6 COMMON SYMPTOMS OF A BAD CATALYTIC CONVERTER -

A bad catalytic converter is a rare problem, but when it happens, it causes various problems with the engine and other systems on the car.

The catalytic converter is a part of the exhaust system that has the task of cleansing the exhaust fumes coming from the engine.

Think of it as a high-tech filter with precious metals inside it that help turn polluting exhaust fumes into less harmful elements.

When it starts malfunctioning, it can cause an array of problems, and this video should help you notice this problem on time.

Besides this website, you can also watch videos on our YouTube channel, where we have many car-related videos that may help with maintenance, driving, etc.

SYMPTOMS OF A BAD CATALYTIC CONVERTER

1. REDUCED ENGINE PERFORMANCE

If your engine’s exhaust is clogged or blocked in any way, there will be reduced engine performance.

This is probably the first symptom of a bad catalytic converter you’ll notice.

Depending on how damaged the catalytic converter is, the lack of engine performance can be anything from barely noticeable to the engine losing almost all power.

2. HIGHER FUEL CONSUMPTION

The reduced engine performance will inevitably lead to higher fuel consumption and lower gas mileage.

You’ll notice a significant rise in the consumption, which can, in more severe cases, even double.

3. THE CHECK ENGINE LIGHT APPEARS

At this time, the check engine light will probably appear. Usually, in these cases, it comes up intermittently, but as the problem gets worse, it’s on all the time.

If you were to connect an OBD tool, you would probably get a 0420 code.

Also, in case of a bad catalytic converter, if you were to try and erase the code and reset the check engine light, it would soon return.

For more information about the check engine problem, click here.

4. ENGINE MISFIRE

Another more dramatic symptom of a bad catalytic converter is the appearance of engine misfire.

The exhaust fumes cannot properly exit the engine due to a clogged or damaged converter.

This then interferes with the combustion and causes misfires in one or more engine cylinders.

You’ll easily notice this as the engine has a mild tremble or, in worst cases of engine misfire, will shake from side to side.

If you want to read more about the most common symptoms of an engine misfire, click here.

5. A SULFUR SMELL IS COMING FROM THE EXHAUST

One more symptom is a very distinct bad smell from the exhaust when you start the engine.

It resembles the smell of rotten eggs and sulfur, so you can’t miss it.

6. SOUNDS FROM THE EXHAUST (RATTLING, WHISTLING)

Finally, you may also notice strange sounds coming from the exhaust, especially while driving and while in higher revs.

You may hear a whistling sound when accelerating.

Also, if the catalytic converter is seriously damaged and if the inner components have collapsed, you may hear a disturbing rattling sound coming from the exhaust.

CONCLUSION

Perhaps the worst aspect of a bad catalytic converter is that it is very costly to replace.

This is especially a problem for older high-mileage cars, where there is no economic sense whatsoever to make a replacement.

But if the converter blocks the exhaust fumes, you’ll have to replace it; otherwise, the car will be undrivable, and you can eventually damage the engine.