A catalytic converter has been attached to every vehicle manufactured in the U.S. since 1975. They’re designed and engineered to reduce pollution by converting dangerous chemicals into less harmful ones. Over time, your converter can get blocked or damaged, and you’ll need a replacement. These are some of the signs that your converter has a problem.
Signs You Need a New Catalytic Converter
Sulfur Smell
The strong rotten egg smell of sulfur is a sign that your converter is failing. Hydrogen sulfide is a byproduct of combustion. The sulfide and other chemicals are dumped into the exhaust system by the cylinders. In the cylinders, hydrogen sulfide is converted into harmless sulfur dioxide by combining heat, pressure, and chemical reactions.
The excessive amount of sulfur is caused by a high fuel-air mix in your engine. A high fuel-air mix in the engine means that most fuel won’t burn. Unburnt fuel will be forced into the exhaust system, where it can damage the converter. A damaged converter won’t be able to convert the hydrogen sulfide, which you’ll smell as it seeps from the exhaust.
Check Engine Light
The check engine light on your dash is connected to a multitude of sensors. These sensors are attached throughout your car and monitor components for signs of problems or failures. If a problem is detected, the check engine light will respond. Several problems with the converter can cause this light to come on.
If the converter becomes blocked due to carbon buildup, the engine gas that should flow out of the exhaust will be drawn back into the engine. In the engine, these gases will create a wasteful high fuel-air mix. Sensors will register the decreased amount of oxygen in your engine and the increased amount of fuel. The backflow of gases also raises the heat and pressure in your engine, which will also register.
The Converter Is Blue
You can examine the converter to get an idea of its condition. Most of the converter isn’t visible, but you’ll be able to check its color. If the converter is blue, it has been subjected to excessively high temperatures and is damaged. A blocked air filter or a bad oxygen sensor can lead to a fuel-rich environment in your engine.
As we’ve seen, much of the engine’s fuel doesn’t burn in a fuel-rich environment. The hot, unburnt fuel is dumped into the converter. The heat in the converter can cause the unburnt fuel to burn, creating additional damage to the converter.
If you’re having problems with your converter, see us at DARCARS Used Car & Service Center of Frederick.
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