The catalytic converter is an essential element of your vehicle’s exhaust system, responsible for reducing harmful emissions from the engine. However, over time it may become damaged or deteriorate, decreasing its effectiveness.
In this article, we’ll look into factors that influence catalytic converter lifespan and estimate how long a bad converter might last. Knowing these details allows you to make informed decisions about maintaining and repairing your car, so it runs optimally and smoothly.
The catalytic converter may last throughout the lifetime of the vehicle.
To this effect, if it goes bad over time, it would mean that it will not perform its function. Hence, replacement would be necessary to avoid your vehicle failing the emission test.
However, this article will answer these typical queries: Can your catalytic converter go bad? How long can a bad catalytic converter last? How long can I go without replacing a catalytic converter? How long last catalytic converter? How long is a catalytic converter supposed to last? How long should catalytic converters last on a car? How fast does a catalytic converter go bad? And more.
A thorough study of this guide would be helpful. Let’s get started!
How Long Will A Catalytic Converter Last
The lifespan of a catalytic converter is determined by factors such as driving conditions, engine performance, and maintenance habits. On average, these units last between 100,000-150,000 miles before needing replacement if damaged or not functioning correctly. Furthermore, factors like stop-and-go traffic, extended idling, or operating the vehicle excessively misfire-pronely may reduce its life expectancy.
It’s essential to note that if a catalytic converter malfunctions, it can lead to performance issues, increased emissions, and potential damage to other components of the vehicle’s exhaust system. If you suspect your catalytic converter may be malfunctioning, have it inspected by an experienced mechanic immediately.
Can Your Catalytic Converter Go Bad?
Of course, yes, your catalytic converter can go wrong!
No matter the quality of a vehicle component, it wouldn’t last forever. Some issues trigger the catalytic converter to go lousy.
And if it does, your vehicle’s performance may drop, or you may be unable to drive it even in severe cases.
On the off chance that your catalytic converter has gone wrong, you will be able to observe the following symptoms such as.
- Loss Of Acceleration Power
- Failure Of The Emission Test
- Check Engine Light Stays On
- Sudden Drop In Fuel Efficiency.
Let’s explore these symptoms below.
1. Loss Of Acceleration Power.
A clogged cat con would trap exhaust air and cause your engine to run less efficiently.
As a result, the increase in back pressure can make your vehicle stall, even jerk, or act as if it is in an airlock system. So, reduced engine performance is a symptom of something wrong with your cat con.
3. Failure Of The Emission Test.
In most states, such as Ohio, vehicles undergo annual emission tests to ensure that their catalytic converters are functional.
And failure to pass the test would attract a fine of a few dollars. The essence of doing this is limiting the excessive carbon release into the environment.
5. Check Engine Light Stays On.
The oxygen sensors in standard cars and trucks monitor the air-to-fuel ratio levels in the catalytic converter.
Suppose the sensors fail to regulate the efficiency of the exhaust system, then the check engine light would constantly stay on the dashboard.
Similarly, the lousy spark plug is the most common issue with failing catalytic converters.
A faulty spark plug would cause unburnt gas to overheat inside the cat con, so you should inspect this inexpensive part and replace it in due time.
7. Sudden Drop-In Fuel Efficiency.
If you notice a decrease in gas mileage, you should inspect and check your cat converter. There could have been a resistance in the flow of oxygen in the exhaust system.
This resistance would cause your engine to work harder than it should and eventually require more fuel for a few miles.
How Long Can A Bad Catalytic Converter Last?
If you are curious about how long a bad catalytic converter would last. A bad catalytic converter (partially clogged) can last for as long as you wish to drive.
However, going with a bad catalytic converter is pretty safe. But you might risk receiving a fine in areas where a vehicle may require an emission test.
In contrast, a bad catalytic converter might also lead to roaring sounds, smells of sulfur, and even the emission of thick black exhaust gas.
So, you shouldn’t drive with a bad catalytic converter for long to avoid a long-run cost.
How Long Can I Go Without Replacing A Catalytic Converter?
If your catalytic converter is faulty, you might still drive for a more extended period.
But the extent or how long is less precise than the press time. To elaborate, if your catalytic is partially clogged, you will drive as far as possible. And you may have no significant issues with your engine.
On the contrary, the engine might be affected if it is completely clogged. That said, cat cons will prevent you from driving your vehicle in extreme cases.
It would be wise to fix or replace the lousy catalytic converter rather than run with it.
How Long Last Catalytic Converter?
Without much ado, a catalytic converter can last 8 to 10 years or about 100,000 miles.
However, this time may vary depending on the owner’s maintenance ability and the vehicle brand.
If it becomes clogged, physically damaged, or even contaminated with engine oil, it might overheat and not last to the above time frame.
So, when you notice signs indicating that your catalytic converter is going lousy. Quickly get the services of an expert to diagnose the entire exhaust system before you replace it.
How Long Is A Catalytic Converter Supposed To Last?
The time frame at which a catalytic converter is supposed to last is about 50,000 to 100,000 miles (160,934 kilometers) or at least ten years. Although, in some cases, it might last 120,000 miles to 150,000 miles within the ten-year period.
You have to replace it when any issue arises within the time limit.
Since it can’t last forever, the catalytic converter could break down over time due to contamination, clogging, or physical damage.
If you wait for ten years or have concerns regarding a clogged catalytic converter, you might replace it.
How Fast Does A Catalytic Converter Go Bad?
With much experience and research in the automobile industry, the catalytic converter goes smoothly.
It can withstand some adverse effects as its lifespan is about 100,000 miles.
However, before this time, it may fail if it has overheated or got structural damage. These are issues that could make the catalytic converter fail before its lifespan.
On the other hand, proper care and maintenance would also make it last even beyond ten years.
Long-Term Effects Of Bad Catalytic Converter?
In the automobile industry, a minor fault may lead to significant damage if correct care is not received.
So, a bad catalytic converter would have these
long-term effects on your vehicle.
Do check out the effects below.
- Production of excess heat under the vehicle.
- Engine performance in the car.
- Misfiring/stalling the engine.
- Potential engine damage.
- Environment pollution – the greenhouse effect.
Conclusion.
Finally, the importance of your catalytic converter is for sure necessary for the ecosystem.
Without it, many cars would produce more harmful gases in the air.
It would be best to replace it when it is terrible beyond fixing. Always remember your residential regulations concerning the catalytic converter.
Do well to share this insightful guide with others!
Uchenna is a Radiographer and Auto parts mechanic who recently got his automotive diploma as an auto repair technician, and since then, has worked on fixing various car problems.
Working as just a radiographer, Uchenna didn’t just get all the fulfillment he desired, because he truly loved doing things tilted toward cars. As a kid, he would take apart his toy cars to see how they worked and would spend hours tinkering with his bike.
So, in 2017 he made the tough decision to become an auto mechanic. He threw himself into his studies and now loves every aspect of what he does.
He gets to work with his hands, solving problems and bringing cars back to life, and sharing his knowledge and easy quick-fix guide online are all part of what makes him feel fulfilled.
