What to Do When the Check Engine Light Comes On Due to a Catalytic Converter Issue?

[GrantRose]

If the check engine light comes on, you can follow these steps: First, check whether the engine is running normally, such as whether there is shaking, black smoke, or difficulty starting. If any of these issues exist, try not to start the engine again. Note: If the red light is on, do not start the engine under any circumstances. If the engine is running normally and the car can be driven, go to a service station as soon as possible to diagnose the issue. The service station can easily read the fault code using a portable diagnostic tool, obtain fault information, and perform targeted repairs. If the engine is running normally, the owner can also try gently reconnecting various wiring harness connectors, as a loose connection may be the cause. Alternatively, repeatedly turning the key to the ON position may reset the light. Generally, the check engine light may come on due to the following seven reasons: Sensor failure: Sensors such as the coolant temperature sensor, crankshaft position sensor, air flow sensor, intake air temperature sensor, and oxygen sensor may become damaged, have poor contact, or experience signal interruption. When the car's ECU cannot accurately obtain engine data, the check engine light will illuminate. Fuel or oil quality issues: If fuel or engine oil is not added according to the manufacturer's requirements, it may cause engine wear and trigger the check engine light. Poor combustion of the air-fuel mixture: Poor combustion can lead to engine carbon buildup or knocking. When detected by the oxygen sensor and reported to the ECU, the check engine light will illuminate as a warning. Issues such as spark plug failure, ignition coil failure, fuel pump failure, or clogged fuel lines can cause poor combustion. Turbocharging issues: Problems with the intake boost pipes or turbocharger can also trigger the check engine light. The most common issue is turbocharger damage, which may also cause symptoms such as oil leaks, excessive oil consumption, reduced power, metallic noises, or blue/black smoke from the exhaust. Intake issues: If the car's intake system encounters problems, it may lead to clogged engine pipes, and in severe cases, the check engine light will illuminate. A dirty or uncleaned air filter can cause intake issues. Exhaust issues: Exhaust system problems can also trigger the check engine light. Common causes include rear oxygen sensor failure, catalytic converter failure, exhaust camshaft or bearing failure, with the catalytic converter being the most frequent issue. Using leaded gasoline, lead- or silicon-containing lubricant additives, physical damage to the catalytic converter, or fuel system failures can easily cause catalytic converter problems. Anti-theft system failure: If the car's electronic anti-theft system malfunctions or the anti-theft controller does not match the engine's electronic controller, the anti-theft system may prevent the engine from operating normally, and the check engine light will illuminate.