Have you ever heard of the catalytic converter? If you're not overly familiar with what goes on under the hood of your car, then you probably think we're talking about a weapon from Star Wars. However, this car part is as real as it gets and it's critical for a safe drive time and an efficient performance. Toyota of Clermont is here to explain what the catalytic converter is, how it works, and why it's so important to maintain.
What is a catalytic converter?
The catalytic converter - as futuristic as it sounds - isn't actually from a galaxy far, far away. It's actually found in all internal combustion engine cars. This crucial car part is located underneath your car and has a big role in performance. Basically, it takes harmful, toxic gases that would be emitted via your car exhaust and converts them into less dangerous emissions. It does this through a redox reaction (another sci-fi term, we know) which basically is just a chemical reaction that changes the structure of the atoms. When all is said and done, it helps ensure that the emissions coming out of your car are cleaner.
But did you also know that it's illegal to operate a vehicle without a catalytic converter? Back before the 1970s, not many people paid close attention to vehicle emissions (unfortunately). Although the catalytic converter was invented in France in the late 19th century, it didn't actually show up in U.S. vehicles until the 1970s. This is when the U.S. E.P.A. became a lot more cognizant of what emissions were and how they affected the environment, and they set to dealing with them more effectively. After 1975, catalytic converters became a mandatory part of all gas-powered vehicles in the U.S. Not only that, but they also became mandatory on ships, trains, buses, motorcycles, forklifts, generators, and mining equipment.
Troubleshoot your catalytic converter with Toyota of Clermont's tips
Just like any other car part, the catalytic converter undergoes wear and tear and will need to be maintained and eventually, replaced. They're also stolen more frequently than you'd think - they contain precious metals so they're worth money and they're also conveniently located on the underside of your car, making then an easy target.
That's why it's critical to look out for warning signs and know how to troubleshoot this car part. Here are some signs to be aware of when it comes to your catalytic converter, straight from our Clermont Toyota service specialists.
- You smell rotten eggs or sulfur when you're operating your car.
- You feel excessive heat coming from under the vehicle.
- Your engine seems sluggish or delayed.
- Your car won't accelerate as quickly as it usually does.
- Your engine exhaust is putting out dark-colored smoke.
If you think you have an issue with your catalytic converter, don't delay having it fixed! Call Toyota of Clermont today and schedule car service. We're open seven days a week at (352) 404-7000. We're also conveniently located at 16851 State Road 50, just west of the Florida Turnpike.
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