Clogged catalyst in the car - is it possible to drive with it and how to fix it
Content
In currently produced vehicles, a catalytic converter is a mandatory part of the exhaust system. Its task is to neutralize harmful chemical compounds resulting from the combustion of a mixture of fuel and air. Unfortunately, it often happens that a clogged catalyst makes itself felt. And the symptoms of this failure do not have to be obvious at all.
A clogged catalytic converter - symptoms of a breakdown in the car
In some cases, it is difficult to recognize that it is a clogged catalytic converter. The symptoms resemble problems with the ignition system. The driver may then notice that the car:
- has difficulty maintaining an even idle speed;
- he reluctantly gets into business;
- it wont start.
For these reasons alone, a clogged catalytic converter is usually diagnosed after checking the spark plugs, coil, throttle body or high-voltage wires. Before it comes to its inspection, the car owner can spend a lot of money on the services of a mechanic. And this is not the end of potential damage symptoms.
Other symptoms of a clogged catalytic converter in the car
What else can indicate that the catalytic converter is clogged in the car? This is primarily an increase in the demand for fuel. Sometimes, as a result of internal damage to the cartridge, such an increased appetite for gasoline or diesel may appear suddenly. More often, however, the driver notices a gradual increase in fuel consumption. In addition, the symptoms of a clogged catalyst are also:
- engine power drop;
- disturbing noises coming from under the chassis.
How to check if the catalytic converter is clogged?
In principle, it is difficult to make a clear diagnosis without visiting the workshop. Why? A clogged catalytic converter can be difficult to locate. This is especially true in cases where the car has a heavily built-up floor and you do not have access to the sewer and tools. All you have to do is look at the muffler and check that it is not caked with soot. If so, the catalytic converter probably needs to be replaced.
How else to check if the catalytic converter is clogged? You can "dive" under the car and organoleptic assess the tightness of the can.
Clogged catalytic converter and check engine light
Sometimes a clogged catalytic converter makes itself felt by lighting up the engine status light. However, this is not always the case and then you have to look for the fault "on foot". In the event that such a lamp lights up, all you need to do is connect the computer to the car through the diagnostic socket and determine what is going on.
A clogged catalytic converter or its damage will cause the error code P0240 to appear. After obtaining such confirmation, you can proceed to remove the fault.
Clogged catalyst - what to do next?
You have several options to choose from. Here they are, presented in order from most reasonable to least recommended:
- Replacement of the item with a new one with a guarantee.
- Cleaning the old and replacing the cartridge.
- Buying a replacement.
- Buying a used catalyst.
- Removal of the catalyst and insertion of the through pipe.
Why are the first two methods especially recommended for a clogged catalyst? Because they are the most effective. Replacements may not have a guaranteed life or mileage, and used items are usually of unknown condition. Throwing away the catalytic converter is illegal, because every car must have it if it is in the factory version.
Clogged catalytic converter - why replace it with a new one?
There are companies on the market that offer cleaning of such an element. This can be tempting mainly due to the lower price than buying a new part. However, it should be remembered that the disassembly and reassembly of the catalytic converter is within the same price range as the insertion of a new one. It is always better to replace a clogged catalytic converter with a completely unused one than to invest in its reanimation. Such a new element will simply have a longer life and a manufacturer's warranty, e.g. for the number of kilometers.
In which cars does the catalytic converter become clogged?
The type of engine affects how often a clogged catalytic converter occurs. Gasoline as a fuel is less likely to lead to such a breakdown. If it does occur, it is when the oil rings are unable to scrape the oil from the walls of the cylinder walls. Then it is burned in the cylinders, and the residues clog the catalyst.
A slightly different clogged catalytic converter manifests itself in diesel. There, more smoke and difficulties with obtaining factory engine power are often noticeable. The main reason for the problems is frequent driving in urban conditions for short distances.
Clogged catalytic converter - can you drive with it?
A worn part won't suddenly start working properly just because you keep using it. Therefore, driving with a clogged catalytic converter and downplaying the fault will not provide anything good. This item must be replaced as soon as possible. However, if you decide to drive anyway, you must take into account the following:
- increased smoking;
- continuous appearance of the engine trouble light;
- unit ignition problems;
- impaired vehicle performance.
A clogged catalytic converter is a serious matter that should not be underestimated. Therefore, if you have problems with the catalyst, make diagnostics. Then replace the item if necessary.
