Category: Audi Repair

Visit Our Los Angeles Experts to Address Your Audi’s Digital Dashboard Failure

Posted on February 13, 2024 by Gary Kasbarian - Audi Repair

Have you noticed any glitches in your Audi’s digital dashboard? If this sophisticated screen in your car begins to malfunction, don’t worry. These problems happen, and there are straightforward ways to fix them.

Audi’s digital dashboard is the command center of your driving experience. With a sleek, high-resolution display, it replaces traditional analog gauges, providing a customizable interface that can showcase navigation, media, and vital vehicle statistics. It’s a well-coordinated display of pixels meant to harmonize with the complex mechanisms within your vehicle’s engine. Let us look at some of the causes and signs of faulty digital dashboards in Audi.

Common Causes of Digital Dashboard Failures

Software Glitches: Think of your Audi’s digital dashboard as a smart computer built into your car. Just like your laptop or smartphone, it runs on software. Sometimes, bugs or glitches sneak in, disrupting the smooth flow of its functions. These can range from minor annoyances like a misbehaving screen to more complex issues affecting its entire operation.
Electrical Problems: Your car’s dashboard relies on a network of wires and a stable power supply to function properly. If there’s a glitch in the wiring or a disruption in the power flow, it can wreak havoc on the dashboard. This disruption might manifest as erratic behavior, sudden blackouts, or complete failure of the display.
Hardware Malfunctions: Inside your dashboard, there are various components working together seamlessly. However, like any mechanical system, these components can encounter faults. When something within this system goes wrong, it can lead to display problems, unresponsive controls, or other issues that make your dashboard less user-friendly.

How To Spot Digital Dashboard Trouble

It’s crucial to recognize the warning signs that hint at potential digital dashboard problems to avoid unexpected malfunctions:

Frozen Screen: Have you ever had your dashboard’s display freeze? It’s like hitting a pause button on your car’s digital life. This could be a red flag indicating a glitch or a deeper underlying issue that needs attention.
Unresponsive Controls: Another way to spot a faulty dashboard is when the buttons or touch-sensitive areas fail to respond. This unresponsiveness might point directly to a malfunction within the dashboard’s intricate system.
Fluctuating Display: The dashboard’s display can flicker randomly or behave inconsistently. This fluctuation in display behavior often signals an impending issue that might disrupt your driving experience.

Preventive Measures for Dashboard Care

Routine Maintenance: Regular inspections and proactive maintenance are the backbone of a healthy dashboard. Create a habit of regular inspections to detect issues early and prevent minor glitches from evolving into major headaches. Don’t procrastinate on issues you notice during these checks. Swift action can nip potential dashboard problems in the bud, saving you from future hassles.
Expert Handling: Resist the urge to be a DIY hero when it comes to dashboard repairs. Entrust your Audi to certified technicians with specialized knowledge to ensure accurate diagnosis and resolution without complicating matters. Dashboard systems are intricate—trial and error can lead to costly repairs.
Prevent Power Surges: Shield your dashboard from electrical mishaps for sustained performance. Consider installing surge protectors to safeguard against sudden power surges. These devices act as a first line of defense, preventing electrical spikes from damaging your dashboard’s delicate components. Ensure your vehicle’s electrical system is in peak condition. Periodic checks can detect and address potential issues that might otherwise lead to dashboard failures due to electrical irregularities.

Trust Carotech Automotive to Restore Your Audi’s Brilliance

At Carotech Automotive, we are the leading auto repair shop for all Audi repairs. If you notice any inconsistency in your Audi’s digital dashboard, you can trust us to handle it. Our team comprises highly trained technicians equipped with the expertise to diagnose and proficiently resolve any dashboard issues your Audi might face.

We are renowned as the premier repair shop for Audi owners in Los Angeles, CA, and we pride ourselves on delivering superior service, ensuring your driving experience maintains its unparalleled quality. Don’t allow dashboard glitches to impede your Audi’s performance—reach out to us promptly. Schedule an appointment and let our skilled professionals restore your Audi dashboard to its optimal state.

* Audi A7 Sportback Car Interior image credit goes to: Dmitrii Guldin.

Does Your Audi’s Spark Plug Need Replacing?

