The title of this blog post gives you the average lifespan of a catalytic converter. Ten years is how long this exhaust system part generally lasts. Without a functioning catalytic converter, Anderson Automotive advises that your vehicle will release untreated exhaust into the environment. If you live in a state that requires emissions testing, this can create huge problems. Let’s talk about the signs of a bad catalytic converter below.
Burning Sulfur Odors
One of the first things you might notice is the smell of burning sulfur. If you are unfamiliar with this odor, it smells like rotten eggs. Burning sulfur odors point directly to the catalytic converter as the source of the problem. Unfortunately, you will need to replace the catalytic converter to get rid of these odors. We can do that here at our shop.
Check Engine Warning
Because a faulty catalytic converter affects how well your automobile runs and releases exhaust, the check engine light often turns on if the catalytic converter is malfunctioning. This is because system sensors throughout your vehicle detect various problems, such as the engine performance issues that we are going to discuss below. Consequently, you will end up with the check engine warning.
Heavy/Dark Exhaust
Heavy and dark tailpipe exhaust suggests that the catalytic converter is unable to properly treat the exhaust. This is also an indication that your vehicle is releasing excess emissions into the environment. Unfortunately, you will continue to have exhaust problems until you replace the catalytic converter. This can make passing an emissions test nearly impossible.
Overheating/Heat Problems
When the catalytic converter has problems, it tends to generate too much heat underneath your automobile. This can cause your engine to overheat and your floorboard to feel hot. There is always some heat coming from underneath your car, truck, or utility vehicle, but this heat should not be excessive. If it is, the catalytic converter is going bad.
Sluggish/Lagging Engine
Finally, as we mentioned above, a faulty catalytic converter can cause engine performance problems. Specifically, your engine and acceleration will become sluggish and lag. Until such time as you replace the catalytic converter, you will continue to fight with your automobile to get it to perform. If you are having engine performance problems, we can pinpoint the cause.
Call Anderson Automotive in Marion, IA, today and let us help you with your catalytic converter problems. We will inspect the converter and replace it if necessary.