What is the first sign of a bad catalytic converter?
Usually, an illuminated check engine light is the first and only sign of a bad catalytic converter. When the light pops on, your car’s engine control module (ECM) will also store a diagnostic trouble code (often a P0420 code) in its memory.
What does check engine light mean on catalytic converter?
The check engine light will come on if it’s below this threshold, determined by oxygen sensors that are located before and after the catalytic converter. The sensors will trigger an Onboard Diagnostics (OBD) trouble code that’s stored in your car’s computer. OBD Code P0420 means the catalyst system efficiency is below the threshold.
Is it safe to get a new catalytic converter?
If you do end up getting a new catalytic converter, make sure you get one that meets your state’s requirements, or else you may find the check engine light coming on again. The safest thing is to get an original manufacturer brand or one that is legal for all 50 states.
What causes a check engine light to come on?
4. Check Engine Light Comes On. A bad or failing catalytic converter can also cause an illuminated Check Engine Light. The oxygen sensor and air-fuel ratio sensor in modern vehicles monitor the efficiency of the catalytic converter by tracking the gas levels in the exhaust.
Does a catalytic converter damage the engine?
A bad catalytic converter will not cause major damage to your engine. The most common impacts are reduced performance and bad fuel efficiency. When it comes to physically damaging your engine, a bad catalytic convert can only cause wear and tear damages.
What does the catalytic converter warning light mean?
The catalytic converter warning light means the catalytic converter in your engine may not be working properly , possibly due to overheating. Is it safe to drive with the catalytic converter warning light on? Catalytic converters are one of the most important additions to the modern automobile.
What is a catalytic convertor?
A catalytic converter is an exhaust emission control device that reduces toxic gases and pollutants in exhaust gas from an internal combustion engine into less-toxic pollutants by catalyzing a redox reaction (an oxidation and a reduction reaction). Catalytic converters are usually used with internal combustion…