Your vehicle is an important asset. After all, if it weren’t, you probably wouldn’t have one. For this reason, it is important to keep your eyes peeled for any signs that suggest it needs some mechanical attention. Most parts and systems can be easily protected and replaced with little cost. But when it comes to the more complex and important systems in your vehicle, like the catalytic converter and engine, it is better to catch their needs early on, before the cost to repair them gets out of control.

Engines will show obvious signs, including indicator lamp warnings on the dashboard. But when it comes to catalytic converters, the signs are more subtle. Fortunately, with a little knowledge, you will know exactly what to look out for, and what to do when it happens.

Continue reading to learn the top signs that you need to replace your catalytic converter, and how to sell your old one for cash on the spot.

What Does a Catalytic Converter Do?

Before you can learn to spot the signs of catalytic converter mechanical failure, it helps to learn how this vital auto part works in the first place. By understanding the basic operation of a catalytic converter, you will be naturally more in tune with any signs that might pop up.

A catalytic converter is an advanced exhaust emission control device used to reduce carbon monoxide (CO), volatile organic compounds (VOC’s), nitrogen oxides, and similar pollutants produced by automotive engines and fuel. Simply put, they are the automotive component responsible for transforming the harmful emissions into less harmful ones, before exiting the vehicle’s exhaust system.

Fun fact: Catalytic converters operate by using metal catalysts, generally consisting of one or more valuable metals, like platinum, rhodium, palladium, and even gold. This precious metal content is what makes catalytic converters so expensive, and so valuable.

Signs of a Failing Catalytic Converter:

⚙ Your Engine is Sluggish or Problematic – If your engine seems like it is not working like it used to, it could be due to a mechanical failure within the catalytic converter. In fact, decreased engine performance is often the very first sign to show up when a catalytic converter is having problems. Usually, the Check Engine Light illuminates on the dash. A blockage or crack within the exhaust system can cause the engine to have poor fuel efficiency, slow acceleration, or power issues.

⚙ Your Check Engine Light is On. As mentioned, one of the very first signs you will likely notice when your catalytic converter is malfunctioning is seeing the Check Engine Light, also known as a Malfunctioning Indicator Lamp (MIL). This light is programmed to come on when anything within your vehicle’s systems is affecting the engine’s performance. A common catalytic converter malfunction that causes the Check Engine Light to come on is when it is not catalyzing the exhaust gases correctly.

⚙ Your Car is Rattling When it Runs. Hearing rattling noises while the engine is running, whether moving or at an idle, is a common indication that something is going wrong with the exhaust system. More times than not, it is due to the catalytic converter corroding or coming apart.

What to Do With an Old Catalytic Converter in Louisville, Kentucky

Call GC’s Junk Cars at 502-804-5605 if you have a junk car or broken auto part to sell in Louisville and its surrounding areas. Not only do we accept all vehicles, regardless of age, make, model, and condition, our Louisville Kentucky cash for cars company also payout the highest returns for junk vehicles in Kentucky. Just accept our offer and we will come pick up your junk car! Contact us today to request a free estimate! Sorry, we do not accept catalytic converters or tires.