A catalytic converter is used in the exhaust system as a site where oxidation and reduction of toxic by-products of fuel into less harmful substance take place. The very first catalytic converter was introduced in 1975 production of cars in the US. This is done as mandated by EPA regulations concerning toxic emissions reductions.
The US Clean Air Act stated that it is a must that the new models after 1975 production of cars should reduce the emissions of harmful chemicals by 75%. Catalytic converters were able to help in reducing dangerous gases like carbon monoxide, nitrogen oxide, and hydrocarbons. These gases are harmful to a human when inhaled and to plant life as well. This article will answer the questions you have about this issue.
What Are The Signs?
The catalytic converter has a honeycomb-like interior with chemicals that can change the composition of exhaust gasses passing into it. The residue accumulated on it can cause clogging and could affect the performance of the converter. Here are some signs that you can easily identify:
1. Poor Performance
A bad one can make it hard for the exhaust gasses to get through. The intake will likewise get affected. This only means that the entire system might be able to get the right airflow in requires to run smoothly. Your engine may have the tendency to stall when driving or you will have difficulty in accelerating immediately when the pedal is pressed.
2. Gas and Rotten Egg Smell
When the exhaust failed to burn the remaining hydrocarbon, it will cause fuel vapor to reach the tailpipe. The gas and rotten egg smell were produced when the HC particles degrade the internal catalytic converter panels.
3. Check Engine Light
CEL or Check Engine Light lights up after driving a short distance if the converter is not working. This component is not an actuator or a sensor, but most of the modern cars have data trouble codes directly associated with CAT.
4. Difficulties in Accelerating
A default catalytic converter will block the exhaust gases from the engine and may result in misfires that minimize the overall engine performance.
5. Increased in Emissions
A faulty one will increase emissions. If you are living in a place with smog checks, this could be a big problem. You may also fail emission testing.
6. Engine May Overheat
Having a clogged catalytic converter is similar to plugged muffler/exhaust. When the ceramic coating obtains the melting point, it could affect the normal flow of the exhaust gases. This could lead to overheating.
How to Check for a Clogged Catalytic Converter
If there is a sign that it’s clogged, you need to apply some tests on the system. A vacuum test is one of the most popular tests used by experts on checking the catalytic converter. To do this, you need a vacuum gauge. Here are the steps you can follow in performing the vacuum test:
- If your car is manual make sure the transmission is set to neutral. For cars with an automatic system, you need to park it first. Then, apply the parking brake.
- The vacuum hose should be disconnected from the brake power booster. Then attach the vacuum measuring device directly to the intake manifold port or to the hose.
- Turn on the engine and keep it running for around 15 to 20 minutes until it reaches the required temperature.
- While idle check the vacuum reading, it read at least 18 up to 22 inches of Mercury.
- Let the speed reach up to 3000rpm. This time the vacuum measurement drops but will return to the previous level within a few seconds. If not, it is most likely that there is a problem with your exhaust system.
- Redo the test, but you have to open the throttle valve. Do this four times and increase the engine speed to 2500rpm. On every snap of the throttle, record the vacuum reading.
- If you notice the gauge needle is dropping to almost zero, it means your muffler or catalytic converter is restricted.
- To check if there is really a restriction, loosen the back pipe enough to let the gas flow freely.
- Redo step number six. If in case the vacuum does not drop, you already found the problem. If not continue with the succeeding step.
- Unscrew the header exhaust pipe just enough to let the exhaust gas flow freely.
- Do step number six again and record the vacuum readings. In case, it shows a normal vacuum, it means the converter is clogged up or restricted.
How Long Can You Drive with a Bad Catalytic Converter
You can usually drive your car indefinitely even with a partially clogged converter, but it will affect its performance. If the converter is in extreme cases, then you are restricted to drive it. By this time your converter might be completely fused and requires immediate replacement. Never drive your car if the converter is completely plugged, particularly if you are living in an area with smog checks.
What Happens If You Don’t Replace Yours?
You know how much it will cost you if your car needs a new converter. Some of you will continue to use the vehicle until you have enough funds to replace it. You are not aware that once the car becomes contaminated, physically damaged, clogged or overheated, your engine will perform less and it will lead to engine shutdown. If you do not replace yours, right away it could damage the other parts of your vehicle particularly the engine.
Is It Possible to Drive a Car Without a Catalytic Converter?
You can still drive a car without a catalytic converter installed. The main function of a car is to clean up the emissions. It does not help the engine run in any way, but the engine can be greatly affected if the cat becomes clogged up or restricted.
Conclusions
A broken catalytic converter may not affect the function of your vehicle. However, if you have a fully plugged catalytic, you should avoid driving your car. In some areas, it is not legal to drive a car with a clogged up catalytic converter as it releases smog that is harmful to the environment. If this is the case, then you need to replace yours right away.