If your engine is roaring loudly after you have started your car, JTR Repair hates to say this, but it is possible that your catalytic converter has been stolen. When this exhaust system part is removed, the engine roars loudly while it is running because the exhaust is being forcefully pushed out of it and into the open air. The engine will get even louder when you press down on the accelerator. This is just one sign that the converter is missing from underneath your vehicle. Here are other signs.
Check Engine Warning
You are going to end up with an illuminated check engine warning because the exhaust system is malfunctioning without the catalytic converter. Consequently, the sensors that are found in the exhaust system will report errors to the engine control module, which is your automobile’s main computer chip. The module cannot repair a missing catalytic converter, so it will turn on the check engine light.
Jerking Acceleration
As we mentioned above, your automobile will also roar loudly when you accelerate. Aside from this annoying sound, the vehicle is going to jerk every time you try to pick up speed. The exhaust exits the combustion chamber via the exhaust manifold. When the manifold pushes the exhaust into the catalytic converter, the converter absorbs the force. It is no longer there to absorb the force and your automobile will jerk.
Problems at Slow Speeds
You are also going to have difficulties driving at slow speeds because the engine will struggle to produce the torque required to maintain the speed smoothly. Oddly, even though the catalytic converter is missing, the engine will smooth out as you pick up speed. The only time the engine seems to struggle is when you are driving slowly. This problem is caused by the missing catalytic converter.
Noticeable Exhaust Odors
Finally, you will notice exhaust odors inside your automobile because the exhaust manifold is releasing the exhaust into the open air. The exhaust will waft upward and make its way into the passenger cabin. Consequently, this makes driving your automobile dangerous because you are inhaling carbon monoxide. This can make you feel sick, and, in severe cases, can even be deadly. As such, we recommend that you avoid driving your automobile if the catalytic converter has been stolen.
JTR Repair in Crawfordsville, IN, is here to help, so call us today after you have talked with the authorities in your insurance company. We would be happy to replace the stolen catalytic converter and check your exhaust system for additional damage.
