Catalytic Converter Replacement in Albuquerque
Welcome to Brown’s Automotive Experts – modern, clean, family friendly auto repair shops in Albuquerque and Rio Rancho. Our five locations offer comprehensive automotive emissions services and repairs, including catalytic converter replacement. Replacing catalytic converters used to be a once-in-a-while event. Unfortunately, due to catalytic converter theft, it has become a fairly frequent repair throughout the US.
Catalytic converters have no moving parts, so mechanical failure is simply not in the cards. Catalytic converters can fail if the emission system malfunctions for a period of time – though with modern sensors and the check engine warning light, owners usually get advanced warning and have the time to get the system repaired before it damages the catalytic converter.
However, around the US, the most frequent cause of catalytic converter replacement is theft. Due to high prices of precious metals used in catalytic converters, thieves find stealing catalytic converters to be a lucrative activity. It can take as little as a minute and a half to steal one. Having said that, the combined results of actions by the Albuquerque City Council, Governor Grisham and local police appear to have reversed the trend in catalytic converter thefts around Albuquerque.
Catalytic converters are designed to clean up emission gases. They burn up any incompletely burned fuel-air mixture, before it emerges out of the tail pipe, with the polluting molecules being split into (mostly) water vapor, carbon dioxide and nitrogen. Palladium, platinum, and rhodium are used as catalysts in this process, and these precious metals are coveted by thieves.
Catalytic converter replacement is a fairly straightforward process – unless the converter had been stolen. Thieves often damage other components in the process, resulting in additional repairs. Oxygen sensor replacement is the most frequent “by-product” of catalytic converter theft. If your vehicle had its catalytic converter stolen, we recommend bringing it to one of our auto repair shops, so we can ascertain the extent of the damage. We may also be able to assist you with the insurance claim.
Signs of Impending Catalytic Converter Failure
The good news is that the symptoms of a failing catalytic converter can be similar to symptoms that occur when other components fail, components that are less expensive to repair. But it takes a professional mechanic with professional tools to discover the root cause of the problem – so if you notice any of the symptoms listed below, call Brown’s Automotive Experts to get your vehicle professionally diagnosed and repaired. Here is the list:
- Engine misfires
- Check engine light “on”
- Vehicle engine may be running rough
- Loss of power
- Exhaust gases may have unpleasant odor
If your car exhibits any of the above symptoms, bring it to one of our Albuquerque area repair shops for an inspection and diagnosis. If the catalytic converter needs to be replaced, we will let you know what it will take to get it done. When the repairs are completed, we will check the engine for any exhaust leaks and take your vehicle for a test drive to make sure everything functions correctly under real-world driving conditions.
When you bring your vehicle to one of our Albuquerque auto repair facilities, you will be greeted by our friendly service advisors, and can also expect:
- 36 months / 36,000 miles nationwide warranty
- Nationally ASE certified technicians working on your vehicle
- Original Equipment equivalent or better quality parts
- Free local ride for your convenience
Brown’s Automotive Experts auto repair shops offer full range of automotive services. So whether your vehicle needs oil change, engine repairs, or catalytic converter replacement, give us a call to make an appointment. You can also make an appointment online, on our website, if you find it more convenient.