We would love to say that catalytic converter theft is unusual, but the converter that is underneath your automobile is made from precious metals. Unfortunately, this makes the converter a prime target for theft. Thankfully, you will know something is wrong the minute you start your vehicle. This gives you the opportunity to shut the engine down and call the police.
CEL Dashboard Warning
Normally, the check engine light turns off quickly after you start your automobile. If the converter is gone, the check engine light will remain illuminated. It is not going to turn off until you have a new converter installed in the exhaust system. The CEL warning should give you pause. Take a moment to listen to your engine carefully if the check engine light is on.
Extremely Loud Engine
Your engine is going to be much louder than it normally is. Unfortunately, if you press down on the accelerator, it will get even louder. This is a sign that the converter is gone because the exhaust push out of the exhaust manifold is no longer being muffled. Your engine will be as loud as if you had no muffler in the exhaust system.
Acceleration Problems
Driving the automobile without a converter can be extremely frustrating. First, you will have acceleration problems. These problems include jerking and lurching when you press down on the accelerator. Your vehicle will not be able to accelerate smoothly.
Underperforming Engine
In addition, your engine is going to underperform when you drive slowly. This, too, is caused by the missing converter. Your engine’s performance cannot be restored until you have a new converter installed. We can do this at our auto repair shop.
Strong Exhaust Odors
We strongly recommend that you have your vehicle towed to our shop rather than drive. The reason why is that the converter is not there to take in the exhaust. Consequently, it is released into the environment where it can float into your cabin and make you sick. In severe cases, inhaling your vehicle’s exhaust can be deadly.
Before you bring your vehicle to our shop, call the police to report the catalytic converter theft. Next, call your auto insurance company to see if the theft is covered by your policy. If it is, the insurance company may pay for the converter replacement less your deductible. We can replace the converter in less than four hours if there is not too much damage to your exhaust system.