The metals found in catalytic converters are platinum, palladium, and rhodium. These metals are extremely precious, and this is why people steal catalytic converters from exhaust systems. We are going to list the signs that someone has stolen your catalytic converter below so you know what to look for in your automobile. The first thing you should do is cut the engine and call the authorities.
Loud Engine
The catalytic converter is not a muffler, but it muffles the sound exhaust being forced out of the exhaust manifold. When the converter is missing, this noise makes your engine sound as if it is extremely loud. If you press down on the accelerator, the engine will roar even louder. Unfortunately, there is no way to muffle the exhaust noise except to install a new catalytic converter.
Check Engine Light
In addition, you will have a check engine light warning on the dashboard that will not turn off until the catalytic converter that was stolen is replaced. The exhaust system cannot operate correctly without the catalytic converter. As such, the missing converter will cause the exhaust system to malfunction. The engine control unit cannot fix the problem so it will turn on the check engine light.
Performance Issues
You are also going to have performance issues if you attempt to drive your automobile without a catalytic converter. Specifically, the acceleration will jerk violently when you press down on the accelerator. In addition, your vehicle will struggle to produce power when you are driving at slow speeds. These reasons alone can be frustrating enough to prevent you from driving your vehicle.
Exhaust Odors
If they aren’t, however, please take this into account. The exhaust manifold is now pushing untreated exhaust into the open air. This untreated exhaust floats upward and enters your passenger cabin. Consequently, you will inhale the untreated exhaust while you drive your automobile. As you know, this can make you extremely ill. As such, we recommend that you call for a tow truck.
We would be happy to help you if your catalytic converter has been stolen. Make sure to report the theft to the authorities and your auto insurance company to see if the repairs will be covered. Then, give us a call so we can set up a convenient appointment for your automobile. We will replace the catalytic converter and repair any damage to your vehicle’s exhaust system.
