- Check engine light illuminated: The check engine light will be illuminated when there is an issue with the catalytic converter, as the converter is responsible for converting harmful exhaust emissions into less harmful substances.
- Reduced engine performance: A failing catalytic converter can cause a reduction in engine performance, as the converter is unable to properly convert the exhaust gases, resulting in a loss of power and acceleration.
- Increased fuel consumption: As the catalytic converter is not able to properly convert the exhaust gases, it can result in an increase in fuel consumption.
- Metallic odor: A strong, unpleasant metallic odor may be present due to the presence of excessive amounts of unburned fuel in the exhaust system.
- Rattling or scraping sounds: A failing catalytic converter can cause a rattling or scraping noise due to the breakdown of the internal structure of the converter.
- Exhaust fumes smell like rotten eggs: A failing catalytic converter can cause a strong, unpleasant odor of rotten eggs due to the presence of sulfur compounds in the exhaust.
- Overheating: A failing catalytic converter can cause overheating of the exhaust system, as the converter is not able to properly dissipate the heat generated by the exhaust gases.
- Prematurely worn oxygen sensor: A catalytic converter helps protect the downstream oxygen sensor from excessive heat. A bad catalytic converter can prematurely damage or destroy the oxygen sensor.
