Are you noticing a decrease in fuel performance and difficulty accelerating? It may be time to replace your catalytic converter. This piece of equipment does more than just protect the environment; it also keeps your fuel system working efficiently. This list will help you identify the signs that your converter is due for an upgrade before you visit your Kia dealer.
1. Noticing an Increase in Visits to the Pump
Having to visit the gas station more often is usually the first indicator your converter has aged beyond use. The part is intended to intake dangerous exhaust gases and pass them through a filter with a catalyzing agent to neutralize toxic molecules into less harmful elements. If the filtering layer has become blocked by deposits, fresh air will have no space to enter your engine.
Without room for oxygen to enter, your fuel will have nothing to mix with when you press on the gas, resulting in the gasoline being sprayed but never utilized. A new converter with a clean mesh rectifies the issue by allowing proper airflow.
2. Your Engine Light Has Turned On
There is a multitude of reasons your engine light may turn on, and that includes issues with your converter. Sensors for detecting oxygen levels will be placed at the exhaust in newer vehicles, and when the converter is blocked the ratio detected will be inaccurate. The sensor will send back the error, resulting in the light kicking on, so that you’ll know the fuel system is unable to correctly calculate the fuel-to-air ratio in its blocked state.
3. Unusual Sounds from Your Vehicle
There are two main issues that will occur relating to sound when your converter isn’t working properly. The first instance will be a rattling noise coming from beneath your vehicle that is most apparent when first turning on the engine. The clanging you hear is caused by damage to the internal mesh of the converter, which will bounce about its metal casing when broken loose.
The second form of noise you may notice is a substantial increase in the volume of your engine. In this case, the noise is so loud that some describe it as a “roar”, and the racket will not stop even when idling. If this is your issue, you may have unfortunately lost your converter altogether. Without the device, the exhaust will become really loud and may even be accompanied by an unpleasant sulfur smell.
If you have noticed any of the signs listed above, it is likely time to replace or upgrade your converter. Keeping this part clean and functioning well is not only legally mandated, but will also allow your fuel system to work correctly. Visit Mike Kelly Kia today for an upgrade and save on gas while getting the most out of your vehicle.
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