Unfortunately, stealing catalytic converters is a thing, especially if you drive a Toyota Prius. The converters are stolen for the metals out of which they are manufactured. Central Auto Care can replace your catalytic converter if it has been stolen and repair the damage the theft caused underneath your vehicle. Here are signs that your automobile is running without a catalytic converter.
Failed Emissions Test
One of the first things that will happen is your vehicle will fail an emissions test because it no longer has a catalytic converter treating the exhaust. This isn’t a problem here in Okotoks, Alberta, but it can be a problem if you move to the states. Many of the states in the United States require regular emissions testing to make sure their vehicles are not releasing excess harmful emissions.
Headaches/Feeling Sick
Another sign that your catalytic converter has been stolen is if driving your automobile makes you feel sick when the windows are down. You may end up with a headache or start to feel sluggish. This is a sign that you are inhaling carbon monoxide because the catalytic converter is not there to treat it.
Illuminated Check Engine Light
Because the catalytic converter is missing, your check engine light will also illuminate on the dashboard. Unfortunately, the light will remain lit until you replace the stolen catalytic converter. The light is on because the computer detects a problem with the vehicle. In this case, a missing catalytic converter.
Loud Engine Roaring
When you first fire up your engine after the catalytic converter has been stolen, you will notice that the engine roars loudly. The engine will continue to be excessively loud until you replace the catalytic converter. It’s better to toe your vehicle to our shop than drive it with the noise.
Low-End Torque Reduction
A stolen catalytic converter will also reduce your vehicle’s low-end torque. This means the automobile will struggle to produce power when you are driving at slower speeds. There are two types of torque that your engine produces: high-end and low-end. The low-end applies to slower driving.
Rough Acceleration
Finally, because the engine no longer has a catalytic converter to push the exhaust through, your vehicle’s acceleration will be jumpy and rough. This is because the engine is forcing the exhaust through the exhaust system without the benefit of the catalytic converter.
Central Auto Care in Okotoks, AB, is here to help, so call us today if you believe your catalytic converter has been stolen.