Car Acting Up? | 3 Signs Your Catalytic Converter is Failing

The catalytic converter is a part of your car that looks like a muffler, but provides a very different and important function. The converter is part of your vehicle’s exhaust system that works with the engine to expel hazardous gasses, so when it fails, it’s bad news for your car and the air. Here are some signs that you are having catalytic converter problems, so you can get it repaired immediately.

Rattling Noises

The catalytic converter is located between the engine and exhaust muffler under the car, and it’s uncommon for them to suffer problems from external damage like road debris. If you hear a rattling noise from under your car, it is likely the converter components breaking apart inside of the housing, and it is now making these sounds.

Overheating and Melting

If you have an engine system misfire, it can cause the catalyst to overheat. Also, if you have a fuel mixture that is exceptionally rich, similar symptoms will arise. The extra rich mixture of raw fuel enters the catalytic converter, where it becomes ignited. Either of these situations can cause overheating, which leads to parts of the catalytic converter actually melting.

Poor Engine Performance

When the catalytic converter’s performance begins to slow because of a problem, exhaust starts to get trapped in front of the catalyst. Problems like this are caused by back pressure that will negatively affect how your engine runs, and it will actually stop “breathing”. This then leads to stalling when you drive, a jerking sensation or the feeling that there is no fuel getting to the engine when you push down on the gas. You will also notice a reduction in fuel economy.

If you suspect your vehicle is suffering from catalytic converter problems, contact our service department and schedule an appointment as soon as possible.