A catalytic converter is an essential component of a car’s exhaust system that helps reduce harmful emissions. It converts toxic pollutants from the exhaust into less harmful gases. An Audi catalytic converter failure can have a significant impact on the car’s performance and efficiency. You’ll want the right Audi specialist to replace properly when you suspect a problem. Let’s look at why this problem can develop in your Audi.

Natural Age and Wear

A catalytic converter can become worn out and lose effectiveness over time. The internal components of the converter may break down or become clogged, reducing the converter’s ability to convert pollutants into less harmful gases. As a result, the car may experience decreased fuel efficiency and performance.

Contamination

The catalytic converter can become contaminated with oil, coolant, or other substances that leak into the exhaust system. These contaminants can damage the converter’s internal components, causing them to become clogged or break apart. This can reduce the converter’s ability to filter pollutants, leading to a decrease in the car’s efficiency and performance.

Overheating

A catalytic converter can fail due to overheating. This can occur if the engine is running too hot, causing the converter to become damaged or melt. Additionally, if the exhaust system becomes clogged, it can cause the converter to overheat, leading to damage or failure.

Fuel Quality

Poor fuel quality can also lead to a catalytic converter failure. Contaminants in the fuel can damage the converter’s substrate, which is responsible for filtering pollutants. If the substrate becomes clogged or damaged, it can reduce the converter’s ability to filter pollutants, decreasing the car’s efficiency and performance.

Physical Damage

The catalytic converter can also be damaged by physical impact. If the car hits a large object, such as a speed bump or pothole, it can cause the converter’s housing or substrate to become damaged or broken. This can reduce the converter’s ability to filter pollutants, leading to decreased efficiency and performance.

Watch for These Indications of an Audi Catalytic Converter Failure

• Reduced engine performance: A failing catalytic converter can cause a reduction in engine performance, such as sluggish acceleration or a decrease in power output. This is because a clogged or damaged converter restricts the flow of exhaust gases, which can cause back pressure to build up in the engine. This, in turn, can reduce the efficiency of the engine and make it more difficult to accelerate or reach higher speeds.
• Check Engine Light: Another way to know that your catalytic converter is malfunctioning is when it triggers the Check Engine Light (CEL) on the dashboard. The CEL is designed to alert the driver that there is a problem with the vehicle’s emissions system, including the catalytic converter. When the CEL comes on, it’s important to have the vehicle checked by a professional mechanic. The engine or other components of the vehicle can be further damaged if you continue to drive with a faulty converter.
• Poor fuel economy: A failing catalytic converter can also cause poor fuel economy. This is because the converter can restrict the flow of exhaust gases, which can cause the engine to work harder to push the gases out. This increased effort can result in more fuel being burned, which can lead to decreased fuel efficiency and higher fuel costs.
• A rotten egg smell: A bad catalytic converter can produce a sulfur-like odor that smells like rotten eggs. This smell is caused by the breakdown of sulfur compounds in the converter. If the smell is noticeable inside the vehicle, it’s important to have the converter inspected, as continued operation with a faulty converter can lead to more serious problems, such as engine damage.
• Loud exhaust noise: A clogged or damaged catalytic converter can cause a loud exhaust noise, similar to a muffler problem. This noise is caused by the buildup of exhaust gases in the system, which can cause the engine to work harder to push the gases out. If left unchecked, a damaged catalytic converter can cause more serious engine problems, such as a loss of power or even engine failure.

Visit Our Experts at Tanner Motors for the Best Audi Repairs

At Tanner Motors, we are well-equipped for any kind of problem you have with your Audi. We have skilled Audi technicians who will take care of all repairs and maintenance in a timely and affordable manner. If you are in or around Phoenix, AZ, stop by our shop or call us for an appointment!