Can a car pass the emissions test without a catalytic converter?
2 Answers
Without a catalytic converter, the emissions test will definitely not be passed. If the catalytic converter is missing, the engine emission warning light on the instrument panel will illuminate, and the vehicle's exhaust emissions will significantly exceed the legal limits. Driving such a vehicle on the road may result in traffic violations being recorded, leading to fines and other penalties. Additionally, if the vehicle is due for its annual inspection, it will certainly fail the test without a catalytic converter. Components of a catalytic converter: A catalytic converter typically consists of four main parts: the shell, the vibration damping layer, the substrate, and the catalyst coating. Shell: Made of stainless steel to prevent oxidation and flaking, which could clog the substrate. Vibration damping layer: Composed of padding or wire mesh, it serves to seal, insulate, and secure the substrate. To protect the substrate from damage due to vibration or thermal deformation, the padding is made of expanded mica and aluminum silicate fibers, bonded together with adhesive. Substrate: Constructed from honeycomb-shaped ceramic materials, though many are also made of metal (including stainless steel). Catalyst: Composed of precious metals such as platinum, rhodium, and palladium, sprayed onto the substrate to form the purifying agent. Lifespan of a catalytic converter: The lifespan of a catalytic converter generally ranges between 80,000 to 100,000 kilometers. The actual lifespan depends on the vehicle's usage, fuel quality, and driving conditions.
The other day I ran into a fellow car enthusiast whose old car had its catalytic converter stolen, and later failed the emissions test directly. I told him, the catalytic converter is there to process harmful gases in the exhaust, like carbon monoxide and hydrocarbons. Without it, the engine emits a huge amount of pollutants, completely failing to meet the testing standards. I suggested he replace it as soon as possible and not try to cheat the system. The testing station uses professional equipment to measure the values, and if they exceed the limits, you'll either have to redo it or scrap the car, wasting more money. I remember a friend of mine who removed it for modifications to save trouble, only to get stuck during the annual inspection and cause delays. Always check for unusual noises under the car to prevent theft and avoid emissions issues.