Posted on April 15, 2023 by Gary Kasbarian - Audi Repair

Your car’s spark plugs play a crucial role in the ignition process, providing the necessary spark to ignite the fuel and air mixture in your engine’s combustion chamber. Without functioning spark plugs, your car simply won’t start or run properly. However, spark plugs don’t last forever and will eventually need to be replaced. In this article, we’ll discuss some signs that indicate you need an Audi spark plug replacement.

1. Difficulty starting your car

If your car is having trouble starting, it may be due to worn or faulty spark plugs. Worn spark plugs can make it difficult for your engine to ignite the fuel and air mixture, which can cause the engine to crank for longer periods before starting. If you notice that your car is taking longer than usual to start or requires multiple attempts to start, it’s a good idea to have your spark plugs checked and replaced if necessary.

2. Engine misfires

If you’re experiencing engine misfires, it could be a sign that your spark plugs are failing. Misfires occur when the fuel and air mixture in one or more of your engine’s cylinders doesn’t ignite properly. This can cause your engine to shake or vibrate, and you may notice a loss of power or acceleration. If you’re experiencing engine misfires, it’s important to have your spark plugs checked and replaced to avoid further damage to your engine.

3. Poor fuel economy

If you’ve noticed that your car’s fuel economy has decreased, it could be a sign that your spark plugs are failing. Worn spark plugs can cause your engine to run less efficiently, which can lead to decreased fuel economy. If you’ve noticed a sudden drop in your car’s fuel economy, it’s worth having your spark plugs checked to see if they need to be replaced.

4. Engine warning light

If your engine warning light comes on, it could be due to a variety of issues, including faulty spark plugs. Your car’s onboard diagnostic system will detect any issues with your engine, including problems with your spark plugs, and will illuminate the warning light on your dashboard. If you see the engine warning light come on, it’s important to have your car checked by our professional mechanics to determine the cause of the issue.

5. Rough idling

If your car is idling roughly or unevenly, it could be due to faulty spark plugs. Spark plugs that are worn or dirty can cause your engine to idle roughly, and you may notice that your car is shaking or vibrating when at a stop. If you’re experiencing rough idling, it’s important to have your spark plugs checked and replaced if necessary to avoid further damage to your engine.

6. Engine surging

If your engine is surging or hesitating while you’re driving, it could be due to worn or faulty spark plugs. Surging occurs when your engine revs up and down while you’re driving, and you may notice a lack of power or acceleration during these surges. If you’re experiencing engine surging, it’s important to have your spark plugs checked and replaced to avoid further damage to your engine.

Spark Plugs Are An Essential Component To Your Audi’s System

Your Audi’s spark plugs are an essential component of your car’s ignition system, and they play a critical role in ensuring your engine runs smoothly and efficiently. If you’re experiencing any of the above symptoms, it’s important to have your spark plugs checked and replaced if necessary to avoid further damage to your engine.

It’s also important to have your spark plugs checked regularly as part of your car’s maintenance routine to ensure they’re functioning properly and to avoid any unexpected issues down the road. If you’re not sure whether your spark plugs need to be replaced, consult your owner’s manual or speak with one of our professional mechanics who can provide you with guidance and advice.

Book An Appointment With Carotech Automotive Today

Carotech Automotive in Los Angeles, CA is the go-to place for all of your car needs. Our technicians use brand-new parts, specifically designed for a swift Audi spark plug replacement. Don’t wait to get an appointment – book now to get that service you need. Carotech Automotive guarantees a high-quality experience: timely service with reliable advice.

Signs That Indicate Your Audi’s Timing Belt Needs a Replacement

Posted on June 20, 2022 by Gary Kasbarian - Audi Repair

Although Audis are known for being durable and luxurious vehicles, they are also somewhat infamous for having timing belt issues. If your Audi’s timing belt malfunctions, it can lead to serious consequences for the rest of your vehicle, including permanent engine damage. Therefore, all Audi owners should know how to identify and fix a failing timing belt before the problem gets out of hand.

