A catalytic converter operates do decrease harmful vehicle emissions. It transforms the dangerous gases into non-harmful gases. If out of whack, a vehicle may face potential damaged. Additionally, upon inhalation the harmful emissions are dangerous to a driver’s health. It is helpful in preserving the longevity of your vehicle and not risking a dangerous driving experience to understand why a compromised catalytic converter is dangerous and how to be proactive in identifying a potential issue.
Emission Dangers
A catalytic converter filters bad emissions into less harmful emissions. Just a driver should wear their seatbelt to solidify physical safety, a driver should also be in good physical health so their control of a vehicle is not compromised and they are hence not risking their personal safety or the safety of all those the driver encounters on the road. Driving with a broken catalytic converter can negatively affect safety. Three dangerous components of car exhaust include Nitrogen Oxides, Carbon Monoxide, and Hydrocarbons. Upon inhalation, the dangers posed include:
- Exposure to Nitrogen Oxide – irritates the eyes and skin. Influences the ease of oxygen flow, resulting in nausea and dizziness, along with the possibility of vomiting as a result.
- Carbon monoxide – can cause issue damage as it replaces the oxygen in your red blood cells
- Hydrocarbons – can result in heartbeats that are irregular
Signs Your Catalytic Converter is Broken
In addition to potentially negatively affecting your physical well-being, a catalytic converter that is broken will negatively affect your fuel efficiency. It is a crucial part of an engine’s productivity, and the engine needs to have all of its operative functions running smoothly to be efficient. It is productive, financially and otherwise, to be wary of the signals that catalytic converter may be needed. Some indicators include:
- Hearing Rattling
- Check Engine Light Comes On
- Unable to Successfully Pass and Emissions Test
- Engine Not Running as Easily or Smoothly
- Smelling Sulfur
Any abnormalities to your typical easy driving experience should require examination by a certified technician because being proactive about rectifying a small auto repair can prevent an issue from escalating and damaging a car further and requiring more extensive, costly repairs. Our technicians specialize in catalytic converter repair. As professionals, we stand by the advice that auto scheduled maintenance is key to preserving the longevity and well-being of your car, but if that is too difficult to maintain, remember that being a safe driver requires on to be in tune with the car and recognize that a noticeable audible or felt change should initiate a trip to your local certified team of mechanics at K-O Auto Inc.