If your check engine light has turned on and refuses to turn off, it’s possible that the catalytic converter is malfunctioning. This exhaust system part does not have a warning light of its own. As such, if something goes wrong, the engine control module turns on the check engine light. Miller Brothers Auto Repair advises that this is just one sign that the catalytic converter is going bad. Here are other signs.
Problems With the Engine Performance
The most common problem a catalytic converter faces is getting clogged by carbon and sulfur deposits. As the catalytic converter treats the engine’s exhaust, the carbon and sulfur are deposited on the honeycomb inside the converter. Once the catalytic converter is clogged, the exhaust will be unable to flow through it and out of the exhaust system. Rather, it will build up inside the combustion chamber and cause your engine performance and vehicle acceleration to lag.
A Serious Reduction in Fuel Economy
This creates a problem with your automobile’s fuel economy. The harder the engine has to work in an effort to generate power, the more fuel it will burn. Unfortunately, you will have poor fuel economy until the underlying problem, the clogged catalytic converter, is replaced.
Engine Exhaust That Is Black
The catalytic converter treats your engine’s exhaust so that it is clear when it is released out of the tailpipe. If the catalytic converter is malfunctioning, you may end up with black exhaust coming out of the tailpipe. This can be a sign that the catalytic converter has indirectly affected the balance between the air and fuel in the combustion chamber. If there is too much fuel in the chamber, your automobile will release black exhaust.
Exhaust That Smells Like Burning Sulfur
In addition, this exhaust will smell like burning sulfur. If you did not already know this, burning sulfur smells like rotten eggs. Any time the exhaust has this odor in it, it’s a safe bet that the catalytic converter is malfunctioning.
A Ton of Heat Under the Vehicle
Finally, when the catalytic converter goes bad, it can release excess heat underneath your automobile. Unfortunately, this heat rises into the engine and causes temperature problems in the engine. Your engine will overheat constantly until you replace the catalytic converter.
Miller Brothers Auto Repair in Somerset, WI, would be happy to inspect and replace your catalytic converter. Call us today for an appointment.