Didn't pass your smog check? It may be due to several factors, one of those possibly being damage to your catalytic converter. Read below to learn how this part of your car works and why it is part of your car. Automotive Excellence Inc. is here to help you. We have a friendly and experienced staff ready.
Call us today 714-841-1285.
What does a Catalytic Converter do?
Over the years, automakers have made many refinements to car engines to keep up with the laws. One of these changes came about in 1975 with an interesting device called a catalytic converter. The job of the catalytic converter is to convert harmful pollutants into less harmful emissions before they ever leave the car's exhaust system. Catalytic converters are amazingly simple devices, so it is incredible to see how big an impact they have on our environment.
- Nitrogen gas (N2) - Air is 78-percent nitrogen gas, and most of this passes right through the car engine.
- Carbon dioxide (CO2) - This is one product of combustion. The carbon in the fuel bonds with the oxygen in the air.
- Water vapor (H2O) - This is another product of combustion. The hydrogen in the fuel bonds with the oxygen in the air.
Catalytic Converters Help Our Planet
These emissions are mostly harmless. Since the combustion process is never perfect, some smaller amounts of more harmful emissions are also produced in car engines. Catalytic converters are designed to reduce all three: The purpose of any catalytic converter is to reduce harmful emissions from the exhaust of a "properly tuned" combustion engine.
If the ceramic inside your converter becomes clogged or coated with carbon, lead or oil, then the converter’s efficiency is greatly reduced.
5 signs your catalytic converter may need attention
- Failed smog test
- Rattling noise (loose or broken catalyst)
- Rotten egg smell
- Loss of engine power
- Hard shifting or surging
