Catalytic converters (also referred to as the ‘cat’) are an essential component of
your vehicle’s exhaust system, but unfortunately can become blocked for various reasons.
Due to the precious metal content found in most cars, thieves are increasingly
targeting these cars for theft. Therefore, it’s essential that before selling your car for
cash you check for these indicators:
This is particularly pertinent if you intend on using it as scrap metal.
Check Engine Light
Check engine lights (CELs) can be an indicator that your catalytic converter has
become blocked or compromised, prompting drivers to take immediate steps
towards having it serviced before additional expensive parts become damaged. A
flashing CEL should alert drivers that it is time for inspection.
The catalytic converter sits near the tailpipe, and its primary goal is to reduce
harmful gases into less dangerous ones. To do this, it relies on oxygen sensors and
other components for assistance; should any malfunction arise, your CEL will illuminate.
Other symptoms of a bad catalytic converter may include reduced gas mileage,
rattling sounds and slow acceleration. If these issues appear on your vehicle it is
important to visit an auto shop in Phoenix immediately to seek repairs or
replacements as this problem will restrict airflow through your engine, leading to
reduced performance.
Rattling Noises
Rattle noises from underneath your car are one of the telltale signs that your
catalytic converter has begun to fail, usually as a result of excess heat or damage or
simply age deterioration causing its honeycomb material to break apart and produce
that familiar rattling sound. In turn this could reduce gas mileage and performance,
potentially leading to problems like reduced mileage.
These issues may also be accompanied by an unpleasant odor and clogged exhaust
system. A blocked converter may obstruct air flow, changing the ratio between air
and fuel intake and engine misfiring/burning oil and loss of power or reduced gas mileage.
An expensive catalytic converter replacement can be avoided through proper
maintenance; however, if symptoms of its failure arise it’s essential that it’s
addressed immediately or it could result in serious engine or transmission issues down the line.
Poor Fuel Economy
Catalytic converters have a warranty covering 8 years or 80,000 miles; however,
they can still fail. Situated near the end of your exhaust system, this honeycombshaped metal canister helps curb emissions and improve fuel efficiency by breaking
down gasses into less harmful byproducts through chemical reactions. However, it
may become damaged from contaminants such as engine oil from worn piston rings,
blocked crankcase ventilation systems or coolant that leaks from a ruptured head gasket.
Contamination in your catalytic converter can restrict airflow through the engine and
cause poor acceleration, while failing converters can generate excessive exhaust
smoke, rattle noises, heat-related clogs or damage as well as theft of precious
metals within it – not to mention theft for scrap dealers! Regular maintenance should
help stave off this fate but if signs of trouble arise immediately take your vehicle to your mechanic.
Loss of Power
Once your catalytic converter becomes clogged, your engine may require more fuel
to produce equal levels of power – leading to reduced gas mileage and potentially
poor gas mileage. Signs that indicate this are smells like rotten eggs or sulfur from
your exhaust as well as dark smoke coming out. These could all indicate that
something may be amiss with it.
Clogged catalytic converters should never be ignored. Driving around with one in
poor condition is bad for the environment and could potentially lead to other vehicle
problems as well. Common symptoms to keep an eye out for include reduced gas
mileage, rattle noises or the check engine light coming on. If this occurs to your
vehicle contact a qualified mechanic immediately for car service; they will help your
car run more efficiently by performing any needed services such as catalytic
converter repairs and replacements as well as helping pass smog tests without
incurring hefty fines from passing smog tests or passing smog tests.