We here at RB Auto Service hope that you are never the victim of catalytic converter theft. This form of auto theft is done by sawing the converter out of the exhaust system and taking it. The reason why someone would do this is that catalytic converters are made from precious metals. You will know right away if the converter is missing from underneath your automobile. Here is why.
Loud/Roaring Engine
When you hop into the Volkswagen and fire up the engine, it will be much louder than it normally is. You will also hear it roaring like a lion. This is an indication that the converter is no longer underneath the VW to absorb the noise of the exhaust being pushed out of the manifold into it. This push is a forceful one that makes a lot of noise. Consequently, your engine will be extremely loud.
Check Engine Warning
You will also notice that the check engine light on the dashboard does not turn off like it normally does after you have started the engine. Your exhaust system sensors know right away that there is a problem. They will alert the engine control unit by sending error codes to it. The unit will try to resolve the problem, but it can’t. It cannot replace the converter. As such, it will turn on the CEL.
Acceleration Jerks
You may opt to drive your Volkswagen without the catalytic converter, but we strongly discourage you from doing so. Driving the vehicle will reveal performance issues related to the theft. The catalytic converter also absorbs the force caused by the exhaust manifold’s push. Because the converter isn’t there, your Volkswagen will jerk violently when you press down on the accelerator.
Poor Performance
Another performance problem the VW will have is it will struggle to operate at slower speeds. With the catalytic converter gone, the engine will struggle to produce the power it needs when you drive slowly. Consequently, your VW will sputter until you pick up speed and the engine switches to its high-end torque production. This can make driving the VW difficult.
Strong Exhaust Smells
The engine performance problems are not the reason why we discourage you from driving your VW, however. The reason why you should have the VW towed to our shop is that the vehicle exhaust is untreated and released into the open air. Consequently, you will inhale the exhaust while you are driving your Volkswagen, and you already know that this is dangerous.
RB Auto Service in Pinellas Park, FL, would be happy to help, so bring us up if your Volkswagen’s catalytic converter has been stolen.