Long-term car ownership always leads to complications. Despite your best efforts, problems might still arise with your car. The catalytic converter in Honda CRVs is one issue that frequently arises, either because it is broken or doesn’t function properly. The catalytic converter should always be in good working order as it helps reduce exhaust emissions from the vehicle. One of the most frequent causes of a check engine light on your Honda CRV’s dashboard is a failing catalytic converter. If this light appears on your dashboard, your catalytic converter most likely has a problem. In this article, we’ll discuss how to change your Honda CRV’s catalytic converter so that the check engine light goes out once more and everything returns to normal.
Check Engine Light Behavior
If your Honda CRV has a check engine light, you’ll probably notice that it frequently flickers on and off or remains illuminated. Typically, a fault code will be shown on the car’s onboard computer along with the check engine light. You can determine the issue from the trouble code. You may typically seek up the meaning of the issue code online if you’re unsure of it. The check engine light on an old Honda CRV will blink a predetermined number of times before staying on. A light on more recent Honda CRV models will remain on while the engine is running. A problem with the car’s engine system is indicated by the check engine light. The issue could range in size from a minor system issue to a little carbon buildup in the engine. Your gas cap not being properly installed could potentially be the issue. You will either need to have someone come to you with a code reader or drive your car to a shop to get the problem rectified. The repair or replacement part will thereafter probably require a minor cost.
What is a Catalytic Converter?
Your Honda CRV’s catalytic converter is an emissions control mechanism created to lessen the quantity of air pollution it produces. The purpose of this equipment, which is connected to your car’s exhaust system, is to change dangerous gases like carbon monoxide and hydrocarbons into safe gases like carbon dioxide and water. Of all the components of your car’s exhaust system, the catalytic converter is one of the most crucial. Your check engine light will come on and your Honda CRV won’t be able to pass emissions testing if your catalytic converter is broken or not functioning properly. Anything from improper exhaust system installation to a broken fuel injection system can harm the catalytic converter. The catalytic converter will eventually need to be replaced because it will become clogged with carbon from the exhaust system. Check for the check engine light on your dashboard and a CAT problem code to see whether your catalytic converter is damaged (catalytic converter).
How to Tell If the Catalytic Converter Is Bad?
You will get a fault code for the catalytic converter if your Honda CRV has an onboard computer. The catalytic converter’s state of operation will be indicated by the fault code. If your vehicle lacks an onboard computer, you can manually retrieve the code by placing it in reverse and having a buddy turn the key. The odometer’s code can then be read. There will be a fault code that relates to your catalytic converter if it is malfunctioning. The code will reveal the nature of the catalytic converter’s problem and point to the problematic converter component. If your vehicle lacks an onboard computer, you can look for any evident indicators of damage in the exhaust system. Catalytic converters that are damaged frequently have a hole or corrosion in them. If the exhaust pipe from the car shows any clear symptoms of damage, you can also check that. If you suspect that your catalytic converter needs to be repaired, it is advisable to have a professional check it out. If it needs to be replaced, they will be able to let you know.
How to Diagnose Which Part of the Converter is Bad?
You will need to remove the converter and perform a few tests on it in order to determine which component of the catalytic converter is malfunctioning. You must first take off the exhaust pipe in order to remove the catalytic converter. After removing the converter and pipe, you must smell the converter and examine the pipe’s interior to determine which component of the converter malfunctioned. It’s possible that the converter’s interior is burned if there is a burnt smell coming from it. The catalyst inside the converter has to be replaced if the interior is black, which indicates burnt catalyst. If the converter has a hole in it, the outside is probably rusted. It is possible that you need to repair the converter’s interior if you see that it has corroded on the inside. If you see a buildup of carbon inside the exhaust pipe, it’s likely that the converter needs to be replaced because the interior is obstructed. If the exhaust pipe has a hole in it, the pipe’s exterior has probably rusted and needs to be replaced.
Why Does the Catalytic Converter Fail?
Several factors can cause catalytic converters to malfunction. A buildup of carbon inside the converter is the most frequent reason for a broken catalytic converter. On the inside of the converter, carbon might become lodged and clog it up. The car’s computer will flag a problem and set a code for the catalytic converter if the exhaust gases are not being transformed appropriately. Improper installation is another reason for a broken catalytic converter. The converter won’t work well and is likely to sustain harm if it is not put appropriately. A damaged catalytic converter can also be caused by a few uncommon things. Damage from a malfunctioning fuel injection system and improper cold air intake installation on the car are two instances. The best way to maintain the health of your catalytic converter is to regularly replace it and have the exhaust system and converter inspected.
How to Replace Your Honda CRV catalytic converter?
If the catalytic converter in your Honda CRV has been determined to be defective, you must replace the converter. You will probably need to replace the catalytic converter, which will be an expensive repair, but you have to do it if you want to pass emissions testing and resume driving your car. Cleaning the interior of the exhaust pipe before replacing the converter will lessen the likelihood that the new converter will become clogged with carbon. Watching a how-to video on YouTube or reading an in-depth article will teach you how to replace your catalytic converter. Because replacing the catalytic converter is a difficult process, you should probably hire a mechanic to complete the task. You should only replace the catalytic converter if you have no other option because doing so will cost you a lot of money. It should last you a long time if you take good care of your vehicle and have the converter updated correctly.
