Will Drilling a Hole in a Catalytic Converter?

Drilling holes in a catalytic converter will cause it to leak. The leak will affect the readings the sensors in the converter take and it will adjust your engine speed and fuel mix to correct the problem, but due to the leak it won't work.

Can I drill holes in my clogged catalytic converter?

Drilling holes on a catalytic converter is never a good idea. By doing so – you allow toxic gases to leak out. At best, this will pollute the environment. ... The toxic gases are odorless and colorless – so you wouldn't even notice them.

What happens if I poke holes in my catalytic converter?

Punching holes in the catalytic converter will make it less likely that your car can pass an emissions test. In states that require emissions testing, it is unwise to alter the converter unless it is a short-term solution to keep the car running until you get the converter replaced.