Catalytic converter clogged: indications, possible consequences

The catalytic converter performs two functions simultaneously: purifying and protecting. It purifies toxic mixtures formed during fuel combustion and protects the environment by ensuring that emissions are much safer for nature. However, as the operation becomes intense, it clogs up or becomes completely unusable. If the catalytic converter cannot be saved, then it can be sold at a bargain price on AutoCatalyst Market India. And add an insignificant amount to the money received, and buy a new one.

Often, there is a chance to manage without replacing the catalytic converter, so it is worth learning how to detect the indications of clogging, eliminate the problem in a timely manner, and avoid unintended consequences.

How to understand if the converter is clogged

The following signs indicate possible problems in the catalytic converter operation:
1- Unstable engine operation. It can suddenly stall or start not on the first attempt. This is especially noticeable when driving downhill or being idle in traffic jams;
2- Slow speed building up during acceleration.
3- Fuel consumption increases (by an average of 1.5‒2 liters under the same driving conditions).
4- A pungent hydrogen-sulfide odor may be sensed.
5- There is a distinctive sound inside the part body under the vehicle bottom (depending on where the converter is installed). The sound is similar to the impact of small rubble against the walls.

In the latter case, it is time to raise flags since most often this is a sign that the coil is destroyed mechanically, which means it simply crumbled into small particles.

Filling the vehicle with the fuel of poor quality with various impurities such as lead accelerates the clogging of the catalytic converter and the coil deterioration. Misses in the ignition system will also lead to incomplete fuel combustion, resulting in the accumulation of a large amount of soot and carbon deposits on the coil.

The stability of the converter operation is directly affected by the health of the power system and the function of vehicle sensors.

Possible consequences of a clogged converter

If the catalytic converter is not cleaned in a timely manner, then there is a possibility that the vehicle owner will face a number of unintended consequences, including the following:
1- The car simply won’t start at the right moment.
2- The engine stalls quickly immediately after the attempt to start it.
3- Coil surface melting. Fully-functional engine operation will require a new catalytic converter to be purchased. Another option is to remove it and put a flame-arrester in its place. The old catalytic converter can be sold at profit to buyers at Autocatalystmarket.com.
4- Damage to the sleeve assembly. It is the consequence of the mechanical destruction of the catalytic converter. It may cause significant expenses for major repairs.
If the slightest signs of operational deviations in the vehicle engine, ignition, or power supply, it is important to perform diagnostics to fix the problem in a timely manner with minimal loss of money and time.