Platinum is just one process metal out of which catalytic converters are made. There are two other precious metals in the exhaust system part. This is why people steal catalytic converters when they have the chance. Thankfully, you will know immediately that your catalytic converter has been stolen based on how your automobile behaves when you start it. Let’s talk more about this below.
Roaring/Rumbling Engine
For example, your engine will roar and rumble loudly when it fires up. It will be so loud, that you may think you don’t have a muffler. Your car may sound like a racecar that gets even louder when you press down on the accelerator. This is a sign that the catalytic converter has been taken. Although the converter is not a muffler, it muffles exhaust system noise.
Illuminated CEL Warning
You will also notice that the check engine light turned on and did not turn off like it normally does when you start your automobile. The missing converter will cause the exhaust system to malfunction. Consequently, the engine control unit will turn on the check engine light to let you know there is an issue. In this case, the issue is a stolen catalytic converter.
Acceleration Trouble
You are also going to have trouble accelerating your vehicle if there is no converter underneath the automobile. In fact, your acceleration will cause your automobile to jerk several times as it is moving forward. This motion is caused by the force at which the exhaust manifold releases the exhaust. The converter is no longer there to take in the force.
Slow-Speed Problems
In addition to the acceleration problems, your vehicle will have difficulties operating at slower speeds. The engine cannot produce the torque that it needs to run smoothly when you are driving slowly if the catalytic converter is gone. In light of these problems, we recommend that you avoid driving your automobile until the catalytic converter is replaced.
Noticeable Exhaust Odors
Another reason why we make this recommendation is that the exhaust is released into the environment before it is treated. It is very easy for the exhaust to float upward and into your passenger cabin. When this happens, you will start to feel sick inside your automobile. You will start to feel drowsy, get a headache, and may even feel agitated.
As you know, vehicle exhaust is poisonous, so pull over right away if you can smell the exhaust. It’s better to have your automobile towed to our shop.