If you’ve had the catalytic converter stolen from underneath your Mazda, do not worry. Mazcare in Marietta can help. People steal catalytic converters because they are made out of rhodium, palladium, and platinum. These precious metals mean money in the pocket for the thief. You will know that something is wrong the minute you start your Mazda. Let’s talk more about this below.
Loud and Roaring Engine
When you turn the ignition key or press the start button, the Mazda will roar loudly when it fires up. Unfortunately, it will also run loudly. The loud noise is being caused by the exhaust manifold shoving the exhaust out of it and into an empty space. The empty space is where the catalytic converter used to be, and the converter muffled the noise and force of the manifold’s exhaust push.
Illuminated Check Engine Light
Aside from an engine that sounds like a NASCAR race car, you will also see that the check engine light is illuminated on the dashboard. Unfortunately, the light is going to stay on until you have a new catalytic converter installed in your Mazda. The exhaust system has sensors that detect problems. In this case, they report error codes to the engine control module that pertain to the missing converter.
Acceleration That Jerks
If you put the Mazda in gear and press down on the accelerator, your Mazda is going to jerk violently forward. This is the force of the exhaust exiting the exhaust manifold. Every time you accelerate your Mazda, it will jerk. Unfortunately, the only way to resolve this problem is to replace the catalytic converter. It’s better to avoid driving your Mazda until this auto repair is done.
Sputtering at Slow Speeds
Another engine performance problem that is caused by a stolen catalytic converter is sputtering at slow speeds. The engine in your Mazda produces two types of torque: low-end torque and high-end torque. The former helps the engine run smoothly when you are driving slowly; the latter helps the engine run smoothly when you drive fast. The missing converter affects the low-end torque production.
Strong Vehicle Exhaust Odors
Finally, aside from problems with the Mazda’s engine performance, a missing catalytic converter also makes it dangerous to drive your Mazda. As we mentioned above, the manifold pushes the exhaust into the open air. As such, the exhaust can waft into the passenger cabin and make you sick.
Mazcare in Marietta, GA, would be happy to help. Call us today to set up an appointment for your Mazda so we can replace the catalytic converter and repair any additional exhaust system damage.