Can a car be scrapped without a three-way catalytic converter?

[SanEvelyn]

A car can be scrapped without a three-way catalytic converter. Not installing a three-way catalytic converter does not affect the vehicle itself, but it has a greater impact on the environment and human health. Vehicle scrapping standards: Reaching the service life of various types of motor vehicles, failing to meet the national standards for in-use vehicle safety technical requirements after repair and adjustment, failing to meet national standards for in-use vehicle requirements regarding atmospheric pollutant emissions or noise after repair and adjustment or the adoption of control technologies, or failing to obtain a motor vehicle inspection qualification mark for three consecutive motor vehicle safety technical inspection cycles after the expiration of the inspection validity period. Vehicle scrapping age: The scrapping regulations have removed the stipulation on the service life of non-operational passenger cars, while setting the scrapping mileage limit for private cars at 600,000 kilometers. Vehicles are exempt from inspection for the first 6 years, inspected annually from 6 to 15 years, and inspected twice a year after 15 years. Only vehicles that pass the annual inspection can continue to be driven on the road. Taxis and ride-hailing vehicles are mandatorily scrapped after 8 years.

[SanLucille]

From my experience, a car without a catalytic converter can indeed be rendered unusable, but the key factor lies in regulations and enforcement. In some places like major Chinese cities, annual inspections strictly check the emission system. If the converter is missing and exhaust emissions exceed standards, the inspection station will directly issue a red flag, preventing the car from passing. The vehicle then ends up parked in the garage or forced to be scrapped. Engine performance is also affected: increased fuel consumption, reduced power, and potential long-term carbon buildup from sensor errors. Repairing or replacing a catalytic converter isn't cheap—sometimes costing several thousand yuan—making it more economical to buy a used car instead. In short, don't skimp on the converter to save a few bucks, or you might end up losing more than you gain.

[DelViolet]

My focus is on environmental protection, and a missing catalytic converter is a disaster. This device treats carbon monoxide and nitrogen oxides in exhaust gases. Without it, pollution skyrockets, damaging the air. Regulations like the EU emission standards and China's GB18352 mandate its proper function—fail that, and your car flunks the annual inspection, getting slapped with a non-compliant label, rendering it useless. I've seen a neighbor's car get fined repeatedly for removing the converter, eventually leading to its scrapping. Worse, long-term operation without it can clog the exhaust system, causing engine overheating. Don't overlook the small stuff—fixing the converter keeps you compliant and protects everyone's health. Cutting corners to save money will cost you big in the long run.

[DallasLee]

Car enthusiasts often consider removing the catalytic converter for a speed boost, but honestly, it's too risky. The stinky emissions won't pass annual inspections, and if caught by police during roadside checks, the car might be scrapped directly. The engine warning light stays on constantly, fuel consumption doubles, and it causes long-term damage to the engine. It's more practical to keep the original catalytic converter and add a turbocharger for modifications. I remember my friend's car two years ago—it took ages to repair due to the missing converter, wasting money in vain. It's better to replace the part early and extend the car's lifespan.