The Timing Belt’s Purpose

Your Audi’s timing belt connects two other components within its engine: the camshaft and the crankshaft. While the camshaft pushes fuel and air into the combustion chamber, the crankshaft uses the energy produced by combustion to rotate the wheels. This process requires very delicate timing in order to succeed, which is where the timing belt comes in. By connecting the camshaft to the crankshaft, the timing belt ensures that these two components move synchronously. Thus, if your vehicle’s timing belt breaks, the engine may lose most or all of its power.

Causes of Timing Belt Failure

Because the timing belt is a central part of your vehicle’s engine, it is regularly exposed to extreme temperatures and pressures. Accordingly, several different factors may lead to timing belt failure, including:

Excessive belt tension
Foreign debris
Oil leaks
High or low engine temperature
Pulley misalignment

In addition to these factors, perhaps the most common cause of timing belt failure is age. The timing belt is not designed to last indefinitely, and experts recommend replacing the belt every 100,000 miles. Although this is not guaranteed to prevent timing belt failure, it will greatly reduce your chances of having to deal with timing belt issues.

Identifying Timing Belt Problems

If your Audi’s timing belt does begin to malfunction, it is vital that you identify and fix the problem as soon as possible. Fortunately, because the timing belt is so central to your vehicle’s functioning, timing belt failure usually comes with several symptoms that are difficult to miss.

Noise: One of the most common symptoms of timing belt failure is engine noise. If your vehicle’s timing belt has begun to break down, then the engine will likely produce a rough rattling sound every time it runs. This will usually be most noticeable when the vehicle starts up.
Reduced Performance: In addition to unusual sounds, another common symptom of timing belt problems is reduced engine performance. As previously mentioned, timing belt failure often knocks the camshaft and the crankshaft out of sync. If this happens to your vehicle, the engine’s combustion process will become much less efficient, leading to engine misfires and decreased fuel mileage. Thus, if you notice either of these symptoms, you should have your vehicle’s timing belt examined as soon as possible.
Metal Shavings: A third potential symptom of a timing belt malfunction is metal shavings in your vehicle’s oil. If your Audi’s timing chain is beginning to wear down, small metal chips may break off of it and fall into the oil pan Not only does this indicate serious problems with the timing belt, but it can also cause significant damage to other parts of the engine, as contaminated oil can cause a wide variety of problems. If you find metal shavings in your vehicle’s oil, you will need to take your Audi to a licensed mechanic.
No-Start Condition: Finally, the ultimate symptom of timing belt problems is failure of the engine to start. If the timing belt has lost several teeth or snapped entirely, you may be completely unable to start your vehicle, as the camshaft and the crankshaft will be out of sync. In this instance, you may notice a slapping sound coming from the engine, as the loose belt moves freely around the area. The best way to handle this scenario is by having your vehicle towed to an auto repair shop, where a professional technician will be able to solve the problem safely and efficiently.

Carotech Automotive: Your Audi Experts

Whether your Audi’s timing belt is completely loose or just due for a check-up, Carotech Automotive is here to help. For over 50 years, our ASE certified technicians have provided excellent service to customers located throughout Los Angeles, CA. We are the area’s go-to shop for European auto repair and maintenance, and we would love to help you keep your vehicle in the best condition possible, so give us a call or stop by the shop today.

Where Can You Fix Your Audi’s Erratic Lights In Los Angeles?

Posted on March 29, 2022 by Gary Kasbarian - Audi Repair

Audis can develop problems with their lightning system. One such problem includes erratic lights, which have led to many road accidents and even major car malfunctions. Despite their reputation for luxury, high performance, and longevity, Audi owners can run into this problem as their car ages or if there is an electrical issue.

Recognizing Erratic Lights

Erratic lights can take the form of flickering lights on the dashboard and other parts of the car. When any of your Audi’s lights begin to pulse, flicker, stay on, or turn off unbidden, it is considered to be erratic lighting.

These flickering lights could be the way your Audi is telling you it needs servicing, since this could mean it has electrical problems or sometimes even bigger issues that could eventually cost you much more than you planned.

