How To Find Out If My Catalytic Converter Is Bad

November 29th, 2022 by

Group 1 Kia South Austin invites you to find out if your catalytic converter is bad.

You can’t name many parts of a car that outperforms the importance of the Catalytic Converter. Because of the role it has any time you crank the ignition, a perfectly-running Catalytic Converter may be unnoticed just because you may not have thought of it. However, the catalytic converter’s purpose is to turn potentially troubling elements from your engine into less harmful emissions in an effort to enhance the quality of air while also lowering pollution and breathing illnesses in some cases. Placed in most cars in the 1970s, Catalytic Converters are laced using precious elements that turn engine emissions into elements that are better for people to breathe in. Similar to most parts of a car, the Catalytic Converter can go bad, and it might be a big issue for the performance and health of your engine.

Driving with A Failed Catalytic Converter

If you’re thinking about driving with a bad Catalytic Converter, just be aware that you shouldn’t do it for long. If you’re noticing slow engine performance, lowered acceleration, a smell of sulfur or spoiled eggs from the exhaust, dark exhaust smoke, or extreme heat coming from under the vehicle, they are symptoms of a clogged Catalytic Converter, and it needs to be repaired soon. If you notice any of these symptoms when you’re on the road, you should have them replaced since they can cause problems for your vehicle’s powertrain. These issues could lead to total engine failure, which is way worse than any annoying odors or noises.

What’s The Lifespan Of A Catalytic Converter?

Catalytic Converters should last at least 10 years, but they don’t need to be replaced once those 10 years are up. It just has to get replaced when you begin to see these issues occur and if it’s suggested by our service technicians. Over many years, the Catalytic Converter can break down because it’s clogged, contaminated, or even physically damaged. So it would be best to hold off the 10 years, or if you have premonitions that you have a clogged catalytic converter, then have it personally looked at before thinking about getting it replaced.

How Much Will It Cost To Change A Catalytic Converter?

Due to the importance of the Catalytic Converter and the role it plays in the vehicle, unfortunately, the replacement cost can end up getting expensive. Based on the age of the vehicle plus the model and make, the cost of a catalytic converter repair could vary very much. So, if you have any signs of a damaged catalytic converter, take it to our well-equipped service technicians. We’ll make sure the vehicle’s Catalytic Converter is being taken care of and in prime condition; it’ll help the car run much better in the long run.

Schedule Service at Group 1 Kia South Austin

Now that you know how to find out if your catalytic converter is bad, stop by and see the experts at Group 1 Kia South Austin for your next car service in Austin. You can meet with our service team and get your vehicle assessed to make sure it is operating at its best. Visit us online or in person to schedule your appointment.

 

Posted in Service