If your car’s engine is really loud and the automobile failed the smog check, we hate to say it but it sounds as if your catalytic converter has been stolen. Head to MMS Automotive right away so we can take a look underneath the vehicle to see if the converter has been sawed out. If it has, we can replace it, but you should call your auto insurance company first because they might pay for it.
Check Engine Light
Another sign that your catalytic converter has been stolen is an illuminated check engine light on the dashboard. Unfortunately, the missing catalytic converter causes numerous malfunctions in the exhaust system and engine performance problems, which we will talk more about below. As such, the engine control unit turns on the check engine warning light because of the malfunctions.
Loud Engine
As we mentioned in the title of this blog post, your engine will roar loudly when the catalytic converter is missing. This is partially the sound of the exhaust being forced out of the engine and into open space. Normally, the exhaust is forced into the catalytic converter, and the converter absorbs much of the noise. Because it is gone, you hear the full noise of this process.
Jerky Acceleration
Your automobile’s acceleration will also jerk and sputter due to this force. Unfortunately, there’s no way to smooth out the acceleration except by replacing the catalytic converter. Again, we can do this at our shop. This being said, it’s an excellent idea to contact the authorities to report the theft and, again, your auto insurance company to see if the theft is covered.
Slow-Speed Trouble
Another problem with engine performance will be an inability to operate smoothly when you are driving at slower speeds. You will notice that the engine smooths out as you pick up speed. Unfortunately, the missing catalytic converter affects the engine’s ability to produce the torque it needs when you are driving slowly.
Strong Exhaust Odors
Finally, in all seriousness, we don’t recommend that you drive your automobile if the catalytic converter is gone. Part of the reason why the vehicle failed the smog check is that you have excess hydrocarbons in your exhaust that are dangerous and left untreated because you don’t have a catalytic converter. Consequently, if the exhaust makes its way into your vehicle, you will get seriously ill.
MMS Automotive in South Bay, CA, is here to help, so call us today so we can replace the catalytic converter.
