Q: Vehicle is jerking and engine is not performing at 100%

asked by on October 20, 2016

I'm aware the catalytic converter is clogged (to what degree I am unsure) but as of late the vehicle will jerk periodically or bog down. The battery and alternator are new and I've had everything but the fuel/exhaust system replaced. There is also a light rattling sound coming from the muffler itself.

My car has 215236 miles.
My car has an automatic transmission.

Catalytic Converter Replacement $288.41 - $1959.69 Get a Quote
Fuel Pump Replacement $145.32 - $1299.70 Get a Quote

The catalytic converter may be the cause of all of these symptoms. If there are pieces of the catalytic converter that have broken off inside, they could periodically block the exhaust and cause the engine to bog down. This is likely the sound you are hearing in the muffler. You can knock on the catalytic converter and see if you hear a rattle, but be sure to do this when the car is cool. The fuel system could cause similar issues as well. You can look into inspecting the fuel pump, but the only way to test the pressure is to hook up a gauge inline somewhere. If the fuel lines are clogged, or the fuel pump is failing, you will need to replace the entire fuel module. Contact a certified technician, such as one from YourMechanic, to have your vehicle properly diagnosed so that you know what next steps to take.

The statements expressed above are only for informational purposes and should be independently verified. Please see our terms of service for more details

Get an instant quote for your car

Our certified mechanics come to you ・Backed by 12-month, 12,000-mile guarantee・Fair and transparent pricing


Experienced Mechanic?

Earn up to $70/hr

What others are asking

What are the red and orange lights that show on the dash?
Your car has a number of important dash lights that are used to inform you of potential problems and to deliver other information. These include the following: Seat Belt Reminder Indicator: This light will illuminate if an occupant has not...
Bad squeaking from under hood, could be pulley.
Hi there. This noise can become very annoying, especially if it is very loud. If the noise typically occurs when the engine is first started and then goes away it can be the alternator bearing. If it is a constant...
Key won't unlock car anymore
The latch inside the door is locked and unlocked by a lock actuator. The latch or lock actuator has likely bound up, and will need to be accessed get the door open. If this is the case, the inside door...
Engine sputters
Hi there. They are correct that some of these parts may cause the issue. If the Check Engine Light is coming on, then I would typically scan the computer for codes first. This can give me a good indication of...
My car idles high and bogs down when I hit the gas
Typically a high idle issue is caused by a bad idle control valve (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/idle-control-valve-replacement) or a vacuum leak. When you apply pressure to the throttle and it bogs down, that tends to also be a vacuum issue. Some of the...
4 wheel drive will not engage 2010 Ford F150 4WD
Hello - it sounds like the 4WD-High actuator is not successfully engaging High-range (https://www.yourmechanic.com/question/4wd-not-working-just-making-a-clicking-nose-by-jacob-c) as expected. There are many possible causes, bad servo actuator, transfer gear mis-alignment, transfer shift fork wear. For assistance, I would recommend transfer case inspection (https://www.yourmechanic.com/question/4wd-will-not-engage-by-danielle)...
Could my problem be the key? 2009 Honda Civic
Hi there - this sounds like the security system needs a simple reset, similar to what's needed if you replace the battery. Try this: lock the car using the ignition key in the driver door. Let it sit for 5...
When rpm gauge rise high and go low
Hi There, It sounds like you may have a dirty or failing idle air control valve causing your engine idle to fluctuate and eventually stall. The idle air control valve (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/idle-control-valve-replacement) is a small valve on the engine's intake system...
After oil change - no oil registers on dip stick 2015 ford edge
Hi there. When oil is changed, the filter is removed and less than 2 oz. of residual oil will remain in oil lines and throughout the motor. When it's added and the new filter is not primed (meaning not filled...

Related articles

Can Slamming Car Doors Lead to Rattling Noises in the Door?
Though Though most people seem to believe that car doors require a resounding push, slam, and bang, the reality is that all you need to do is close the door gently for an active latch. That is the way doors...
Symptoms of a Bad or Failing Fuel Pressure Regulator
Common signs include engine performance issues, fuel leaks, and black smoke coming from the exhaust.
How to Replace a Fuel Gauge Sender
The fuel gauge has a sender that goes bad when it says that the fuel level is different lower or higher than it actually is.