How to Determine if the Catalytic Converter is Clogged?
2 Answers
Increased fuel consumption, decreased power, and no airflow at the exhaust pipe indicate a clogged catalytic converter. Below are specific details about the severity of catalytic converter clogging: 1. Mild Clogging Stage: At this stage, chemical complexes are adsorbed on the catalyst surface, only manifesting as reduced exhaust purification efficiency and excessive emissions. Colored smoke from the exhaust pipe is often visible. 2. Moderate Clogging Stage: Chemical complexes have accumulated to a certain extent on the catalyst surface. This stage is characterized by increased exhaust backpressure, higher fuel consumption, and decreased power. The engine warning light usually comes on at this point. 3. Severe Clogging Stage: Due to significant clogging, the catalytic converter's operating temperature rises. This stage presents as a severe drop in power, frequent stalling, and in extreme cases, a red-hot exhaust pipe, unusual noises, and foul-smelling exhaust.
Recently, I've noticed a significant lack of power when driving. Even when I floor the accelerator, the car still feels sluggish, especially noticeable when climbing hills. The engine warning light on the dashboard frequently comes on, and an OBD scanner showed low catalytic efficiency. Fuel consumption has also increased sharply—previously, a full tank could last 500 kilometers, but now it's down to 400 kilometers before needing a refill. The exhaust pipe feels much hotter than usual, and the exhaust emits a strong sulfur smell. Considering all these symptoms together, I'm pretty sure the catalytic converter is clogged. Finally, I took it to the repair shop for confirmation, and upon opening it up, sure enough, there was a layer of carbon buildup and broken ceramic honeycomb inside.
