what are symptoms of catalytic converter failure

Asked by condorhangars Oct 04, 2016 at 09:16 PM about the 2002 Buick LeSabre Custom Sedan FWD

Question type: Maintenance & Repair

When I apply the brakes, the car interior smells like a burnt candle! It doesn't do it every time, but it is happening more often. I wondered if this could be the catalytic converter going out or something with the exhaust system.

3 Answers

3,245

If it happens when you apply brakes than it's not related to the CC in any way. Symptoms: Oxygen sensor code coming up more often- Car rugs rough- CC would get hot and sometimes cherry red. Please click on "Mark helpful" if you're happy with the respond. Good luck :-)

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3,245

Check for leak on your wheel bearing! bad grease would leak on hot brake system (this is dangers! address as soon as possible). Please click on "Mark helpful" if you're happy with the respond. Good luck :-)

1 people found this helpful.
103,415

While I agree you should look over your brakes for source of burning smell, it still could be a bad CC. They give off more of a rotten egg smell though, and when you slow or stop, the fumes can waft into the car instead of being left behind. You can test for a bad CC; http://www.aa1car.com/library/converter.htm

3 people found this helpful.

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