If you’re a Toyota Tundra owner, you know how expensive catalytic converter replacements can be. They can cost between $4000 and $7000 at a dealer, or even more if you live in one of the CARB states.
This is why you should take steps to make it as difficult as possible for a thief to steal your catalytic converters. This includes using physical anti-theft shields.
What is the CEL?
The check engine light (CEL) is part of the On-Board Diagnostics system that your Toyota Tundra uses to monitor critical performance systems. It lights up whenever your vehicle’s computer detects a problem.
The CEL can be triggered by anything from an emissions system component to a sensor. It isn’t a foolproof indicator of what’s wrong, however.
To determine the underlying problem, your service technician will use a scanner that connects to your vehicle’s diagnostic port. Then they can look up trouble codes that will tell them what exactly is causing the CEL to illuminate.
You can also manually reset the CEL yourself at home if you have a scanner handy. It’s not a very difficult task and can save you money on repairs!
What is the CEL Code?
The CEL Code is an electronic device that stores diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) in your engine’s control module (ECM). These codes are stored for diagnostic purposes to help diagnose any possible issue that may cause the CEL to illuminate.
This system works by reading the information from your vehicle’s sensors and then storing a DTC in the ECM for further analysis. This process is very important as DTCs can point to problems with your engine’s fuel, ignition, mechanical or electrical components that negatively impact your car’s drivability and overall experience driving.
If a DTC is triggered by something that is not working correctly in your Toyota Tundra, the CEL will light up. This alerts you to the problem and helps our mechanics identify it before it causes any further damage.
The most common problem that will trigger the CEL is a defective catalytic converter. This is a serious matter and should be addressed immediately as it can lead to significant damage to your vehicle.
What is the Cause of the CEL?
There are many reasons why your 2005 toyota tundra may be flashing its goofy little check engine light, but there is one that stands out above the rest. It is the elusive black box in your vehicle’s hood that is the culprit. The aforementioned black box is responsible for handling your vehicles most important safety and security functions, including your cars most critical airbags. You might be surprised to learn that the black box is not only a technological marvel, but also one of the most expensive parts in your vehicles arsenal. The black box is a complex assemblage of sensors and electronics that work together to protect your car from the hazards that befall it on the road.
What is the Solution? – 2005 Toyota Tundra Catalytic Converter
The catalytic converter on unleaded fuel vehicles is a ceramic honeycomb monolith coated with precious metals like Platinum, Rhodium and Palladium that help reduce vehicle emissions. These metals are expensive and catalytic converters cost thousands of dollars to replace.
The best way to prevent your catalytic converter from being stolen is to take steps to protect it. This can be as simple as installing a physical anti-theft shield or as complex as adding an in-vehicle wireless camera system. 2005 Toyota Tundra Catalytic Converter!
Miller CatShields are a great option for your Tundra because they are designed specifically for your vehicle and have tamper proof security bolts on all mounting points. The bolts are recessed into the shield so they can’t be ground off. They also fit perfectly in place and look great. There are several different models to choose from depending on your Tundra model and TRD skid plates. We have installed these on many trucks, and they are a great deterrent.