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  • Koons Kia of Owings Mills

Nov 25, 2022

One of the essential parts of your car is the catalytic converter, which is vital in reducing harmful gasses and controlling your vehicle’s emissions. It’s essential to keep your converter in excellent condition and recognize signs indicating you’ll need repairs or a complete replacement from your Kia dealer.

Failed Emissions Test Result

When you fail an emissions test, your converter isn’t filtering your car’s exhaust, which leads to higher emissions of harmful chemicals and gasses. If you receive this result on your next test, it’s crucial to visit your Kia service center to have your converter assessed for repair or replacement. You can also prevent a failed emissions test by scheduling regular check-ups with your certified Kia technician to ensure your converter is working correctly.

Sulfur Odor

If you notice a sulfur odor coming from your car’s exhaust, your converter isn’t changing hydrogen sulfide into odorless sulfur dioxide. When this happens, you’ll experience a rotten egg smell: a sign that the emission conversation system isn’t working and your converter must be replaced.

Inefficient Engine Performance

When your car’s engine performance slows, and the acceleration is reduced or stalling, this signifies a failing converter. You’ll notice other symptoms accompanying poor engine performance, such as increasing fuel, sputtering, and ignition problems. If you experience one or more of these issues, it’s essential to visit a Kia service center to review your converter, engine, and related components to determine which repairs are needed.

Rattling Noises

Rattling sounds or noises from beneath the driver’s seat or in this part of your vehicle may signify a broken or damaged converter. You may notice these noises become louder when you start your car and as you drive. If the interior of your car’s converter is broken and pieces of the mesh, or filter inside, are moving around, this creates the sound.

When this problem occurs, it’s essential to have your car reviewed by a trained technician at your Kia service center, which may require replacing your old converter.

Regular Engine Misfires

If your engine misfires, this may indicate damage to your car’s engine or converter. When you experience this issue, it’s often a sign of increased fuel usage, which results in higher costs. You’ll want to schedule an appointment with your Kia service center to assess your vehicle and prevent further damage to your vehicle’s exhaust system.

It’s essential to become familiar with signs that your converter isn’t working and schedule regular maintenance with your Kia center to avoid preventable damage and save on costly replacements. Come see us at Koons Kia of Owings Mills and find out what we have to offer you from our showroom today.

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