As a car owner, there’s a few yearly automotive tasks you should always keep an eye out for. But unfortunately, even with great car maintenance, major problems will still arise over time as we drive our vehicles. One such car maintenance task is the replacement of your catalytic converter.
You may remember that the catalytic converter is the part of the exhaust system that’s responsible for converting harmful emissions into less-harmless gases that can be released. Needless to say, a vehicle’s catalytic converter is essential to proper functionality within the exhaust system. Without it, your car will be contributing to poor air quality and likely breaking a state law.
Catalytic Converter Lifetime
So, it’s definitely clear that your catalytic converter is important. But, how long does a catalytic converter last? The catalytic converter is supposed to last the entire vehicle’s lifetime, but this isn’t always the case. It’s more safe to assume that the catalytic converter will last for up to 10 years or a little more. Of course, cars are getting more modern and innovative, making them more durable and sustainable with each year.
What Breaks Down a Catalytic Converter?
If catalytic converters are supposed to last a vehicle’s lifetime but they don’t make it, what is causing them to break down sooner? Similar to most vehicle elements, excessive use can drastically wear them down. For the catalytic converter specifically, it might get clogged, contaminated from coolant, or physically damaged (particularly from crashes). A car can’t last forever, and one source of that is catalytic converter wear down.
Another sad reality is that catalytic converters can get stolen, and this sort of theft is on the rise. You should install an anti-theft device, utilize a unique security registration code, and check car security to try to keep your catalytic converter safe. Your car can very well be one of your biggest three assets, so take the proper measures to protect its longevity.
Signs of a Bad Catalytic Converter
Hopefully you aren’t expecting a catalytic converter repair or replacement in the near future. However, you can never be too safe to be aware of the signs that may indicate your converter’s lifetime is nearing its end. These are common signs of a bad catalytic converter:
- Engine misfire
- Poor odor from the exhaust
- Check engine light is on
- Trouble starting the vehicle
- Less fuel efficiency
If you continually notice any of the above problems, don’t hesitate to bring your vehicle in to get serviced. This is an issue you’ll want to pinpoint and act on sooner rather than later.
Additional Catalytic Converter Information
One of Performance Muffler’s specialties is with catalytic converters, so we’re proud to be your go-to experts for these needs and questions. We want you to be the most informed driver on the road. This is why we’re frequently discussing catalytic converters or other automotive questions on our blog, including:
- High Flow Catalytic Converter and Horsepower
- How Much Does a Catalytic Converter Cost
- What Is a Catalytic Converter
- Catalytic Converter Replacement & Repair Guide
- And more
Contact Performance Muffler for a Free Quote
Take care of your vehicle by being proactive with its repairs. Your car can last a long time if you treat it properly.
The Performance Muffler team is happy to continually earn your business by providing the best automotive service you can find. In addition to catalytic converters, we also specialize in exhaust repairs, cat-back exhaust systems, and more.
Contact our professional and hard-working team today for a free quote to transform your vehicle.
About Performance Muffler
Since 2007, Performance Muffler has been proudly serving the Phoenix area. Discover how you can get “show car” quality at an affordable price and with fast service.