What does the Catalytic Converter do?
The catalytic converter is an exhaust component that reduces the emissions your engine produces. It reduces the amount of carbon monoxide (a green house gas) produced by your engine by converting it into carbon dioxide. It also converts nitrogen oxides back into nitrogen and oxygen. The catalytic converter is located underneath your vehicle, between the engine and the exhaust. All modern vehicles must feature catalytic converters to comply with emission requirements.
It is not unusual for a catalytic converter to fail, due to its external location and sensitivity to the “state of tune” of the engine. The catalytic converter will be subject to bumps, debris and impacts, as well as different engine running conditions such as rich and lean air / fuel mixtures. When it fails, you may notice several symptoms that directly affect your exhaust system.
Symptoms of Catalytic Converter Damage
Check Engine Light
A failing catalytic converter will cause the Check Engine light to turn on. The oxygen sensors in vehicles are designed to monitor the oxygen levels in the exhaust system. If the catalytic converter is not converting gases correctly, the sensor will detect this problem and warn the driver.
Decreased Performance
A damaged catalytic converter can directly affect the performance of your vehicle. The problem can affect the circulation on air in your engine, reducing its power and causing the vehicle to struggle. For example, if the honey comb inside the catalytic convertor breaks apart, it can cause an internal blockage. This can lead to increased back pressure in the exhaust system where the engine may either not start properly, or start and run for a short time and then stop.
Increased Fuel Consumption
When the catalytic converter malfunctions, you may notice an increase in the amount of fuel your vehicle uses. This is because your vehicle’s air / fuel mixture is offset.
Increased Emissions
A failing catalytic converter will not be able to clean emissions as effectively, resulting in an increase of carbon emissions from your exhaust. You may notice a larger amount of black smoke coming out of your exhaust
Catalytic Converter Servicing in Hamilton
At Grimmer Motors, our qualified, experienced and skilled mechanics use the latest scan tool technology to accurately and cost effectively diagnose your exhaust system, determining if the catalytic converter is the source of the problem. We can then provide expert advice and services to fix the problem and get your vehicle running healthily again. For reliable catalytic converter replacement in Hamilton, contact Grimmer Motors today!
Please Note – we don’t generally stock or supply just “parts only” for this service. We are a general automotive repair workshop. If you are able to bring your vehicle to us, we can diagnose the problem, find and fit the necessary parts, or organise the appropriate service for you.