Causes of Three-Way Catalytic Converter Failure in Engines?
2 Answers
The causes of three-way catalytic converter failure in engines include overheating of the converter and the use of low-quality leaded gasoline. Causes of Failure: The three-way catalytic converter can only withstand temperatures up to approximately 800 degrees Celsius during operation. Exceeding this temperature can lead to internal decomposition and melting, thereby affecting the converter. The use of low-quality leaded gasoline, oil collisions and undercarriage impacts, as well as the indiscriminate use of various additives, can all cause three-way catalytic converter failure. Solutions for Failure: Avoid prolonged idling, as it raises the internal temperature of the engine, which is already higher than usual. Try not to idle for more than 10 minutes. Do not use leaded gasoline or oil additives, and develop good driving habits. While driving, if symptoms such as surging, stalling, or backfiring occur, take them seriously and stop the vehicle immediately for inspection. Otherwise, it may lead to severe damage to the catalytic converter.
Last time my car's catalytic converter failed, causing loud noises and black smoke, costing over 3,000 yuan to fix. The main reasons were: First, engine issues like bad spark plugs or excessive fuel injection, where unburned fuel clogged the converter; Second, oil contamination—my car had an oil leak I didn't fix promptly, speeding up the damage; Third, aggressive driving with frequent hard acceleration overheated and melted the converter; Fourth, natural aging—the car had run 100,000 km and parts were wearing out; Fifth, physical damage from road debris hitting the exhaust system. Now, I regularly check oil and exhaust conditions and get professional maintenance every six months—prevention is cheaper than repairs. Remember these points to avoid wasting money like I did.
