How to Handle Lexus Catalytic Converter Issues

A catalytic converter, often called a cat, is a vital part of the exhaust system of your vehicle’s engine. This device reduces harmful emissions and improves your car’s efficiency. There have been some issues with the catalytic converters in certain Lexus models. These issues can be fixed if the problems are caught early. This is why routine maintenance is so important.

What is a Catalytic Converter, and What Does it Do?

The catalytic converter is located under the vehicle, between the muffler and the engine, and attached to the exhaust pipe. As part of the vehicle’s exhaust system, its job is to “convert” the harmful emissions into less dangerous compounds. The toxic gasses created at the core of the engine after combustion takes place pass through the catalytic converter. The converter contains certain precious metals such as platinum, palladium, and rhodium, which initiate a chemical reaction with the noxious gasses and reduce them to less harmful gasses like water vapor, carbon dioxide, and nitrogen.

Why do Catalytic Converters Go Bad?

Some typical reasons why a catalytic converter might malfunction are listed below.

• Overheating: Engine misfires, rich fuel mixture, or a faulty oxygen sensor can all contribute to the engine overheating. This can destroy the components inside the converter, which are responsible for the chemical reaction.
• Leaks and Contaminants: Engine oil leaks, coolant leaks, or the wrong kind of fuel additives can leave a residue and clog the cat, reducing or halting its efficiency.
• Damage: Since the catalytic converter sits on the underside of the car, it is prone to impacts from road debris, which can easily rupture the unit.
• Unburned Fuel: When unburned fuel enters the exhaust system, it can create an explosion, like a backfire. The heat can melt the precious metals inside the cat and render them useless.
• Time and Wear: Over time, a converter will reach its end of life. The body will oxidize and corrode and the precious metals inside will be spent.

Look for These Signs That Indicate the Catalytic Converter is Malfunctioning

• Failed Emissions Test: This is definitely an indication that your Lexus’s catalytic converter is unable to clear out the toxic emissions.
• Engine Misfires: When exhaust gasses are not being released properly due to a bad catalytic converter, your engine will experience incomplete combustion, which causes misfires.
• Bad Gas Mileage: A malfunctioning cat will cause undue stress on the engine and that will reduce fuel efficiency.
• Sluggish Engine: For the same reason above, reduced engine performance is also a strong indication that your cat may not be working as intended.
• Poor Acceleration: If your Lexus is slow to respond to acceleration, it is probably due to a clogged cat.
• Difficulty Starting: Your Lexus should be able to start without a functioning cat, but a defective cat will create pressure on the engine, and cause misfires, which can lead to a difficult start.
• Clanking Noises: If you hear rattling, banging noises from under your Lexus, that could mean a broken or loose catalytic converter.
• Exhaust Smells Like Rotten Eggs: This is definitely a sign that the catalytic converter is not working properly because the exhaust contains sulfur, which is creating that smell.
• Unusual Smoke: If you see unusually thick, black smoke or dark smoke with a blueish tint from your tailpipe, it’s a good idea to have your mechanic check the catalytic converter.
• Check Engine Light (CIL): This malfunction indicator lamp (MIL) turns on when the onboard computer of your Lexus detects any kind of problem in the car’s engine. A professional mechanic can use a scanner to detect what the error codes are.

Preventive Measures at Professional Automotive

Some simple best practices could keep your Lexus and its catalytic converter in good condition.

• Regular maintenance is a must so that issues can be caught and addressed early.
• Make sure to use high-quality fuel to reduce contaminants.
• Use high-quality oil and perform regular oil changes.
• The moment you suspect any issues with your catalytic converter, make sure to bring it to us for an inspection before further damage occurs.

At Professional Automotive, our highly trained mechanics are here to help you with your car’s problems. Give us a call or book an appointment to visit us. We are in Marlborough, Massachusetts.