Posts Tagged: catalytic converter failure
Catalytic Converter Cleaner: Miracle Fix or Temporary Band-Aid?
Why Catalytic Converter Cleaner Rarely Works Long-Term Quick Summary A catalytic converter cleaner may, in certain cases listed below, temporarily eliminate a P0420 or P0430 trouble code. 1) Your cat is borderline failing and has carbon buildup or deposits that are reducing the converter’s efficiency 2) The underlying problem is due to excessive oil consumption, coolant leaks, or running rich, which has fouled but not damaged the catalyst 3) You catch it early, before the substrate is physically degraded Catalytic Converter Cleaners Don’t Work When: 1) The catalyst substrate is … Read More
Most Common Causes of Catalytic Converter Failure
Top Reasons Catalytic Converters Go Bad Quick Summary The most common causes of catalytic converter failure are • Engine misfires — Misfires cause incomplete combustion that dumps unburned fuel into the exhaust, causing the catalytic converter to foul, overheat, and melt. • Rich fuel mixtures — Leaking fuel injectors or rich fuel mixtures cause extra fuel to enter the exhaust and damage the catalytic converter. • Oil or coolant contamination — Oil burning, internal oil, or coolant leaks can coat the precious metals inside the catalytic converter, rendering them inoperative. … Read More
Check Engine Light Is Flashing? Here’s What to Do
What To Do Immediately When Your Check Engine Light Is Flashing Quick Summary A flashing check engine light indicates a serious engine misfire; one that’s serious enough to cause significant damage to your catalytic converter, costing thousands to replace. When you see a flashing check engine light, you should back off the accelerator until the light stops flashing. If you can’t get to a shop without further flashing, you should call for a tow truck. That will be far less expensive than a new catalytic converter. Article Why I Take … Read More