Catalytic converters usually fail because another engine problem exposes them to excess fuel, extreme heat, oil, coolant, carbon deposits, or physical damage. Misfires and rich fuel mixtures can overheat and melt the internal catalyst, while oil or coolant can coat the honeycomb and stop it from treating exhaust properly. A converter is built to handle…
You may be able to drive for a short period with a failing catalytic converter if the vehicle still runs normally and has no severe exhaust restriction, overheating, misfire, or exhaust leak. Driving becomes risky when the converter is clogged, glowing hot, causing major power loss, or allowing exhaust fumes near the passenger compartment. A…
A failing catalytic converter can cause a Check Engine Light, sluggish acceleration, reduced high-RPM power, rattling underneath the vehicle, sulfur-like exhaust odor, poor fuel economy, hard starting, rough running, or stalling. Some converters fail chemically with few drivability changes, while clogged or broken converters can create much stronger symptoms. The converter sits in the exhaust…
A catalytic converter is an emissions-control device installed in a vehicle’s exhaust system. It uses catalyst-coated internal material to change harmful combustion gases into less harmful substances before they leave the tailpipe. Gasoline vehicles commonly use converters that reduce carbon monoxide, unburned hydrocarbons, and nitrogen oxides. The converter does not work like a conventional filter…