Signs of Catalytic Converter Issues

Your car’s catalytic converter is an essential part of its exhaust system, playing a crucial role in reducing harmful emissions and keeping your engine running smoothly. However, like all components, it can develop problems over time. Recognizing the signs of catalytic converter issues early can help you avoid costly repairs or even engine damage. If you’re noticing strange behavior from your vehicle, here are a few common signs that your catalytic converter may be in trouble.

Decreased Engine Performance

One of the most noticeable signs of a failing catalytic converter is a sudden drop in engine performance. You might experience sluggish acceleration or find it difficult to reach highway speeds at the entrance, especially when climbing hills. This happens as a clogged or damaged catalytic converter restricts the exhaust flow, making it harder for your engine to expel gases effectively. As a result, your engine may feel less responsive, and it may struggle to perform under load.

Check Engine Light Comes On

A malfunctioning catalytic converter can trigger a check engine light warning on your dashboard. Modern cars are equipped with onboard diagnostic systems that monitor various parts of the engine and exhaust system, including the catalytic converter. If the system detects a problem, such as inefficient catalytic activity or improper oxygen readings, it will turn on the check engine light to alert you. If this happens, it’s a good idea to have the car inspected by a mechanic to as soon as possible to avoid further damage to your emissions and exhaust components.

Poor Fuel Efficiency

Another common indicator of catalytic converter problems is a noticeable drop in fuel efficiency.  Similar to how a clogged converter can reduce performance, it can also cause the engine to work harder to produce power, which results in increased fuel consumption. If you’ve noticed that you’re making more frequent trips to the gas station or your mileage is lower than usual, it could be due to an issue with the catalytic converter.

Strange Smell Coming from the Exhaust

A failing catalytic converter may also produce unusual odors from the exhaust pipe. A common smell associated with catalytic converter problems is the scent of rotten eggs or sulfur. This smell often appears when the converter is no longer able to process sulfur compounds effectively, allowing them to reach the tailpipe and emit into the surrounding air. If you start noticing a sulfur-like smell, it’s a clear sign that the catalytic converter is not functioning as it should. This odor can become more pronounced when the engine is running at higher speeds or during acceleration.

Not only do these sulfur compounds smell bad and signal an issue in your catalytic converters, it can also be hazardous to breathe in. Unusual smells from your vehicle should always be taken seriously, as you shouldn’t be breathing in any fumes coming from your vehicle no matter the source of the odor. 

Unusual Engine Noises

If you hear strange noises coming from your engine, it could be related to a failing catalytic converter. A rattling or clunking sound is a common symptom when the internal components of the converter become damaged or broken. This noise can occur when pieces of the catalyst honeycomb material, which is typically made of precious metals, break loose and bounce around inside the converter as exhaust passes through. If you hear any unusual rattling or metallic sounds from the exhaust, it’s important to get your car checked out by a professional as soon as possible.

Engine Stalls or Misfires

When the catalytic converter gets clogged or damaged, it can cause an imbalance in the air-fuel mixture, leading to the engine receiving an improper ratio of air to fuel. This happens because the converter is unable to properly filter exhaust gases, which can then back up into the engine. The excess pressure can disrupt the combustion process, causing the engine to run unevenly or stall entirely. If your engine stalls frequently or struggles to start, it could be due to a failing catalytic converter.

Vehicle Fails Emissions Test

If you’re required to undergo regular emissions testing, such as here in Salt Lake County, a failing catalytic converter can cause your vehicle to fail the test. As the catalytic converter is responsible for reducing harmful emissions, a damaged or clogged converter can prevent it from doing its job properly and result in an increase of harmful emissions from your exhaust. If your vehicle is unable to pass a smog test, it could be a sign that the catalytic converter is no longer functioning effectively.

If this is the reason for your failure, the catalytic converter will require replacement before the vehicle is able to pass. 

Why Regular Maintenance Is Key

To keep your vehicle’s catalytic converter in good shape, regular maintenance is essential. Keeping up with routine oil changes, air filter replacements, and spark plug inspections can prevent unnecessary stress on the converter and the rest of your engine. Additionally, if you notice any of the symptoms mentioned above, addressing the issue promptly can help prevent more serious damage and save you from expensive repairs in the future.

Emissions & Exhaust Service in the Salt Lake Valley

Your catalytic converter is a vital part of your vehicle’s emissions and exhaust system. If you’re experiencing any of the signs mentioned above, contact the Euro vehicle emissions experts at Alex’s Autohaus in Midvale, Utah just south of Salt Lake City. Our team has extensive experience in repairing emissions components and ensuring our customers can pass upcoming emissions tests! Give us a call or schedule online with us today!