As the component that converts over 90% of harmful emissions into safer compounds, your catalytic converter is essential to the health of your car and of the planet. But if it isn’t functioning at peak capacity, it’ll also impact your driving experience. Here are some of the ways you can recognize when it’s time to schedule a service at your Lexus dealer for a replacement.
Time To Contact Your Lexus Dealer?
Converters have an average lifespan of ten years or 100,000 miles, so it’s possible that you may never need a replacement. However, it is a wearing part, so scheduling a check every 50,000 miles or so will ensure that it receives monitoring and maintenance to keep it in good condition.
What Could Go Wrong?
Known as the “cat”, the converter contains tiny pores that are coated in precious metals such as palladium and gold. This honeycomb structure can be damaged by a sharp blow, causing pieces to break off.
Alternatively, if oil, antifreeze, or unburned fuel have infiltrated the exhaust system, then the converter may become clogged. This could be caused by:
- Bad valve seals
- Piston ring failure
- Poor spark plugs
- Unbalanced fuel-air mixture
If your car has suffered any of these problems recently, then the cat could be suffering from the knock-on effects, so it’s wise to arrange an inspection.
What Are the Warning Signs?
You know your Lexus better than anyone, so you’ll probably be the first person to notice if the converter isn’t working. The following might all signal that the cat is struggling:
Rattling Noises
If the converter is damaged, pieces of the honeycomb structure can break off and enter the exhaust pipe, causing a rattling noise that’s loudest at ignition.
Bad Smells
When the cat isn’t working, hydrogen sulfide will infiltrate the system instead of being catalyzed into odorless compounds. This can cause a sulfuric smell. You might also notice a burning odor or thick black smoke from the exhaust pipe.
Soggy Acceleration
By restricting the flow of exhaust gases, a malfunctioning cat will have an impact on the power from the engine. If you notice that your car is sluggish when it comes to accelerating or driving at speed, then the converter could be the culprit. It will also burn fuel less efficiently, which in turn will make an impact on costs at the gas pump.
As well as making your driving experience less enjoyable, a malfunctioning cat will cause harmful chemicals to build up in your engine and potentially damage other components of your car, so it really is essential to make sure that it’s in good health. If you’re in any doubt, contact us at DARCARS Lexus of Greenwich. We will be happy to answer any of your questions and get you in quickly for repairs!
Connect with us