Below are few reasons why your Audi might be experiencing erratic lights:

Car Starter Issues: The car starter is one of the most important parts of the car. It’s what turns on the engine to allow it to move. When the starter begins to malfunction due to age, it can lead to erratic lights in your car. This might be hard to diagnose, but after a proper check-up by professionals, the issue would be rectified.
The Alternator: The alternator’s function is to provide the car with electric needs. It sends all the electrical currents to the devices in the vehicle to keep it moving with the help of the battery. When the alternator begins to malfunction, it usually shows up in the form of problems starting the car and dim headlights or dashboard malfunctions.
Misplaced or Wrongly Screwed Bulbs: Just like a normal bulb used in your home, if the bulb in your Audi is wrongly screwed in, it wouldn’t work properly. It might eventually burn out or the fuse will blow if the issue isn’t rectified.
Additional Issues with the Electrical System: The fundamental operations of your Audi are made possible by electricity. As a result, electrical system problems such as defective wiring, a faulty connection between the car’s battery and a bulb, and malfunctioning fuses can all cause your Audi’s lights to become erratic.

Easy-to-Spot Warning Signs

Although certain vehicle faults are more difficult to detect, issues with your Audi’s lighting are fairly obvious because they are among the most prominent features of any vehicle.

Interior Lights: When your Audi’s interior lights fail, they may flash, which is normally due to faulty wiring. If the lights on the dashboards are flickering or flashing at odd times, it could be a sign of an electrical problem. Nevertheless, it’s vital to keep in mind that, in cases of interior erratic lights, something completely unrelated to the car’s electric system may be the source of the problem. Also, if the lighting on your Audi’s dashboard is entirely gone, it must be replaced as a unit.
Headlights: When we talk about your Audi’s exterior lighting, we could be talking about one of three areas: low beams, tail lights, or headlights. If your Audi’s headlights are flickering, it doesn’t mean there’s absolutely a problem with the bulb or that changing it will fix the problem. The most common cause of a flickering headlight is a bad connection between the bulb and the battery. This is usually a simple and inexpensive remedy.
Tail lights: If your tail lights are blinking, flickering, or simply don’t turn off, it’s likely that your Audi’s brake switch is damaged and needs replacement.
Daytime Lamps: Your daytime running lights may flicker or flash if they aren’t functioning correctly. Because there are various probable causes, diagnosing the underlying issue may take a bit more time. A blown fuse, defective wiring, or a burned-out bulb are the most prevalent. Melted wiring in your Audi could be the cause in more serious circumstances.

Carotech Automotive For Your Audi

Do your lights flicker, pulsate, or refuse to turn off? Issues like this may appear to be minor annoyances at first, but they should be addressed as quickly as possible to prevent further damage. If you detect issues with any of the areas listed above, don’t wait to schedule an appointment with Carotech Automotive. We are easily accessible to many areas in Los Angeles, California. Stop by today or call us to easily diagnose and repair the problem.

Where to Go in Los Angeles to Fix Check Engine Light Issues in Your Audi

Posted on January 3, 2022 by Gary Kasbarian - Audi Repair

There are many reasons why the check engine light in your vehicle could come on, some more serious than others, but no matter what the reason is, an experienced Audi specialist will be able to help you diagnose and fix the problems that are causing the light to turn on. Today, we’ll be talking about some of the most common reasons why the check engine light comes on in a car and where you can go to get the issue resolved.

Why Your Audi’s Check Engine Light Is Turning On

When your Audi’s check engine light comes on, a mechanic will be able to use specialized technology to read the codes behind the light and figure out what’s wrong. There are some frequently experienced reasons why it might happen that you should know about:

