What will happen if the secondary air pump is not replaced when it fails?

[DiVera]

The secondary air pump failing and not being replaced will affect the three-way catalytic converter. Below are specific details about the secondary air pump: 1. Function: The secondary air pump supplies air to the three-way catalytic converter when the engine is cold. This allows the exhaust gases to mix with the oxygen in the air for secondary combustion, thereby increasing the temperature of the three-way catalytic converter. This helps the catalytic converter reach its optimal operating temperature more quickly, reducing the emission of harmful substances and serving an environmental protection purpose. 2. Other Causes: The symptoms of a faulty secondary air pump include the illumination of the check engine light and the appearance of a fault code indicating "incorrect secondary air flow." These symptoms may also be caused by other issues such as a broken secondary air pipe, a ruptured vacuum hose, a damaged secondary injection valve, incorrect positive wire installation, or a blocked exhaust channel in the cylinder head.

[JulietDella]

My old car started having issues with the secondary air pump last year. At first, I didn't think it was a big deal, but then the engine warning light stayed on constantly, and I could smell pungent exhaust fumes every time I started the car. The worst part was failing the annual inspection last year - the test showed emissions exceeded standards by 30%, and I had to temporarily hire a fixer to pass. The mechanic warned that leaving it unrepaired would cause carbon buildup in the exhaust system and premature failure of the catalytic converter, which would cost 3,000-4,000 yuan to replace. Now the engine shudders during cold starts, and fuel consumption has increased by over half a liter. While you might not notice it normally, ignoring this problem is really digging your own grave.

[JanelleLynn]

Last time I encountered this issue, I inquired at an auto repair shop. The mechanic said the secondary air pump's main function is to inject fresh air into the exhaust system to assist combustion. If it's broken and not replaced, unburned fuel-air mixture will accumulate in the exhaust system during cold starts. Over time, the most direct consequence is clogging of the catalytic converter, and the exhaust pipe may even corrode and develop holes. My car's exhaust pipe later rusted through, costing over 2,000 to replace the entire system. Plus, there was always a popping noise at idle. Not to mention the failed emissions test - local inspection stations are now extremely strict, and there's no passing without proper repairs.

[LaAiden]

My friend's car had the secondary air pump warning light on for half a year without being addressed. Then during a long-distance trip, he felt intermittent power loss when accelerating, and the tachometer needle kept fluctuating. At the dealership, they found the oxygen sensor clogged with carbon deposits and a burnt exhaust valve. The repair bill showed 800 for parts and 500 for labor. The worst part was the fuel consumption skyrocketed during that period - what used to be 400km per 300 yuan of fuel dropped to 350km. Now he keeps reminding me to check warning lights immediately, as small issues left unattended can indeed turn into major problems.