The catalytic converter is one of the most important parts of a vehicle. Catalytic converters eliminate toxic substances in the vehicle’s exhaust before they pollute the air.
While car maintenance is important for all of your vehicle’s internal parts, there is a bit of an extra incentive to make sure your catalytic converter is running optimally—it is one of the most expensive parts of your car to replace. Here is some more information about how the catalytic converter works and what car owners can do to keep this critical internal part in working order.
How Does a Catalytic Converter Work?
A catalytic converter is a metal box with two pipes located on the underside of a vehicle. This piece of machinery changes harmful engine emissions into environmentally safe gases such as steam. These gases enter the catalytic converter through an input pipe that is connected directly to the vehicle’s engine. They then pass over a chamber called a catalyst, triggering a chemical reaction that breaks down pollutants. The less harmful gases exit the vehicle through the output pipe, which is connected to the tailpipe.
Be Conscious of the Fuel You Use
Car owners who want to be conscious of their catalytic converter’s health should be mindful of the type of fuel they use. Low-grade leaded fuel can cause lead poisoning and make the converter operate less efficiently. You should always use the recommended or required fuel grade mentioned in your vehicle owner’s manual. This will help protect both the catalytic converter and the engine.
Consider Using Fuel Additives and Lubricants
Cleaning additives can be useful for extending the life of a catalytic converter. When added to the engine, these additives allow the catalyst to operate more efficiently. They can also help the engine perform better. However, it is critical to be mindful of the types of products you use. Only use manufacturer-approved products, as non-approved additives and lubricants can contain components that create harmful byproducts and damage the catalytic converter when they combust.
Watch Out for Exhaust Leaks
Dangerously high exhaust temperatures can cause a catalytic converter to burn out. This happens most often when exhaust leaks upstream in the converter’s pipes, which allows external air to permeate the exhaust system. When this happens, the air-to-fuel ratio becomes diluted, and the excess oxygen raises temperatures to dangerous levels. Defective exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) valves can also cause excessive exhaust temperatures that end up frying the catalytic converter. You can guard against this by regularly checking for exhaust leaks and EGR problems and having them fixed as soon as possible.
You should also regularly check your vehicle’s injector nozzles to make sure that they have not become clogged, as this can present a fire hazard. A clogged nozzle can cause misfiring, which can allow unburnt fuel to reach the converter and burn, damaging the converter or even setting the vehicle on fire.
Be Mindful of Your Driving Habits
The health of a vehicle’s internal parts often depends on how the driver operates the vehicle. Catalytic converters will run most efficiently if you regularly practice certain driving behaviors.
Taking a vehicle on frequent short drives can cause a catalytic converter to prematurely wear down. This is because a catalytic converter works properly once it has reached its full operating temperature, allowing it to efficiently filter harmful compounds. Reaching this temperature normally takes between 10 and 15 minutes. Vehicles that are primarily used for short trips often have trouble cleaning the catalytic converter, which can lead to excessive buildup and clogs. While some drivers don’t have a choice but to take frequent short trips, they should make sure to take regular longer trips to allow the catalytic converter to burn off built-up deposits.
You can also protect the catalytic converter by avoiding driving in deep puddles. Since converters run at high temperatures, the water cools the converter and causes it to contract rapidly. Sometimes, this can break the substrate.
Be Aware of Warning Signs of Catalytic Converter Problems
Be vigilant in watching out for warning signs that something may be wrong with your catalytic converter, as well as all other components of your vehicle. Some of the most common warning signs of a catalytic converter issue include:
- Dark smoke coming from the exhaust system
- An odor of rotten eggs or sulfur coming from the exhaust
- Difficulty with acceleration
- Reduced engine performance
- Excessive heat on the underside of the vehicle
If you notice any of these warning signs, it is imperative to have your vehicle inspected as soon as possible. It is best to have a professional mechanic examine the car to identify the issue and make the necessary repairs.