What Causes Abnormal Car Exhaust Controller?
4 Answers
Code malfunction. Detailed introduction to the abnormal exhaust controller light being on is as follows: Code malfunction: A fault code is reported, but the operation is normal. It may be that an operation exceeded the control range of the computer, and the computer fed back a fault code, which can be eliminated first. Intake pressure sensor malfunction: According to computer detection information and further inspection, a certain fault is found that does not affect normal driving or has minimal impact, indicating an intake pressure sensor malfunction, which needs to be discovered and resolved in time. Oxygen sensor malfunction: If driving is severely affected and the normal operation of the engine is compromised, it is an oxygen sensor problem and requires immediate repair.
Having driven for over a decade, I often encounter several common issues with exhaust controllers. The oxygen sensor aging or becoming contaminated leads to inaccurate exhaust system detection, the ECU software bug in the computer board sends incorrect commands, the catalytic converter gets clogged restricting airflow, exhaust pipe leaks allow air to mix in misleading data, or a dirty throttle affects the air-fuel mixture ratio. These can all trigger the check engine light, causing engine shaking, a spike in fuel consumption, and exceeding emission standards. If not addressed promptly, it may damage the three-way catalytic converter, leading to higher repair costs. To prevent these issues, it's advisable to avoid using low-quality fuel to prevent carbon buildup and regularly clean the sensors. Of course, it's best to visit a professional shop to read the fault codes with a diagnostic tool for targeted repairs, as different vehicle models have varying settings—safety first.
I have experience in car repair. Abnormalities in the exhaust controller are mostly caused by sensor issues, such as the oxygen sensor being covered with dust or carbon particles, leading to incorrect readings, poor line contact, corrosion, short circuits, or relay failure causing poor switching. Additionally, exhaust manifold gasket leaks can cause an imbalance in the air-fuel mixture, leading the computer to misjudge the fault. From a practical standpoint, start with simple checks like cleaning the sensor to see if the fault light disappears. If that doesn't work, then check the wiring to avoid unnecessary disassembly and wasted money. In daily use, avoid high-speed operation immediately after a cold engine start; give the exhaust system time to warm up to reduce condensation and buildup. If the buildup is severe, it's essential to use a diagnostic scanner at a repair shop for precise fault location.
The main causes of abnormal exhaust controller are component contamination and blockage. Common issues include carbon buildup on oxygen sensors, internal blockage of the catalytic converter reducing efficiency, or loose exhaust pipe connections causing leaks, with improper maintenance being the key factor. Regular inspection and replacement of sensors, cleaning the exhaust system every 50,000 kilometers, using high-quality fuel, avoiding long-term short-distance driving, and preventing condensation can effectively prevent these problems. If abnormalities occur, the engine may lose power and fuel consumption may increase, requiring timely treatment to prevent worsening.
