Your exhaust is made up of different things and one portion of it is the catalytic converter. It serves different purposes and while they don’t go bad often when it happens, you may experience a lot of different problems. If you do notice that your catalytic converter is going bad or if you are noticing problems with your car and you want to have it checked out, you may want to consider taking it to a Mesa, AZ auto repair shop. You may get your catalytic converter replaced or repaired so your car is fixed. Here are some signs that it’s time to do so.
Check Engine Light
The check engine light is an integral part of modern vehicles. A sensor will trigger this light when it detects something wrong with your car – this is when the catalytic converter will fail. Your catalytic converter operates within tolerance levels as it is monitored by oxygen and air/fuel sensors in more recent engines. Whenever you drive with a bad catalytic converter, your car’s internal computer will detect it and cause your check engine light to come on. However, this is one of the easiest ways to troubleshoot a catalytic converter, because your sensors don’t always detect the problem right away.
Lost Power
One of the most common symptoms of a clogged catalytic converter is sudden loss of power and difficulty accelerating. A clog in the exhaust system prevents your engine from taking in clean air and exhaling exhaust gas. When your converter is clogged, your engine won’t mix air and fuel efficiently, resulting in low combustion power, poor acceleration, and inefficient use of fuel. Your car may continue to lose power as the catalytic converter becomes worse.
Poor Gas Mileage
Is your fuel tank getting filled up more often than it used to be? Poor fuel efficiency is likely to result from a defective catalytic converter. Your engine relies on the sensors to create the perfect mixture that your car needs to run properly. If the buildup becomes to bad, it can cause your catalytic converter to break down and may even cause your to fail your emissions test or may cause your exhaust to stop working as it should. If you notice a change in your fuel efficiency suddenly, it may be due to a bad catalytic converter nad you may need to have it repaired or replaced.
If you believe that your catalytic converter may be broken or may have gone bad, you should arrange to take your vehicle to a Mesa, AZ auto repair. Here you will be able to have it inspected and repaired or replaced if necessary. If you are in need of a repair shop to work on your car, be sure to reach out to us for help. Call today and make an appointment to have your car inspected, repaired, or to learn more about our services. We are here to help with all your auto repair needs.