RSW European Auto Repair can install a new catalytic converter in your Volkswagen’s exhaust system if someone stole the original one. This might seem like an odd type of theft, but one of the precious metals in catalytic converters is platinum. Consequently, people will take the converters by sawing them out of the exhaust system. We are going to list the signs that the catalytic converter is gone below.
Loud and Roaring Engine
You might be startled when you fire up your VW’s engine because it will be much louder than normal and roar like a lion. This unusual sound will increase when you press down on the accelerator. The catalytic converter muffles the noise of the exhaust being pushed into it by the exhaust manifold. Now, the manifold is pushing the exhaust into an open space. Consequently, this push is quite loud.
Illuminated CEL Warning
The other thing that you are going to notice is the check engine light on the dashboard will turn on and not turn off like it normally does. This is because the exhaust system is malfunctioning. Anytime a system malfunctions in your VW, sensors send error codes to the engine control unit. The unit will turn on the check engine light because it received error codes from the exhaust sensors.
Acceleration Problems
We recommend that you avoid driving your Volkswagen. If you do operate the vehicle, you will discover that the acceleration is jerky and punchy. Going back to the exhaust being pushed out of the exhaust manifold, the manifold does this using quite a bit of force. The converter is not there to absorb the force so your VW will jerk forward every time you press down on the accelerator.
Slow-Speed Problems
The VW’s engine is also going to have difficulty producing enough power for the vehicle to sustain operation at slow speeds. This can make driving the Volkswagen difficult, especially on surface streets. It is better to contact a towing service to have your Volkswagen towed to our shop.
Strong Exhaust Odors
The reason for this isn’t just because the Volkswagen is having problems operating. The primary reason is that you will end up with exhaust inside the Volkswagen’s passenger cabin if the catalytic converter is missing. You don’t need us to tell you that inhaling this exhaust can make you seriously ill.
Call RSW European Auto Repair in Kinnelon and Green Brook Township, NJ, today if you need to schedule a service visit for your Volkswagen.