The catalytic converter on your vehicle typically lasts for about 10 years. However, some may last longer and some may have a shorter lifespan. The catalytic converter is an expensive part, and as such, should only be replaced when yours is going bad. Learning what signs your car may give you if this part is going bad can help you determine when to bring it to an auto repair shop for replacement.
Your Check Engine Light Comes On
Most people assume that their check engine light only comes on if something is wrong with the engine. This is not the case. Your check engine light may come on if your catalytic converter is going bad. Your catalytic converter sits between the engine and the muffler, helping to convert emissions from the engine into safer, cleaner ones. As it is close to the engine, a bad catalytic converter can trigger the check engine light.
Poor Engine Performance
One of the problems that you may experience if your catalytic converter is nearing the end of its lifespan is poor engine performance. Many people state that their car feels shaky while it is being operated, and may feel like it is sputtering or about to stall when the car comes to a stop at stoplights or stop signs. Unfortunately, poor engine performance can be linked to many different car issues, so if you are experiencing this, you will want to bring your vehicle to a car repair shop for an inspection.
Dark Smoke Coming From the Exhaust
A common sign that your catalytic converter may be going bad is dark smoke coming from the exhaust of your vehicle. The catalytic converter helps to clean emissions from your engine. When it is cracked or damaged, it can no longer do that, and black smoke comes out of the exhaust. Your car will fail a smog check, and you will likely see this dark smoke, especially when you start your car.
A Sulfur or Rotten Egg Smell Coming From the Exhaust
One of the tell-tale signs that your catalytic converter is no longer functional is a scent that smells like sulfur or rotten eggs coming from the exhaust of your vehicle. If you smell either of these scents, your catalytic converter is not cleaning the emissions from the engine, which is why this scent is present. This is a giveaway that your catalytic converter has reached the end of its lifespan and needs to be replaced as soon as possible.
If you suspect your catalytic converter is going bad, or you know for certain it is, you should bring your vehicle in to a car repair shop. An auto repair shop can examine the catalytic converter and definitively determine if it is going bad and get to work replacing it. Here at Morgan Automotive Repair, we can help you with all of your vehicle repair and maintenance needs, including testing and replacing catalytic converters. Schedule an appointment with us today to bring your vehicle in.