Your catalytic converter is an important part of your car’s emission control system. Its job is to convert harmful gases into less harmful ones before they exit the exhaust system. This helps reduce pollution and keep you and your passengers safe.
If your catalytic converter becomes damaged, it will need to be repaired or replaced. We’ll cover everything you need to know about catalytic converter repair, including the signs that your converter needs to be fixed, the average repair cost, and how to prolong the life of your converter.
Signs That Your Catalytic Converter Needs Repair
Your catalytic converter can become damaged for a number of reasons. The most common cause of damage is engine misfires. These occur when the air-fuel mixture in the cylinders doesn’t combust correctly. This can happen because of spark plug issues, fuel injector problems, or a vacuum leak.
Other causes of damage include:
- Driving on low-octane fuel
- Using leaded gasoline
- Overloading your vehicle
- Towing too much weight
- Off-roading
If your catalytic converter becomes damaged, you may notice one or more of the following symptoms:
- Reduced engine power
- Decreased fuel economy
- Dark smoke coming from the tailpipe
- An unusual smell coming from the tailpipe
If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s important to take your car to a mechanic as soon as possible for diagnosis and repair. Depending on the severity of the damage, your mechanic may be able to repair your catalytic converter. If the damage is too severe, they will need to replace it entirely.
In conclusion, a properly functioning catalytic converter is crucial for reducing emissions from your vehicle. If you think there may be an issue with yours, don’t hesitate to bring it to one of our expert mechanics for diagnosis and repair. A little bit of preventative maintenance can go a long way in prolonging the life of your catalytic converter and preventing expensive repairs.