just bought a car with problems

[Pinky131969]

I have a 2000 chevy prism. i drove fine for a week. then the check engine light came on. the mass air flow was replaced with a brand new one. then, a week later, another code is showing that the car needs a new catalytic converter, because the check engine light came on again. my question is what symptoms are apparent with this problem of needing a new catalytic converter and also will it die on me driving long distances? it should be fixed next week under warranty.

[82Stang]

Hi,

What was the code, the first and second one?

1)codes for these type things, involve alot of different causes
2) cats are pricey, so when you change one, you want to be sure

Symptoms of bad cats include, but not limited to: a rotten egg smell, low engine power, loss of acceleration power, engine overheating or cat getting hot/red hot visibly. If you get a good flow of air out the tail pipe, assuming the exhaust is intact, then that should signify it isn't clogged. Hold your hand over the tailpipe and it should build a little pressure.

[Pinky131969]

thanks for the reply. it turns out, i think i don't need a catalytic converter. it lost two quarts of oil. filled the oil to level suppose to be at, and the check engine light, went off. there are a few oil leaks. thanks for the reply.

[82Stang]

Your welcome.