What causes a Nissan Xterra catalytic converter to break?
The engine in our Nissans are capable of pulling in the ceramic substrate from the pre-catalytic converter if it should break down. This is due to the valve over-lap where the exhaust valve is open for a period when the piston is in its intake stroke.
What to do if your catalytic converter goes bad?
Throwing cataclean at it is probably money down the drain. 1st step is to ensure everything in the engine is in good tune as other issues often cause catalytic converters to go bad or possibly cause it to throw a code (this can include a leak between the O2 sensors). After that replace it.
Where are the O2 sensors and catalytic converters?
Your engine has 4 O2 sensors & 4 catalytic converters. 2 O2 sensors are in your manifold/headers between the engine and (upstream of) the 1st set of catalytic converters (primary cats). These O2 sensors are important as they give data to the engine computer that helps it adjust timing & fueling.
How much does it cost to replace catalytic converter in Nissan Xterra?
The average cost for a Nissan Xterra catalytic converter replacement is between $1,258 and $1,304. Labor costs are estimated between $176 and $222 while parts are priced at $1,082. This range does not include taxes and fees, and does not factor in your specific model year or unique location.
Is there a warranty on a catalytic converter?
The catalytic converter is covered by the vehicle’s emissions warranty, which extends beyond the manufacturer’s factory warranty. Along with other emission control devices, federal law requires manufacturers to replace a defective converter for up to 15 years or 150,000 miles.
Are there any defects in the Nissan Xterra?
The same defect exists in the Pathfinder & Frontier as well. And according to the New York Times & a class action lawsuit, the defect actually extends through 2010 model year. More info here.
What happens if you have a catalytic converter problem?
A failing catalytic converter can cause a vehicle to fail emissions tests and turn on the check engine light. The exhaust might have an unusual smell. A restricted catalytic converter can result in a loss of engine power. Can I drive with a catalytic converter problem?
What happens if you replace the catalytic converter?
If you spend $900 or more to replace the catalytic converter, you may discover the check engine light coming on again later. Some mechanics will tell you to try replacing the oxygen sensors first, to see if that solves the problem. There are two of them, one before and one after the catalytic converter.
Can a lazy oxygen sensor cause a catalytic converter problem?
You may need to fix other engine problems in order to solve your catalytic converter problem. A lazy oxygen sensor might falsely indicate a catalytic converter problem, yet not set a DTC for itself. A technician can determine if the sensor is responding as it should.
What kind of warning light does a catalytic converter need?
Vehicle warning lights. An illuminated check engine light or malfunction indicator lamp (CEL or MIL) with a catalytic converter diagnostic trouble code (DTC) is the most common catalytic converter problem indicator.
The engine in our Nissans are capable of pulling in the ceramic substrate from the pre-catalytic converter if it should break down. This is due to the valve over-lap where the exhaust valve is open for a period when the piston is in its intake stroke.
Throwing cataclean at it is probably money down the drain. 1st step is to ensure everything in the engine is in good tune as other issues often cause catalytic converters to go bad or possibly cause it to throw a code (this can include a leak between the O2 sensors). After that replace it.
Can a bypass pipe be installed in a catalytic converter?
There are few instances in which it is allowable to remove the catalytic converter and install a bypass pipe. If a vehicle has high mileage, the converter can become clogged, causing the vehicle’s performance to suffer; a bypass pipe then is installed in place of the converter as a troubleshooting tool to see…
You may need to fix other engine problems in order to solve your catalytic converter problem. A lazy oxygen sensor might falsely indicate a catalytic converter problem, yet not set a DTC for itself. A technician can determine if the sensor is responding as it should.
How do you replace a catalytic converter in a car?
Crawl under the vehicle and spray penetrating fluid onto the holding bolts on each end of the catalytic converter (the converter is located on the exhaust system near the front of the vehicle) and allow it to work in for a few minutes. Unplug the oxygen sensor wiring harness from the converter (if equipped).
Why is my catalytic converter not working properly?
A technician can determine if the sensor is responding as it should. Other engine problems, such as fuel trim running too rich or too lean, oil or coolant burning, or engine misfire problems could all lead to catalytic converter contamination or premature failure.
The same defect exists in the Pathfinder & Frontier as well. And according to the New York Times & a class action lawsuit, the defect actually extends through 2010 model year. More info here.
What causes a catalytic converter to stop working?
When it fails, it’s commonly caused by too much raw fuel entering the converter, often as a result of a misfiring engine. Too much unburned fuel can coat the catalyst, causing the converter to stop working. The converter can also overheat and break apart inside, becoming restricted or plugged.
What should the temperature of a catalytic converter be?
Each contains specific catalyst elements that work at a temperature of at least 400 degrees F to promote specific chemical reactions. This converts harmful CO, HC, and NOx exhaust gases into less harmful CO2, H2O, and N gases that are released from the vehicle’s exhaust pipe. What are the symptoms related to a bad catalytic converter?