A Stolen Catalytic Converter Will Produce the Following Problems
It might seem strange that catalytic converters are a hot-ticket item on the theft market, but they are made from precious metals that people want. Total Auto Care advises that your vehicle will act differently if someone stole your catalytic converter while it was parked in a parking lot. Let’s talk more about what will happen when the catalytic converter is missing below.
Check Engine Light Warning
The first thing that will happen is you will receive a check engine warning on the dashboard when you turn the key in the ignition or press the start button. You may not notice the check engine warning right away because of the next problem on our list. Nonetheless, you will have an illuminated check engine light until the catalytic converter is replaced.
An Extremely Loud Engine
The reason why you may not pay attention to the check engine light is that your engine will be unbelievably loud. It will also make roaring sounds that increase in volume when you accelerate. You cannot miss this sign of a missing catalytic converter. The engine noise will be overbearing.
Acceleration That Sputters
If you do decide to drive your automobile even though the catalytic converter has been stolen, you will notice that your acceleration has started to sputter. This is because the engine no longer has the catalytic converter to absorb the force of the exhaust being pushed out of the engine.
Sputtering When Going Slow
Your automobile will also sputter when you are driving at slow speeds because the engine is unable to produce torque. Although a missing catalytic converter does not affect high-end torque, it does affect low-end torque. Consequently, the engine will struggle until you pick up speed.
Excess Exhaust Hydrocarbons
Because the catalytic converter converts hydrocarbons into safer emissions, you will end up with excess hydrocarbons in your exhaust when the converter is no longer underneath your automobile. These high emissions will cause your vehicle to fail an emissions test if you must take one.
Feeling Sick When You Drive
The excess hydrocarbons can also make you feel sick when you drive your automobile. This is especially true if you have the windows down. You may not realize it but you are inhaling your vehicle’s exhaust that has carbon monoxide in it. This can be very dangerous.Total Auto Care in North Branch, MN, is here to help, so call us today so we can replace your stolen catalytic converter. Make sure to call the authorities and your insurance first.