Renault Spider Exhaust Issue

My 1998 Renault Spider with a gasoline engine is acting up. The check engine light is on, it's running rough, and there's a strong exhaust smell. I checked the exhaust pipe, but it looks fine. Could it be the particulate filter or catalytic converter? Anyone else had this?

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I also have a Renault Spider. Sounds like an exhaust treatment issue. Notice any change in fuel consumption? A bad catalytic converter is possible, but my problem was a defective lambda sensor (oxygen sensor). It messes with the engine's performance and emissions.

Fuel consumption seems normal. How did you diagnose the lambda sensor? Any specific error codes? Was the exhaust leak related, or a separate issue? I know a lambda sensor affects the air/fuel ratio, but I don't see how it'd cause a leak.

The error code pointed to the lambda sensor signal. The exhaust leak was caused by the faulty sensor damaging a gasket near the exhaust manifold, creating a small leak due to the incorrect air/fuel mixture. Get the error codes read and the lambda sensor tested at a trusted workshop. It's the safest way to pinpoint the issue and avoid further damage. Modern cars need specialized tools and knowledge.

Thanks for the advice. I'll take it to a workshop to get the error codes read and the lambda sensor tested. Hopefully, that fixes it. I will post the diagnosis. The repair cost 375€, including the sensor and labor. Thanks again!

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