A loose or missing gas cap. This is one of the most common reasons for a check engine light, and luckily, it’s also usually a pretty simple solution. A lot of people might forget to replace the gas cap when filling up their cars, which in many cases, can cause the check engine light to come on. You may not realize it, but a loose or missing gas cap can lower fuel efficiency significantly since it allows fuel fumes to escape. Just make sure you always replace the gas cap.
Catalytic converter problems. Your Audi’s catalytic converter is the component that turns the harmful gases that your car produces into benign ones. It’s there to cut down on your vehicle’s environmental impact a little bit, and without it, your car cannot pass emissions tests. If this is the issue, you’ll need to take your car in to get it fixed.
Oxygen sensor issues. Your Audi’s engine needs to maintain a careful balance of fuel and oxygen inside it to function at its best. The oxygen sensor, as its name suggests, detects the amount of oxygen inside the engine and lets the engine know if it needs more or less fuel to keep the ratios balanced. If the sensors don’t work, your car’s fuel efficiency will go down, and if left unfixed for too long, you can run into even more serious issues later on.
Bad spark plugs. The spark plugs are what allows your car to start. They provide the spark that ignites the engine and starts the combustion Symptoms of malfunctioning spark plugs include difficulty in starting the car, engine misfiring, and rough idling, so if your check engine light comes on and you’re also experiencing one of those symptoms, there’s a chance it’s the spark plugs.
Mass Airflow Sensor Malfunction. The Mass Airflow Sensor, or the MAF Sensor, is there to determine how much air is entering the engine. This helps with the regulation of airflow and the balancing of air and fuel in the engine. Naturally, if the MAF sensor stops working, your Audi will begin to have lower fuel efficiency. It could eventually lead to more serious engine problems as well.
Faulty ignition coil. The ignition coil is another essential part of your Audi’s engine that helps start the car. If it’s broken or not working for some reason, you might experience some similar symptoms to the ones you see from bad spark plugs.

How to Fix Your Check Engine Light

As we’ve discussed, there are many reasons why your check engine light might come on. The reasons I listed earlier are only some of them. The best way to figure out exactly what is causing the light to come on is to take your vehicle to a professional mechanic, especially one who is experienced with and knowledgeable about Audi vehicles.

Whether your Audi has engine problems, some other issue, or it just needs routine maintenance, the best place to go is Carotech Automotive and Tires in Los Angeles, California. Our highly skilled mechanics have a well-rounded understanding of many different automobile brands, including domestic, Asian, and European brands like Audi. If you’d like to learn more about our services or schedule an appointment, feel free to give us a call. We’d love to get to know you!

3 Main Reasons for an Illuminated Check Engine Light In Your Audi

Posted on October 10, 2021 by Gary Kasbarian - Audi Repair

You may have bought your Audi because you love high quality, luxury, and performance, but sometimes cars have issues. The way you often find out is when the dreaded check engine light illuminates on the dashboard. The Check Engine Light (CEL) is never something that should be ignored. This light means the Onboard Diagnostic System (OBD-II) detects a problem in the ignition, fuel, emissions, and/or exhaust system.

In the United States, OBD-II was made mandatory for all cars starting in 1996, so if your car is from the year 1996 or later (up to present day), that is the system you have. The CEL’s code can be extracted with an OBD-II scanner, which automotive service centers will have. The codes inform you of the general problem but often cannot pinpoint the exact issue(s), meaning diagnostic work is usually still required.

The CEL is often a source of distress and fear of massive repair bills. To minimize the chances of an expensive cost to you, it is best to get your Audi inspected as soon as possible. Driving with the CEL on and ignoring it might lead to further damage, depending on what is wrong. Let’s look at the 3 primary reasons you might get a check-engine light in your Audi.

Three Causes of Check Engine Light Illumination

1. Spark plugs

Worn or damaged spark plugs can cause illumination of your engine light. Spark plugs are part of the ignition system, their job is to ignite the air/fuel mixture in the combustion chamber of your vehicle. There is one spark plug for every cylinder in your Audi. Problems with spark plugs can also lead to the engine running rough, losing power, as it will not accelerate as easily or as well as it used to, or it could even misfire. This is due to incomplete/absent combustion in one or cylinders.

2. Catalytic converter

This is part of your Audi’s emissions system and helps reduce the amount of harmful pollutants produced while you drive your car. A catalyst within the catalytic converter serves to convert certain harmful gases into ones that are less harmful to the environment. If the catalytic converter is not working right or fails, your Audi will let more harmful gases into the environment than normal.

If you have to have an emissions test, you will most likely fail it. States have different requirements and regulations concerning emissions testing, so it is best to research your state’s rules to learn more. However, it is important to remember that while your Audi will still run without catalytic converters, is it illegal to remove them due to the hazards imposed on others and the environment by doing so. In other words, if the catalytic converter fails, repair and/or replacement is advised over removal of them entirely.

