A damaged or clogged catalytic converter can eventually cause a car's engine to fail, making it impossible to legally drive the vehicle if the problem isn't addressed promptly. Typically you will have to pay around $900 to $2,500 to replace a three-way catalytic converter. Here are some things you can try to fix your catalytic converter without replacing it. Because in many cases, it just gets clogged or needs to be cleaned, not damaged. So how to fix a catalytic converter without replacing it?
Quick fix for catalytic converter
Do a quick fix for the catalytic converter without a lengthy repair or replacement.
1. Use fuel additives
Use premium or ultra-premium gasoline, as those higher-cost gasoline contain additives that can help improve engine performance. Using fuel additives regularly will help clean your car's catalytic converter if you've done this.
2. Clean the catalytic converter
You can try a pressure washer to force clean the debris that has built up inside the catalytic converter. Remember always to start rinsing from both ends. Soak the parts in hot water for deep cleaning, then pour in a standard laundry detergent or degreaser. Finally, please wait for it to dry completely before reinstalling.
3. Increase your driving speed
Between 800 degrees Fahrenheit and 1,832 degrees are the most efficient operating temperature for the catalytic converter. Easy driving at slower speeds can cause your catalytic converter to fail prematurely without reaching optimal operating temperature. So driving the vehicle at a higher speed fully heats your converter. This burns off deposits trapped in the intake air, cylinder head, exhaust, oxygen sensors, and catalytic converters.
4. Solve the exhaust problem
Exhaust leakage is also one reason that affects the function of the catalytic converter. It can distort sensor readings without setting other DTCs. Worn exhaust gaskets and corroded hoses are the two leading causes. So double-check your car for exhaust leaks. Fixing an exhaust problem is much less expensive than replacing a catalytic converter.
When does the catalytic converter need to be repaired?
One more thing you need to do about how to fix catalytic converter without replacing it is to judge its health. If your car is in any of the following conditions, you may want to check your catalytic converter for repairs. These signs include:
1. Deterioration of vehicle performance
If your catalytic converter is badly clogged, it can't release gas quickly enough that the engine won't run in the usual way. This reduces the efficiency with which the vehicle travels.
2. Poor acceleration or slow start
Difficulty starting or accelerating the car is most likely a problem with the catalytic converter — because the blockage blocks the exhaust gases leaving and secures your engine in the first place.
3. Reduced fuel consumption
Decreased gas mileage is also one symptom of a clogged catalytic converter. That's because the exhaust gases are pushed back into the engine, and the ratio of fuel to air changes. Ultimately affects the combustion reaction, thereby reducing the fuel consumption and performance of the car.
4. Check the engine light
A malfunctioning catalytic converter triggers the check engine light on the dash. Often, this is the first sign of a problem with the catalytic converter. Use the OBD2 scanner to diagnose if a warning light appears on the instrument panel. It's easy to use, and you don't need to make many trials and errors.
