A catalytic converter is part of your Lincoln’s exhaust system and is crucial in converting harmful emissions into cleaner and safer exhaust gases. When it fails or breaks, it affects your vehicle’s performance and results in poor gas mileage. If you own a Corsair, Aviator, or Nautilus, below are signs that indicate when you need a new converter from your Lincoln dealer.
The Check Engine Light Goes On
The exhaust gases won’t be adequately catalyzed if the converter fails. The oxygen sensors constantly monitor the converter and exhaust gas levels and will trigger the check engine light if something is wrong. It’s vital to schedule a service appointment immediately when the check engine light is illuminated to prevent further damage.
Your Car Is Slow To Accelerate
When your converter starts to fail, one of the initial symptoms you’ll notice is a lack of power when you accelerate. A buildup of carbon inside the honeycomb mesh or the mesh melting due to excessive heat from unburned fuel causes a blockage. Your car’s engine requires appropriate exhaust flow, and when the flow is restricted, it will be challenging to accelerate, particularly when going uphill or towing a load.
Your Car’s Heavy on Gas
If your converter is malfunctioning, it can cause a restriction in the exhaust flow, making your vehicle feel sluggish when accelerating. To compensate for the lack of power, you may press the gas pedal harder, which will cause the engine to inject more fuel into the cylinders. This, in turn, will result in your car burning more gas than usual.
You Hear Rattling From Under Your Car
If you hear rattling noises from under your car when you start it or while it’s idling, it might be a sign that your converter is old or damaged. It’s vital to replace the converter as soon as possible to avoid chunks of deteriorating material from getting into the muffler, which could lead to starting problems and stalling.
You Smell Sulfur
If you notice a strong odor similar to rotten eggs, it could indicate that your converter is not doing its job correctly. Gas has tiny amounts of sulfur that turn into hydrogen sulfide during the combustion process.
The converter is meant to transform this unpleasant-smelling hydrogen sulfide into sulfur dioxide, which is odorless. If the converter is not functioning correctly, it will not alter the hydrogen sulfide, and the unburnt fuel in the exhaust will produce a sulfurous odor that smells like rotten eggs.
It’s important to note that a converter typically has a lifespan of about 100,000 miles or ten years. However, to reduce the risk of the converter breaking and prolong its lifespan, you must take your car for regular maintenance to your dealer. If your converter is not doing its job, call Asheville Lincoln today to schedule a service appointment, and the certified technicians will replace your converter expertly to ensure your Lincoln performs at its best.
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