8 Signs Your GMC Needs a New Catalytic Converter

The catalytic converter is perhaps an underrated car part, considering the chemical magic it performs all day long. The ceramic honeycomb catalyst inside a cat is coated in precious metals that meticulously clean all the toxic fumes as they float through, turning them into mostly harmless vapor. But this amazing process can become interrupted by fluid leaks, oil leaks, external impacts, or age. If you detect the eight signs of trouble below, visit your local GMC dealer for repairs right away.

8 Signs Your GMC Needs a New Catalytic Converter

Your Exhaust Is Thicker

When the cat transforms toxic engine fumes into cleaner gases, it also thins your exhaust. So if your cat becomes damaged or somehow ceases to function, emissions will pour unfiltered out of your tailpipe. You’ll soon notice a thickening in your exhaust.
If your exhaust ever turns into black smoke, pull over at once. Smoke often means there’s a fire inside your cat, which can sometimes be caused by leaking fuel.

Read more: 8 Signs Your GMC Needs a New Catalytic Converter

You Can Smell Your Exhaust

While driving a modern GMC, you’re very unlikely to smell anything more than a faint whiff of your car’s exhaust. But if your cat stops working, you’ll soon smell the difference, especially when you step out of your car. The worst of these toxic emissions stinks of rotten eggs and is dangerous to breathe.

Your Cat Is Rattling

When damaged or falling apart from age, the honeycomb meshwork inside your cat will often break into pieces. You can hear these pieces rattling around inside when the engine’s running. And if the cat itself becomes knocked loose by a pothole or attempted theft, you’re likely to hear it rattling in its loosened brackets.

Extreme Heat Under Your Car

A failing cat generates even more heat than usual. This heat is created by the backup of emissions and enormous pressure as they try to force their way out of the exhaust pipes.

You Lose Accelerative Power

A faulty cat restricts the flow of air, which in turn prevents as much oxygen from entering the engine. This reduces the engine’s power and slows its acceleration.

Your Fuel Economy Drops

When a bad cat reduces the engine’s efficiency, you won’t be driving as many miles for each gallon of gas your car consumes. You’ll quickly find your monthly gas expenses rising, and not just from inflation.

Your Check Engine Light Turns On

Any of the engine problems mentioned will cause your Check Engine light to come on. You’ll see it shining away on your dashboard. It’s never wise to ignore the Check Engine light for long.

Your GMC Dealer Recommends a New Cat

During your regular servicing visits, the technicians at your local dealership will run tests on your engine and cat. They’ll soon uncover any underlying problems and let you know if you need repairs or replacements.
Have qualified professionals inspect and repair your cat today at Mansfield GMC. We strive to provide the drivers of Mansfield, Columbus, Ashland, Medina, and the surrounding region with a top-tier buying and servicing experience.

Tags: Transmission Service
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