Do New Cars Need Three-Way Catalytic Cleaner?
2 Answers
Generally, new cars do not require the addition of three-way catalytic cleaner because they usually do not have carbon deposits, so the exhaust pipe will not become clogged. Composition of the Three-Way Catalytic Converter: The three-way catalytic converter typically consists of four parts: the shell, vibration damping layer, substrate, and catalyst coating. Shell: Made of stainless steel to prevent oxidation scale from falling off, which could block the substrate. Vibration Damping Layer: Composed of gaskets or wire mesh pads, it serves to seal, insulate, and secure the substrate. To protect the substrate from damage caused by vibration, thermal deformation, and other factors, the gasket is made of expanded mica and aluminum silicate fibers, bonded together with adhesive. Substrate: Made of 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 the Three-Way Catalytic Converter: The lifespan of a three-way catalytic converter is generally between 80,000 to 100,000 kilometers. The exact lifespan depends on the vehicle's usage conditions, as well as the quality of fuel used and the driving environment.
As a regular user who just bought a new car, I think adding a catalytic converter cleaner is completely unnecessary for a new vehicle. The catalytic converter in a new car is freshly installed and has undergone rigorous factory testing—it's clean inside with no carbon buildup or contaminants to address. Using a cleaner might even backfire—these products contain chemicals that, if misused, could clog the converter's tiny pores or disrupt the exhaust system's normal operation. Having driven for several years, I know many beginners fall into these maintenance myths, always wanting to do extra to protect their new car. But trust me, save your money! Focus instead on regular oil changes, tire checks, and proper driving habits—these are what truly extend a car's lifespan. If unsure, refer to the owner's manual or consult a professional mechanic. Don't mess around with unnecessary additives; they're more of a temporary fix for older or problematic vehicles. With normal maintenance, a new car's catalytic converter will last perfectly fine for years!
