the converter catalytic converter is part of your vehicle’s exhaust system and its main function is to reduce the pollution that is produced by expelling exhaust gases to the outside. In this way, the environmental impact of polluting emissions produced by motor vehicles is reduced.
The catalytic converter starts working when the exhaust gases from the engine they heat it red hot. Thus, unburned hydrocarbon particles, nitrogen oxide and carbon monoxide (CO) produced by combustion are captured and begin to react.
Definitely, the catalytic converter performs very important functions for the proper functioning of the car and for the care of the environment. That is why you should always take care of it and be aware of when it stops serving.
That’s why, Here we tell you four signs that your car’s catalytic converter no longer works.
1.- Slow acceleration
If you notice your engine suddenly experiencing a dramatic loss of power and you can’t rev up like you used to, you may be experiencing one of the most common symptoms of a clogged catalytic converter.
Your engine’s ability to take in clean air and expel exhaust gases are linked: a blockage in the exhaust interrupts this process. If you have a clogged converter, your engine won’t mix air and fuel efficiently enough, resulting in less powerful combustion and power, and poor acceleration.
2.- High fuel consumption
A bad catalytic converter usually means poor fuel efficiency. Your engine relies on O2 sensors to properly mix oxygen and fuel – a clog can cause the sensor to think it’s getting more air than it is, subsequently injecting more fuel than it can actually use in the process.
3.- Different smell
When your catalytic converter is working as it should, all the chemicals and gases your vehicle produces inside the exhaust system are converted into safe compounds. However, if you are having catalytic converter issues, you will often notice the smell of rotten eggs or sulfur coming from your exhaust.
4.- Motor that fails
The performance of your engine and your vehicle depends on the complete combustion of the fuel. A faulty catalytic converter will cause incomplete combustion within the ignition cylinders, leading to an engine misfire and making it difficult for your car to start.
Anytime you notice frequent engine misfiring, you are experiencing the signs of a faulty catalytic converter that needs replacement.
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