Did you know that 90 % of vehicles have internal combustion engines installed in them? These internal combustions help the car work smoothly, release harmful chemicals, and negatively impact the environment. Catalytic Converter, also known as “Cat,” in short, prevents these emissions from degrading the environment and has become the most significant advancement in the automobile industry. Like other car parts and accessories, the catalytic converters go bad, and replacement is the only way to fix the issue. Let us discuss this pivotal car component in detail and take steps to fix the issue.
Benefits of Having a Catalytic Converter in a Car
Many of you might have underestimated the advantages of a catalytic converter.We have come with the list of benefits that are definitely going to change your mind:
Significant Drop in Harmful Emissions
The Converter generally eliminates harmful gases, including Carbon Monoxide and Nitrous oxide. The former is reduced by 85 percent, while the latter drops by 62 percent. These harmful emissions degrade the environment, and clearing them would make the environment safe.
Eradicates Dangerous Gases
Lead was a primary ingredient of gasoline. Studies reveal that the gas has detrimental implications on human health, so it must be removed. With the arrival of these converters, the toxic substance lead has been completely removed.
Making the Engines More Fuel Efficient
The introduction of catalytic converters has paved the way for the research of fuel-efficient engines. This is good news for the consumers as they are getting better engines along with the catalytic converters.
Lifespan of a Catalytic Converter
The lifespan of a catalytic converter is generally determined by your driving.Lots of driving can deteriorate the quality of the converter.The cost surges as the converter needs to be replaced quite often.It lasts between 70,000 to 100,000 miles and needs a catalytic converter replacement in case of issues.
Signs of a Clogged Catalytic Converter
Catalytic converters are a significant component of the vehicle’s emissions which are meant to last for a longer duration. Unfortunately, these converters clog over time, and the gases cannot exit from the car’s rear and front end. Not only this, even the engine doesn’t receive an adequate amount of air to fuel mixture. This is when the catalytic Converter fails to do a task delegated to it. Let us go through the common signs and find appropriate catalytic converter fix:
#Sign 1: Starting the Car Becomes a Hassle
You face trouble while starting a car with a clogged catalytic converter. It is so as the Converter holds the exhaust gases that start coming out of the car. Initially, the car may seem fine to you and begins sputtering and stalling due to clogged catalytic converters.
#Sign 2:Not Getting Good Fuel Efficiency
Has your vehicle started consuming more fuel? Are you curious to know about decreased fuel economy? Even if the vehicle has gallons of fuel, you’ll still be able to cover a limited distance within your vehicle.
#Sign 3:An Illuminating Check Engine Light
An illuminating warning light indicates a clogged catalytic converter. This light is generally triggered by air to fuel sensors, indicating that the tailpipe releases copious pollution. However, another car component is sometimes the underlying cause of failure, and a catalytic converter fix can be suggested after inspecting the car.
#Sign 4: Failed Vehicle Emission Test
The vehicle emission test fails in the case of a clogged catalytic converter. Vehicle emission tests are performed every year in certain countries, and fines are imposed when emissions are suspected. The common reasons behind failed tests are surge carbon emissions, contaminated antifreeze, motor oil issues, or other concerns.
#Sign 5:Poor Vehicle Acceleration
Poor acceleration is another reason that indicates that the Converter has clogged. During this, the red flag’s performance and efficiency are reduced and the exhaust traps at the front of the Converter. Complete stalling or jerking takes place as the fuel is unable to reach the engine. The best part is issues like these are treatable that must be performed before it damages other components present in the car.
If you notice any of the signs mentioned below, resolve the issue instead of delaying or ignoring it. Otherwise, spending money on costly repairs in the future would burn a hole in your pocket.
The Bottom Line
A problematic catalytic converter not only degrades the environment but also impedes the working of the engine. Get rid of the problematic converter by replacing it with a new one and help the car work optimally.