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Your catalytic converter turns dangerous hydrocarbons, hydrogen oxides, and carbon monoxide into harmless carbon dioxide, water vapor, and hydrogen. For this reason, most states have laws requiring that your cat is always in good working order. If you notice any of the following indications of trouble, you might need to visit your local Ford dealer to repair or replace your cat.

Black Exhaust Smoke

Engine misfiring problems with the ignition coils or spark plugs can sometimes cause unburned fuel to become expelled through the exhaust system. When this unburned fuel passes through the cat, it can clog the meshwork. Sometimes the enormous heat inside a cat ignites this excess fuel, causing black smoke to pour from the tailpipe.

The heat from this will rapidly melt the ceramic meshwork, destroying the cat. This is one reason why it’s so important to pull over when your engine’s misfiring. Such problems can quickly cause damage throughout your vehicle.

Dropping Gas Mileage

Just as an engine problem can harm the cat, a cat problem can also harm the engine. If the meshwork inside your cat becomes broken by an external impact, it will no longer allow the air and emissions to flow through as easily.

This creates a backup of airflow that prevents the engine from drawing as much fresh oxygen into the combustion chambers. As a result, the fuel-air mixture becomes unbalanced, and your engine will lose power. Your fuel efficiency will plummet, as well.

Rattling Noises

When a cat becomes old enough or damaged by external impacts or fuel leakages, the meshwork inside begins to break apart. You’ll often hear these meshwork fragments rattling around when you’re on the road.

If the rattling is louder, the cat’s housing might itself have become loosened, perhaps by an impact or attempted theft. You’ll hear it moving around in its loosened brackets whenever you corner.

Rotten Egg Stench

When a cat stops functioning for any reason, hydrogen sulfide gets through. This noxious gas can leak into the cabin, so you’ll start to smell a sulfury rotten egg smell. Have your cat inspected as soon as you detect this smell. It’s dangerous for humans to breathe.

How a Ford Dealer Inspects Your Cat

A technician at your local dealership will first inspect the outside of the cat for signs of damage. They’ll also use heat-detection tools, such as a pyrometer or infrared thermometer, on the exhaust to verify if the insides of the cat are clogged.

They might also remove a section of exhaust piping upwind of the cat and run the engine to see if any problems disappear without the cat in play. If a cat is only mildly clogged or damaged, it might be possible to clean it. But when things have started to break apart, the whole cat will usually need to be replaced.

Visit United Ford to have experienced technicians examine, repair, or replace your cat. We’re a locally trusted dealership offering great cars and great customer service.