The emission system in your car is not only important for helping to protect the environment but it also plays an important role in fuel efficiency and your engine’s performance.
An emission control system is designed to reduce the amount of harmful pollutants released into the environment through the exhaust gases produced by a vehicle’s engine.
Some of the key parts of an emission system include:
Catalytic Converter: One of the most crucial components in the emission control system, the catalytic converter uses chemical reactions to turn harmful exhaust emissions into less harmful
substances, such as carbon dioxide, nitrogen, and water vapor.
Oxygen (O2) Sensors: These sensors monitor the oxygen content in the exhaust gases. These sensors send feedback to the engine control unit (ECU) to adjust the air-fuel mixture to make
sure the engine runs properly.
Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR) System: This system recirculates a portion of exhaust gases back into the engine’s cylinders. This helps reduce the production of nitrogen oxides, a
major contributor to smog and acid rain.
Just like the other parts in your car, the components in your emissions system will experience wear and tear over time.
Here are some signs that there may be some issues with your emissions system:
Check Engine Light: This one is pretty obvious but the most common sign that you potentially have an emissions issue is your check engine light illuminating. This light could indicate any
number of issues, including emissions problems.
Decreased Gas Mileage: Getting less mileage per gallon on your road trips? Having to stop more often to fill the tank? This could be a sign of an emissions system failure.
Increased Exhaust Emissions: Do you see dark smoke or soot coming from your car’s tailpipe? This may be a sign of a problem with combustion or emission control devices.
Smell of Gas: The smell of gas around your car can indicate a problem with the emissions system. This requires immediate attention as fuel vapors are dangerous and highly flammable.
You should have the vehicle serviced immediately.
Engine Performance: Problems with emission components such as oxygen sensors or the catalytic converter can cause your engine to run roughly – shaking, stalling, or misfiring. – while
idling or accelerating.
Faulty Oxygen Sensor: A common emissions-related problem in European cars is a malfunctioning oxygen sensor. This can lead to inefficient fuel burning and increased pollution.
Difficulty Getting the Engine Started: Having trouble getting your car started? A malfunctioning emissions system could contribute to the problem, especially for cars that have
been sitting for a while or during cold weather.
If you’ve noticed a sudden illumination of the check engine light, increased fuel stops, or an unusually loud engine, it could indicate a problem with your vehicle’s emissions system.
Our skilled team at Performance Auto Specialists specializes in European auto repair, specifically for BMW, Mercedes-Benz, Volvo, Mini, Volkswagen, Jaguar, Audi, and Porsche.
Performance Auto Specialists – European Car Experts
Performance Auto Specialists has offered affordable, reliable repair and maintenance to Wilmington residents since 1991. Our team of trained technicians and master mechanics
diagnose and repair problems with nearly any make or model of vehicle with state-of-the-art computer diagnostics and good old-fashioned hard work.
Contact us today!
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