Catalytic converters are an expected part of all new vehicles and are legally mandated regardless of the car’s age. This device serves to protect the environment and the lungs of people around the engine. If you suspect your catalytic is on its last legs, check out this list and see if you have any of these common signs it’s going out before visiting your Kia Dealer.
1. Strange Noises
Converters contain a porcelain base and layers of honeycomb mesh that consists of precious metal, normally something like gold or palladium. The layers intake the exhaust gases and catalyze them into less harmful forms. Unfortunately, this mesh can be subject to all sorts of damage from age or improper fuel-to-air mixtures.
If the mesh has been worn down too far the edges can break loose and the freed layers will bounce around inside of the device case, creating a loud rattling noise. This sound will be especially apparent when first turning on the engine and will be heard from beneath the vehicle. If the sound is more like a roar, however, this can mean you’ve lost your catalytic altogether.
2. The Engine Light Has Flicked On
These days, vehicles are expected to have a converter as part of the fuel system and the calculations for mixing fuel and air are created with this assumption. When the converter has become clogged the air won’t be able to pass through properly, resulting in the oxygen probes located on the tailpipe detecting the incorrect mixture and returning an error.
Alternatively, if the converter is missing, the probes will detect too much air and still return the error. While it is possible to drive a vehicle in this condition, it is not legal to do so. If you discover it is missing, be sure to replace it quickly to avoid failing an emissions test and to allow your fuel system the ability to calculate properly.
3. Sulfur Scent From the Tailpipe
An aged converter will eventually become blocked if it has not been serviced, and this can lead to a lack of airflow through the engine. Without fresh air entering the manifold to combine with gas, combustion won’t occur and unused fuel particles will exit the exhaust pipe. Unburnt fuel contains sulfur molecules, so if they aren’t utilized you may notice a rotten egg smell from the back of your car.
Getting your converter replaced is easy with the right dealership and provides a multitude of benefits back to you without much additional effort. Keeping this device updated and clean will help save the atmosphere and ensure you are driving legally. Visit Crain Kia of Conway today to update your converter and rest easy knowing your fuel system is in knowledgeable hands.
Image via Kia.
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