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What are the Symptoms of a Bad Catalytic Converter?

April 26, 2023

Blog | One Stop Auto Care

A catalytic converter is an exhaust emission control device located in a vehicle's exhaust system. The device is designed to reduce harmful pollutants, such as carbon monoxide, hydrocarbons, and nitrogen oxides, by converting them into less harmful substances. A bad catalytic converter can cause a variety of problems in a vehicle. These issues include poor engine performance, increased emissions, and poor fuel economy.


Reduced Engine Power and Acceleration

A bad catalytic converter can result in reduced engine power and acceleration due to a number of reasons. Firstly, the catalytic converter helps to reduce harmful emissions from the engine by converting pollutants into less harmful gases. When a catalytic converter is damaged, it can no longer efficiently convert pollutants, leading to an increase in emissions from the engine. This increase in emissions can lead to the engine having to work harder to produce the same power and acceleration, resulting in reduced engine power and performance.


Increased Exhaust Emissions

Catalytic converters are a vital part of a vehicle's exhaust system, as they reduce the amount of toxic substances released into the environment. When a catalytic converter fails, it can no longer effectively reduce the amount of toxic substances released into the environment. As a result, these toxic substances are expelled into the atmosphere in higher concentrations, which can lead to an increase in both visible and invisible exhaust emissions. Yellow smoke is often observed coming from the tailpipe, and the smoke may have a sulfur-like odor. In some cases, the smoke can be accompanied by a rattling noise from the exhaust.


Increased Fuel Consumption

A bad catalytic converter can cause increased fuel consumption due to the lack of oxygen in the exhaust system. This means that the fuel molecules will not be efficiently burned, causing a loss of energy and an increase in fuel consumption. Additionally, due to the lack of oxygen, the fuel will not be completely burned, resulting in a greater amount of unburned fuel in the exhaust. This can cause a decrease in engine power, as well as increased emissions.
If you need catalytic converter or other exhaust repairs, give One Stop Auto Care a call today!

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