Can a new catalytic converter be defective?

Chances are the original converter didn’t fail by itself, but conditions up stream hastened its demise. Most catalytic converter failures can be traced back to problems caused by what happens in the combustion chamber.

What causes a new catalytic converter to go bad?

Possible causes are an improper fuel mixture, incorrect timing, bad spark plugs, a malfunctioning oxygen sensor, sticking float, defective fuel injector or a faulty check valve. Oxygen Sensor Not Functioning Properly. Too rich and the catalyst can melt down from fuel burning inside the converter.

Can a catalytic converter cause engine damage?

Catalytic converters often last for 10 years or more, but they can become contaminated, clogged, overheated or physically damaged — leading to sluggish engine performance and, eventually, engine shutdown. If the exhaust flow is restricted, it means less air can get into the engine and performance suffers.

How do you break in a new catalytic converter?

To start the break-in procedure, start the car after you’ve replaced the cat. Let the car idle in place without applying any gas. When the engine warms up to its operating temperature, get inside and give the car enough gas to bump the RPMs to around 2500. Hold it there for 2 minutes and then release the gas.

What happens if you drive without a catalytic converter?

Harmful Car Emissions Your catalytic converter is named as such because it converts toxins into less harmful byproducts, such as water vapor and carbon dioxide. Without this component, your vehicle will no longer be filtering and reducing harmful emissions, including hydrocarbons, nitrogen oxides, and carbon monoxide.

How much is a new catalytic converter?

Catalytic converter replacement isn’t cheap. For most vehicles, the average cost of a catalytic converter repair is between $945 and $2475 including parts and labor. The catalytic converter cost itself can be up to $2250 of that.

Do you have to break in new catalytic converter?

A replacement catalytic converter needs a proper “break-in” period. If the converter is not warmed-up (broken-in) properly, the substrate inside could be adversely affected and eventually cause the converter to fail down the road.