Service Catalytic Converters

Ford Catalytic Converter Replacement Service in Newark

Catalytic converters help reduce the vehicle's emissions output by using precious metal or ceramic oxides on the inner walls of the converter to prevent harmful exhaust gases from passing uncontrolled into the engine. An engine's cat or converter's lifespan is typically ten to fifteen years.

The following are some signs that your catalytic converter may need replacing:

Your gas mileage has been declining significantly
Your car has been emitting a foul smell recently inside the cabin.
You see black smoke coming out of your tailpipe
You note an increase in engine temperature. This might be due to a buildup of unburnt particles in the combustion chambers.
Check engine light warning

If your vehicle’s catalytic converter has been affected in some way, or stolen, you might be emitting excessive amounts of carbon dioxide on roadways. Some states might consider this to be illegal and charge you fines and/or additional maintenance fees. There can also be an uptick in vehicle maintenance costs associated with the symptoms listed above.

Contact us today at (341) 227-0099 or schedule an appointment using the button below if you think something may be wrong with your catalytic converter.

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What is a Catalytic Converter and how does it work?

The catalytic converter is a part of the exhaust pipe that superheats unburned particles in the engine's exhaust gas. There are usually platinum, rhodium, or palladium in a catalytic converter as the catalyst. These are all very valuable metals and this is the primary reason in the increase of cat converter theft cases seen in the last couple of years.

During this process, the particles in the "dirty" exhaust are burned and turned into water vapor and CO2. A bad smell, a rough run, or a misfire could happen if these precious metals can't get rid of unburned hydrocarbons in the exhaust. The check engine light could also come on.

What Causes Catalytic Converter Failure?

The good news is that it is one part that many automakers build to last for the lifetime of the vehicle. The bad news is that time and nature sometimes intervene. Often, a problem elsewhere in the engine is the culprit. Issues such as coolant leaks or spent spark plugs can cause the unit to overheat and begin to deteriorate. An odd noise when you start your engine can be a sign that your cat converter is failing.

Also, if you only drive your car in the city, soot can build up inside of the catalytic converter and speed up the same fate. That’s why one sign is poor engine performance. It has to work harder to get the emissions through the exhaust system. Sometimes, physical damage can happen from potholes or other hazards.

Your check engine light will let you know when something isn't right. But, it doesn't always mean that your catalytic converter is broken. It could be as simple as a loose fuel cap. If it's flashing, then it is an indication of a more serious problem and you should get off the road right away and seek professional help.

Getting to the root of the problem

If you’ve noticed any changes in your car's performance and/or an odd noise when starting it, there is a chance that the catalytic converter has failed. We can help diagnose the problem before any major damage occurs to your catalytic converter by checking for codes with our scanner and perform a visual inspection under the hood. It may turn out that another part on your vehicle needs replacement, but we'll do everything possible to pinpoint where the issue lies so you don't have to worry about costly repairs down the road!

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I still drive with a bad catalytic converter?

In theory, yes. You should be able to drive with a bad catalytic converter almost indefinitely. This can be against local regulations and may result in fines and/or increase your risk of being pulled over by law enforcement.

Can a bad or broken catalytic converter cause problems?

Yes. A poorly functioning converter can potentially increase the strain to the engine and cause shifting issues. The 02 or air flow sensors can also be affected.

Can you repair a catalytic converter?

In most cases you will need to fully replace the catalytic converter. This is an important component of your exhaust system which cuts down on air pollution. The converter uses precious metals so there is often little difference in costs associated with repairing vs replacing your cat converter.

How much does it cost to replace a catalytic converter?

Catalytic converter replacement costs can vary widely depending on the make and model of your vehicle. Typical replacement costs tend to fall in the $1000 -$3000 range.

What are the warning signs of a faulty catalytic converter?

The most common sign is a sulfurous smell (think rotten eggs) in the cabin. Other signs may include your check engine light turning on, a decrease in gas milage, failed emissions test, black smoke coming out of the tail pipe, increase in engine temperature, and/or reduced acceleration.

Why do people steal catalytic converters?

Catalytic converters contain rare and expensive minerals such as platinum, palladium, and rhodium. Thieves can sell stolen converters scrap dealers for around $80 - $200 each.

Ford Maintenance & Service

Our Ford service center near San Jose is staffed with expert technicians who can handle your maintenance needs.

Schedule Service - Air Conditioner Repair - Check Engine Light - Seasonal Maintenance - Catalytic Converter Replacement - Transmission Repair - Engine Sputtering - Brake Pad Squeaking - Oxygen Sensor - Oil Change - Shop Tires - Coolant Leaks

Fremont Ford

39700 Balentine Drive, Newark, CA 94560

Hours

Sales Hours

Monday	9:00AM - 8:00PM
Tuesday	9:00AM - 8:00PM
Wednesday	9:00AM - 8:00PM
Thursday	9:00AM - 8:00PM
Friday	9:00AM - 8:00PM
Saturday	9:00AM - 8:00PM
Sunday	10:00AM - 7:00PM

Service Hours

Monday	7:30AM - 6:00PM
Tuesday	7:30AM - 6:00PM
Wednesday	7:30AM - 6:00PM
Thursday	7:30AM - 6:00PM
Friday	7:30AM - 6:00PM
Saturday	8:00AM - 5:00PM
Sunday	Closed
you break it we fix it

Parts Hours

Monday	7:30AM - 6:00PM
Tuesday	7:30AM - 6:00PM
Wednesday	7:30AM - 6:00PM
Thursday	7:30AM - 6:00PM
Friday	7:30AM - 6:00PM
Saturday	8:00AM - 5:00PM
Sunday	Closed

Although every reasonable effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information contained on this site, absolute accuracy cannot be guaranteed. This site, and all information and materials appearing on it, are presented to the user "as is" without warranty of any kind, either express or implied. All vehicles are subject to prior sale. Price does not include applicable government fees and taxes, finance charges, electronic filing charges, and emission testing charges. ‡Vehicles shown at different locations are not currently in our inventory (Not in Stock) but can be made available to you at our location within a reasonable date from the time of your request, not to exceed one week.

WARNING: Operating, servicing and maintaining a passenger vehicle or off-road vehicle can expose you to chemicals including engine exhaust, carbon monoxide, phthalates, and lead, which are known to the State of California to cause cancer and birth defects or other reproductive harm. To minimize exposure, avoid breathing exhaust, do not idle the engine except as necessary, service your vehicle in a well-ventilated area, and wear gloves or wash your hands frequently when servicing your vehicle. More info at P65Warnings.ca.gov