If you drive a Volkswagen that is 10 years old or older, there will come a point sooner rather than later when the catalytic converter needs to be replaced. This exhaust system part treats the exhaust to ensure no dangerous toxins are released out of the tailpipe. European Fix can inspect your catalytic converter to see if it is functioning properly. If it isn’t, we can replace it. Here are signs that your Volkswagen’s catalytic converter is going bad and needs to be replaced.
Black Exhaust Smoke
Untreated exhaust smoke tends to be dark in color. This is a sign that the catalytic converter is not doing its job of treating the exhaust before it is released out of the tailpipe. Black exhaust smoke can also be a sign of a rich fuel mixture caused by a faulty mass airflow or oxygen sensor. You may also have a fuel leak in your VW’s engine and this is why there is black exhaust smoke flowing out of the tailpipe.
Reduced Acceleration
In the case of the catalytic converter, however, it will also reduce your acceleration. Unfortunately, this is because the converter is not pushing the exhaust through the system and out of the tailpipe. As the exhaust builds up in the catalytic converter, it backs up into the combustion chamber and prevents new engine combustion. This can cause your vehicle’s acceleration to lag.
Sluggish Performance
It can also cause sluggish engine performance. The combustion chamber needs to continually fire fresh air and fuel to maintain efficient engine performance. If the catalytic converter is clogged and causing a problem with the release of the exhaust, your engine performance will suffer and you will also notice a significant difference in your VW’s fuel economy.
Rotten Egg Smells
A faulty catalytic converter will also release unpleasant odors into your VW’s exhaust. These odors are that of rotten eggs this is actually burning sulfur, and the only other time you would smell rotten eggs coming from your automobile is if your battery is leaking.
Too Much Heat
Finally, a malfunctioning catalytic converter will create too much heat underneath your Volkswagen. Unfortunately, this heat will also cause your engine to overheat. If your VW’s engine is overheating constantly and there isn’t a problem with the cooling system, it could be a dying catalytic converter.
Call European Fix in Clinton Township, MI, today if you suspect your catalytic converter is going bad. We can replace it if necessary.