Car Car Tips
NOTE: The procedures and suggestions outlined here are generally accepted practices and procedures; and are NOT intended to determine the actual problem or circumstance on any particular vehicle, however Maxi will not be responsible for any damage arising out of reliance on them. They are meant as a general guideline only and any individual problem should be diagnosed by a qualified technician to determine the exact repair that needs to be made. Read the label on any product to assure compliance with your vehicle owners manual and manufacturers specifications.

I'm having trouble starting my vehicle & there is an unusual noise coming from underneath, is it my converter?
Converter may not be the problem. When a customer complains that his or her car has a loss of power, hard starting, noise or sound of air leaking under the vehicle, the usual diagnosis puts the blame on a clogged catalytic converter. Although this may be the case, there are several other mechanical conditions that can present symptoms similar to a restricted exhaust system.

Before replacing any exhaust system part, particularly a catalytic converter, you must establish that the part has indeed failed. While this is easy when the damaged part is visible, it is extremely difficult when the problem is an internal restriction or blockage. If a converter is replaced because of blockage and the cause of the blockage is not determined, the new converter will also become damaged. Although quick checks, using tools such as exhaust system backpressure testers and pyrometers, help to establish the area of blockage, they do not indicate if the cause of the blockage was an engine or tune-up related malfunction. After the catalytic converter is replaced the vehicle's fuel and ignition systems should be checked. If the cause of the converter failure is not repaired, the new converter will fail in a very short amount of time. This condition is not covered under warranty.

So what can I do to extend the life of a converter?
Proper maintenance is extremely important. The best way to keep the converter operating properly and under warranty is to ensure that the vehicle is properly tuned. A properly tuned vehicle is critical for long converter life. Drivers may ruin their converters, and possibly cause other engine damage along with higher emissions being released into the atmosphere if proper maintenance is not performed on a regular basis. See your vehicle owners manual for the proper maintenance procedures and intervals that should be done. Remember to change your air filters when necessary and when you see the "check engine" light come on, get your vehicle to a qualified technician as soon as possible to determine the cause. Your car needs just a little care to help your converter last as long as possible.

Exhaust and Emissions
The exhaust system in your car carries poisonous emissions from the engine to the rear of the vehicle. Any leak along the system can be dangerous to your family, friends, and yourself as you ride inside. This is why exhaust is an item of state inspection in most states. At Maxi, we understand the importance of an exhaust system in good condition, so we provide free exhaust system checks.

Catalytic Converters
A catalytic converter is the most important pollution control device on your vehicle. A vehicle without a catalytic converter or with a malfunctioning unit is harmful to the environment. The converter changes poisonous carbon monoxide into a non-poisonous gas before it goes into the atmosphere. We will check your converter and other emission components at no charge.