It might seem hard to comprehend that someone would steal a catalytic converter. After all, getting the converter out of the exhaust system takes quite a bit of effort. This being said, the catalytic converter is made of precious metals. These metals include platinum, which, as you know, is quite expensive. This is why people go to the effort of stealing converters from underneath automobiles. Here are signs that you no longer have a converter in your vehicle’s exhaust system.
Dashboard CEL Warning
The main computer chip in your vehicle, which is called the engine control unit or module, will turn on a dashboard warning light if the converter has been taken. In this case, the converter does not have a light so the unit will turn on the check engine light. This light will remain on until your exhaust system is repaired. This includes replacing the converter.
Noticeably Loud Engine
You may be shocked to hear how loud your engine is once you start your car, SUV, or truck. This is your clue that the converter has been taken. The engine is going to be so loud you may think that someone stole the muffler. If you press down on the accelerator, the engine will roar even louder. This is the sound of the exhaust leaving the exhaust manifold.
Problems Accelerating
Unfortunately, you will also have difficulties accelerating your automobile if you attempt to drive it. The acceleration will be jerky. In fact, your vehicle will lurch forward several times. You may fear that the engine is going to stall. It will be difficult to drive your automobile because of this acceleration problem. It will be very slow to pick up speed.
Problems Driving Slowly
Speaking of slow, you will also have difficulties driving your vehicle slowly. Unfortunately, the missing catalytic converter affects how well the engine produces low-end torque. This means the engine will not have enough torque or power to operate smoothly when you are driving slowly.
Exhaust in the Passenger Cabin
It can be frustrating to drive an automobile when the catalytic converter has been stolen. What you may not know is that it can also be dangerous. The manifold releases the exhaust into the open air. Consequently, this means you may end up with exhaust in the passenger cabin. This can make you severely ill.
If you believe that someone has stolen your catalytic converter, call the authorities and your insurance company first. Next, call us to schedule a service appointment so we can repair your exhaust system damage.