Catalytic Converter Replacement
March 23, 2025
Many of us have become aware of how important it is to keep our planet’s air clean, and your vehicle has a key component that helps do just that: the catalytic converter. It’s in the exhaust system, and its job is to superheat unburned, harmful byproducts in the exhaust, so they don’t get spewed out into the atmosphere.
There’s another important purpose the catalytic converter has: it improves your vehicle’s efficiency.
Most of us don’t give the catalytic converter much thought until it breaks or someone steals yours, something that’s been happening much more frequently in recent years. The reason people steal them is that catalytic converters use precious metals such as platinum, palladium, and rhodium to do their job. So, they contain valuable materials thieves can sell.
The most likely reason you will have to replace your catalytic converter is age. The more distance your vehicle travels and the more hours your engine runs, it’s putting wear and tear on the converter. T
You can tell if your catalytic converter is failing by looking out for these signs:
- Smell of rotten eggs inside your cabin or outside near the exhaust
- Check Engine light is on
- Vehicle power isn’t what it used to be, or fuel economy has plunged
- Vehicle backfires
If you need a new catalytic converter, it can be replaced with an original equipment part if it’s available, or an aftermarket converter can be welded into the exhaust pipe. It’s not uncommon for oxygen sensors to need replacing as well. The technician will also check for other problems in your powertrain that may have contributed to your converter failing.
Check to see if an emissions test is required where you live. If it is, you will have to have a properly functioning catalytic converter to pass it.
Courtesy Auto Repair Plus
967 Bon Air Ave
Tiffin, Ohio 44883
419-443-0797
http://www.courtesyautorepairplus.com
More articles from Courtesy Auto Repair Plus

Courtesy Auto Repair Plus Engine Air Filter Replacement
April 15, 2026
When your experienced Courtesy Auto Repair Plus technician changes your oil, he will also inspect your air filter. You shouldn't need a new air filter at every oil change, but you will need to change it regularly. Heed your technician's auto advice if they tell you to change your air filter.An ... More

Shifty Letters PRNDL (Transmission)
April 14, 2026
You probably figured out those shifty letters. They're what you see on your automatic transmission shifter and stand for Park, Reverse, Neutral, Drive and Low. Your automatic transmission is one of the great automotive inventions; here are some ways you can keep yours working well. Maintain yo... More

What is a TSB? (Technical Service Bulletins)
March 29, 2026
If your vehicle had something in its design or production that the manufacturer had figured out had an unanticipated problem, you'd want to know about it. And you'd want it fixed. There is something that can help drivers with just such a scenario. It's called a Technical Service Bulletin, or TSB.... More
