likely problems concerning catalytic converter light flashing?

Question

vibration chugging especially in second gear

Answer 1

The catalytic converter light flashing indicates a fault or breakdown of the equipment and is very dangerous to both the car and yourself.
Catalytic converters become ineffective in the presence of lead due to catalyst poisoning. Therefore, vehicles equipped with catalytic converters must only be run on unleaded gasoline, and it is this fact, as much as concerns about the possibly harmful effects of lead emissions, which caused the end of pump-available leaded gasoline in countries where catalytic converters have been in common use for many years. Catalyst poisoning occurs when a substance in the engine exhaust coats the surface of the catalyst, preventing further exhaust access to the catalytic materials. Poisoning can sometimes be reversed by running the engine under a very heavy load for an extended period of time to raise exhaust gas temperature, which may cause liquefaction or sublimation of the catalyst poison. Common catalyst poisons are lead, sulfur, zinc, manganese, silicon and phosphorus.

Answer 2

Your car is misfiring, thats why its chugging and the lamp is flashing. Anytime a misfire occurs that can damage the converter, the PCM will flash the light on and off as a warning to you, if you kleep driving it the way it is, it will eventually damage the converter, but right now, you have to find out from a Auto Tech why the car is misfiring, a computer control check should lead him right to the problem.

Answer 3

Likely cause is the lamda sensor in the exhaust has failed or the ceramic core of the cat is blocked possibly due to using leaded petrol.How long have you had car because previous owner could have been using wrong fuel for some time.