Bump starting a car

My wife's car battery has gone flat an several occasions with the kids leaving the lights on. So far I have managed to start via jump leads - however not today. I have had to bump start the car and wonder (as I have seen mentioned on forums) that I have now damaged the catalytic converter. If I have is it something I can get checked out ? It's just passed it's mot (another long story here - to follow some day) and I wonder if in a year it will fail because of my actions today.

Asked on 10 July 2011 by Sparks16

Answered by Honest John
It's okay now because it passed its MoT emissions test, but bump starting creates fires inside the cat converter that damage the coatings.
Similar questions
I'm the happy owner of a 2013 Toyota Prius. I'm leaving the UK for two months in winter and wonder what actions you recommend I take with leaving the car on the drive? The longest I've left the car unused...
I have some questions for you about the use of jump leads. I have seen an advertisement that states you can plug them into the cigarette lighter socket in your car to start the engine, if your battery...
I have read quite a few forum posts about jump starting modern cars (or not) using jump leads, and the (various) procedures to do it (or not), and am somewhat confused. Some say that using jump leads on...
Related models
Sliding side doors, can carry seven people in comfort, well styled, rearmost seats fold flat into the floor, five-star crash test rating.
 

Ask Honest John

Value my car

Save £75 on Warranty using code HJ75

with MotorEasy

Get a warranty quote

Save 10% on GAP Insurance

Use HJ10 to save on an ALA policy

See offer