3. Oxygen sensor

These sensors are another part of the emissions system, and while the number of sensors varies by make and model, there is usually at least one in front of the catalytic converter and another in the exhaust manifold. The purpose is to monitor the oxygen levels in the exhaust gases. This is done so too little or too much oxygen can be detected and the vehicle can correct for this. There is an optimal oxygen-to-gasoline ratio, and thus, the level of oxygen tells the car’s computer whether the engine is running lean, with too little fuel, or rich, with too much fuel.

If these fail, the vehicle cannot accurately monitor whether the air to fuel ratio is optimal, leading to poor engine performance as well as a likely increase in harmful emissions.

Carotech Automotive for Your Audi’s Service Needs

In business for over 50 years, and AAA approved, Carotech Automotive in Los Angeles, California is a premier destination for your car’s service, inspection, and maintenance needs. Our work comes with a 24-month/24,000-mile warranty. You can be confident we will provide you with a professional diagnostic inspection of your Audi thoroughly so we can get you back on the road quickly and affordably.

We are located at 8687 W. Pico Blvd, Los Angeles CA 90035. Call (424) 283-4303 to schedule an appointment, or use our easy online form. Our hours are Monday through Friday 8:00AM to 5:30PM. We look forward to earning your repeat business.

Indicators of a Camshaft Tensioner Leak in an Audi by the Specialist of Los Angeles

Posted on August 6, 2021 by Gary Kasbarian - Audi Repair

When driving an Audi, or any car for that matter, it is in your best interest to keep all the essential parts operating smoothly. A part that is important to the performance of your Audi is the camshaft tensioner.

The camshaft tensioner is responsible for keeping an appropriate amount of tension on your car’s timing belt. The timing belt regulates the opening and closing of the engine valves through synchronizing the camshaft and crankshaft rotations.

In an Audi, the camshaft tensioner uses pressurized hydraulic oil for the timing belt’s functionality. A leak here can result in malfunctions and even complete engine failure.

A leaking camshaft tensioner can lead to more engine problems and can even compromise your safety. You wouldn’t want your Audi to suffer further problems, so it is a good idea to keep an eye out for tell-tale signs of problems. If you notice symptoms of a camshaft tensioner leak, you should bring it to our Audi-certified technicians so we can make repairs for you.

Watch For These Indications

A camshaft tensioner leak will appear as a typical oil leak, since the function of the camshaft tensioner is to regulate the timing belt. Failure of the camshaft tensioner will affect the timing belt as well.

Unusual Clicking or Grinding Noises: If you hear a loud grinding, ticking, or clicking noises, these are signs that the timing belt’s tension has been compromised. Since the timing belt is responsible for the movement of the engine’s pistons, this can also compromise your safety and can lead to an accident.
Check-Engine Light is On: The performance of the engine will rely on the timing belt and camshaft tensioner, among other things. Since both of these are central to its performance, failure in any of these will result in the engine line turning on.
Engine Doesn’t Start: An inappropriate amount of tension on the timing belt will lead to it being stretched, and as time passes, it increases the chance of it snapping. A snapped timing belt will increase the difficulty in repairing your vehicle with the added problem of not being able to bring your vehicle to the repair shop.
Accelerated Aging of the Timing Belt: To check the timing belt, you would need to open the hood of your car. However, the timing belt will naturally accumulate wear and tear over time with oil leaking from the camshaft tensioner. The timing belt will fray faster than it would without the oil leaking onto it.
Problems with Accelerating: If you notice your vehicle hesitating to accelerate, it could result from the timing belt being damaged and slipping due to improper tension.
Other Issues: Since the camshaft tensioner has a hand in governing other features, problems with your AC and battery can also be caused by a leaking camshaft tensioner.

How to Prevent a Camshaft Tensioner Leak

The best way to prevent a leak from happening is to get your vehicle regularly examined to catch the problem before it gets even worse. A simple inspection done by our expert mechanics can catch a worn-out timing belt and other loose parts. These can be solved early without it having the chance to pose a risk to your and your vehicle’s safety.

Get it Fixed by the Certified Technicians at Carotech Automotive

A vehicle with a leaking camshaft tensioner will negatively impact your engine’s performance and can even compromise your safety. With those in mind, it’s best that you get your car to a certified repair shop. Our masterful technicians here at Carotech Automotive will diagnose and address the issues plaguing your car and have you safely behind the wheel again.

