If your German car didn’t pass the last emissions test, then bring it to a VW and Audi repair center to find out why it failed. Due to the intricate parts and construction, it’s easy for a general mechanic to get the diagnosis wrong. For German vehicles, the issue is often connected to the catalytic converter. Maintain this auto part, and emissions testing should be a clear pass every time.
Why Catalytic Converters Fail
Catalytic converters wear out for multiple reasons. A typical cause is an incorrect fuel mixture. This creates too much heat, causing the catalyst to melt. Subsequently, this leads to deposit accumulation that inhibits airflow. In addition, the melted metal also leads to a gaseous buildup in the exhaust, causing the vehicle to stall.
Besides stalling and emissions test failure, here are several additional signs of a faulty converter:
- The car won’t start
- A significant loss in acceleration
- Reduction in fuel efficiency
- The Check Engine light switches on
If you have the skill, you can conduct a DIY evaluation. Pull out the oxygen sensor from the exhaust system and drive the car around the neighborhood. If there’s a noticeable change in handling, then the catalytic converter is probably clogged. Continue Reading →