Your Catalytic Converter: Everything You Need to Know

Understanding Your Vehicle’s Catalytic Converter: Maintenance Tips and Signs of Failure

Pollution is something we here in Arlington pay close attention to. (Even the University of Texas, Arlington is studying how pollution affects us and our wildlife). But, luckily our cars and trucks have a system in place to help decrease toxic emissions: Your catalytic converter.

Your vehicle’s catalytic converter plays an important role in reducing harmful emissions produced by your car or truck. Because it is the catalytic converter that converts toxic gases from the engine into less harmful substances before they exit the exhaust system. And this is vital not only for the environment but also for your vehicle’s overall performance. So, in this blog the experts at Meineke in Arlington look at how to best maintain your vehicle's catalytic converter and how to tell if it needs attention or repair.

How to Maintain Your Catalytic Converter

1. Use the Right Fuel: Always use the fuel grade recommended for your vehicle. Because poor-quality or incorrect fuel can clog the catalytic converter.

2. Avoid Ignoring Engine Issues: A malfunctioning engine can lead to unburnt fuel entering the exhaust system. And this can overheat and damage the converter.

3. Keep Your Exhaust System Healthy: Regularly inspect the exhaust system for leaks or damage that might affect the catalytic converter’s performance. And ensure your fuel filter is clean and maintained, as well.

4. Schedule Routine Maintenance: Following your vehicle’s maintenance schedule at Meineke on Poly Webb Road in Arlington ensures any potential issues are caught early. And this goes a long way to protecting your catalytic converter.

Signs Your Catalytic Converter Might Be Failing

1. Decreased Engine Performance: A clogged catalytic converter can restrict exhaust flow. And this leads to sluggish acceleration and poor fuel economy.

2. Rattling Noise: You may hear a distinct rattling sound coming from under your vehicle if the internal components of the converter break apart.

3. Check Engine Light: The oxygen sensors in your exhaust system can detect irregularities caused by a failing converter. And this will trigger the check engine light on your dashboard.

4. Increased Emissions: A noticeable increase in exhaust smell or visible smoke could indicate a malfunction.

Meineke in Arlington is Your Partner in Catalytic Converter Care

So, maintain your catalytic converter by addressing issues early. Because when you call Meineke in Arlington when you have car care issue, you can extend its lifespan, reduce repair costs, and keep your vehicle running smoothly.

If the Meineke in Arlington is not a convenient auto repair center for you, here are a few other Meineke auto repair centers in Texas:

Meineke Car Care Center - Hwy 123
1252 Highway 123
San Marcos, TX 78666
Call (512) 396-8285

Meineke Car Care - Altamesa Dr.
3012 Altamesa Blvd
Fort Worth, TX 76133
Call (682) 703-2378

Meineke Car Care - Bryant Irvin Rd.
5031 Bryant Irvin Road
Fort Worth, TX 76132
Call (817) 744-7900

Meineke Car Care - W Northwest Hwy.
11613 East Northwest Highway
Dallas, TX 75218
Call (214) 221-1177

Meineke Car Car - Broadway Blvd.
5615 Broadway Blvd.
Garland, TX 75043
Call (469) 366-9360

Meineke Car Care - Burnet Road
7829 Burnet Road
Austin, TX 78757
Call (512) 814-0877

Meineke Car Care - Valley View Lane 2513 Valley View Lane
Farmers Branch, TX 75234
Call (972) 247-2600

Meineke Car Care - North Bell Blvd.
2105 North Bell Blvd
Cedar Park, TX 78613
Call (512) 686-5491

Meineke Car Care - Kirkwood Rd.
2343 S. Kirkwood Road
Houston, TX 77077
Call (832) 288-5380

Meineke Car Care - Poly Webb Rd.
5980 Poly Webb Road
Arlington, TX 76016
Call (817) 765-2194

Meineke Car Care - W. Main St.
1550 West Main Street
Lewisville, TX 75067
Call (469) 312-3356