The owners and technicians at Carotech Automotive have maintained a code of excellence for over 50 years. We have reliably served the people of Los Angeles, CA and have gained their trust through honestly diagnosing and repairing their vehicles.

For any issues affecting your Audi, bring it to Carotech Automotive. We will have our expert technicians tend to your vehicle. Don’t wait for your camshaft tensioner leak to cause more problems. Ensure your and your vehicle’s safety by contacting us and booking an appointment with our master technicians today.

* Audi R8 image credit goes to: DarthArt.

The Best Auto Repair Shop in Los Angeles to Replace a Catalytic Converter in an Audi

Posted on July 5, 2021 by Gary Kasbarian - Audi Repair

The catalytic converter is a critical aspect of the exhaust system in your Audi. Shaped similar to the muffler, the catalytic converter features a ceramic honeycomb that is made up of elements that can clean exhaust gases that would alternatively be expelled from the exhaust system. It’s typical for Audi vehicles to have two to four of these devices.

Catalytic converters function to get rid of toxic gas from your Audi’s exhaust. They are divided into three sections called beds. Each bed performs a certain function to clean the exhaust coming from out of your car.

The first section is the reduction bed. It is covered in rhodium and reduces nitrous oxide gas to its separated form: the elements of oxygen and nitrogen.

The second bed, in the middle of the catalytic converter, is the oxygen storage bed. It is covered in cerium, which functions to maintain the best oxygen levels for use in the last chamber of the converter. It keeps and puts out oxygen that is separated from nitrogen in the first bed.

The last chamber is called the oxidizing bed. It is coated with palladium and platinum. Combustion of any leftover CO2 is completed in this bed. Oxygen is also used in this bed to burn off any remaining hydrocarbons in your Audi’s exhaust gas.

Causes Of Catalytic Converter Failure

There are a couple of typical causes of catalytic converter failure, mostly relating to other parts of the engine, as the part usually doesn’t malfunction by itself. If the engine overheats due to coolant leaks or other problems, the internal parts of the convertor can melt and thus clog the passage of gas. Aside from overheating or a problem with the engine, the only remaining cause of catalytic converter failure is significant damage caused by accidents or other impacts on your Audi.

Causes of Overheating in the Engine

Because overheating is essentially the only reason a catalytic converter can fail, let’s go over some causes of an overheated engine. Catalytic converters overheat and melt if there is an engine problem resulting in too much gas being put into the exhaust system. Typical problems with the engine that can result in this problem are:

fuel injector leaks
spark plug corrosion
air leak in the intake manifold
bad ignition timing or coil
failed oxygen sensor
oil or coolant leaks
fuel pressure regulator leaks

Symptoms of Catalytic Converter Failure

There are a few symptoms to look out for when suspecting that your catalytic converter has failed.

Check engine light: The most apparent symptom of a failed catalytic converter is an illuminated check engine light. Though this can indicate any engine problem, an issue with the catalytic converter is one of the possible options.
Failed emissions test: If your catalytic converter isn’t functioning properly, you will have dangerous exhaust coming from your Audi. This will cause you to fail an emissions test and require an inspection.
Rotten egg smell in the exhaust: If the exhaust system is not working the way that it should, there will sometimes be an odd smell coming from your exhaust pipe due to unregulated gases.
Rattling sound under the car: Sometimes there are broken parts of the honeycomb system that make noise. If you hear a strange rattling sound, it could mean that the honeycomb parts of the catalytic converter are broken.

Carotech Automotive: Your Premier Auto Service Center

Located off of West Pico Boulevard in Los Angeles, California, Carotech Automotive is your area’s premier automotive repair shop. We service any model of Audi along with a variety of other types of vehicles.

At Carotech Automotive, we only use the latest factory-grade tools and equipment. Our team consists of highly-trained mechanics ready to help you get your Audi back up and running as fast and as cost-efficiently as possible.

If you notice any of the above issues with your Audi relating to your catalytic converter or anything else, bring it in to see us. We’ll be more than happy to help you get back on the road quick, with confidence in your Audi. Let us show you why we are the best garage for your Audi’s maintenance and repairs. Call us today.