle is a component that works hard to reduce the amount of emissions that your vehicle puts out into the environment. It will help to convert the vehicle's output into gases that are less harmful. When it goes bad, there are several symptoms that can tell you what's going on.
1. Reduced Engine Performance
The first thing you might notice is that your engine isn't working as well. You might have a lower fuel efficiency, which will send you to the gas pumps a lot more often than normal. You don't want to engine performing less than efficiently because that can cause damage to that system, and many other components. Plus, it costs you more to run the vehicle.
2. A Rattling Noise
You know what your car normally sounds like and when you hear something rattling, that's not a good sign. The converter might be damaged on the inside, which can cause it to break apart and rattle. That rattle will likely only worsen over time if you don't address the issue.
3. An Exhaust or Sulfur Smell
When your catalytic converter decides it doesn't want to work any longer, you are going to get a rotten egg smell in your vehicle, which will come from the exhaust. That's a very unpleasant smell and it's a sure sign that something has gone wrong in your car.
4. The Check Engine Light Is On
There are any number of reasons that the check engine light can come on and a failing catalytic converter is one such reason. You never want to ignore that light and if it turns out that the converter is the issue, it's a lot easier to fix than other things the engine could have wrong with it, especially if you ignore the light for too long.
When you suspect that your catalytic converter is on its way out because of some of these signs and symptoms, call our auto repair shop today and we will take a look at the system and make any necessary repairs to get you back on the road.