Your car, SUV, or truck will fail a smog check if there isn’t a catalytic converter installed in the exhaust system. The reason why is that the vehicle exhaust will be untreated. Consequently, this means your vehicle will release harmful emissions into the environment. Aside from a failed smog check, here are other signs you no longer have a catalytic converter in the exhaust system.
Loud/Roaring Engine
You will know that there is a problem before you even take your vehicle to get smog. When you first turn the ignition key or press the start button, there will be a significant difference in how loud your engine operates. When the catalytic converter has been taken, the engine becomes much louder and roars. It will make even more noise when you press down on the accelerator.
Illuminated CEL
The other reason why your vehicle will not pass the smog test is that the check engine light will be illuminated on the dashboard. The missing catalytic converter creates problems for the exhaust system. Consequently, exhaust system sensors will notify the engine control module that the exhaust system is malfunctioning. As such, the module will turn on the check engine light.
Jerky Acceleration
Another problem that is caused by a stolen catalytic converter is jerky acceleration. When you press down on the accelerator, your vehicle will lurch forward several times. In fact, it will continue to operate poorly until you pick up speed. We will talk more about this next. The reason why the acceleration is so jerky is that the exhaust manifold is pushing the exhaust into the open air.
Slow-Speed Lagging
The catalytic converter is no longer there to absorb the force of the exhaust. Unfortunately, it is also no longer there to help the engine produce low-end torque. This is the torque production that you need for your vehicle to operate smoothly when you are driving at slower speeds. Until you have the catalytic converter replaced, your automobile will lag when you are driving slowly.
Noticeable Exhaust Odors
Finally, the above problems will make driving your automobile frustrating. This being said, it also becomes dangerous to drive your vehicle if the catalytic converter is missing. As we mentioned above, the exhaust manifold pushes the exhaust gases into the environment. This gives them the chance to float into your passenger cabin. You may start to feel sick while you are driving.
Give us a call today if your catalytic converter has been taken. We can replace the converter so your vehicle will pass the smog check.