Is It Time to Service Your Catalytic Converter?
There is plenty of talk in the media about sustainability, especially when it comes to conventional cars and trucks. If you share some of those concerns, you may want to ensure that your vehicle is always in good condition and contributes as little as possible to the bigger problem. With this in mind, you should ensure that your anti-contamination devices are in good condition and may need to carry out a certain amount of servicing work to ensure that they are.
The Challenge of Harmful Deposits
When combating pollution, one of the most important devices on your car is the catalytic converter. This device sits in the vehicle's exhaust system and helps manage burned gases as they leave the engine. The catalytic converter converts those gases into much less harmful elements which can be released into the atmosphere without worry. So it will help combat the negative effects of nitrogen oxides, carbon monoxide and other hydrocarbons.
Converter in Action
Catalytic converters have been around for a long time and work very well. Still, they may lose their efficiency as they get older, especially if you drive a lot each year. In the worst-case scenario, a clogged catalytic converter could lead to an engine failure, but it'll certainly be less efficient than it should be in this situation.
Tell-Tale Signs
When a "cat" (as they are often called) begins to deteriorate, you will notice issues with performance. Your car or truck may be slow to accelerate, and you may certainly pay more at the pump. Sometimes, you will smell some sulphur from the exhaust, which is similar to a rotten egg smell. And if your vehicle is subject to an emissions test, it may well fail.
Pre-Emptive Action
There are several ways to avoid this problem in the first place. When you keep up with your regularly scheduled maintenance, a mechanic will be able to discover any engine and fuel delivery problems that could lead to a damaged catalytic converter if otherwise left unchecked. For this reason, you'll certainly want to avoid a buildup of carbon within the combustion chambers.
Extra Warning
Should your catalytic converter have become clogged, you may also notice the check engine light on your dashboard. This could be linked to several issues, but your mechanic will find out when they scan the vehicle and interpret the trouble code.
Take Action
It is possible to service a catalytic converter so long as there is no damage within. It will need to be removed and cleaned by an experienced professional to get rid of any deposits within. So, if you suspect that your "cat" may be in need of some attention, get in touch with your mechanic for further advice.
Reach out to a local car service to learn more.
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