Does a Faulty Three-Way Catalytic Converter Affect the Car?

[EstherLee]

A faulty three-way catalytic converter does affect the car. Malfunctions in the three-way catalytic converter can impact various aspects such as the vehicle's annual inspection, fuel consumption, power, and exhaust emissions. The specific effects are as follows: 1. Excessive exhaust emissions: If the three-way catalytic converter is clogged or fails, harmful gases like CO, HC, and NOx will be directly emitted, resulting in non-compliant exhaust emissions. 2. Increased fuel consumption: A clogged three-way catalytic converter can affect the normal operation of the oxygen sensor, thereby impacting the accuracy of the oxygen sensor signals received by the engine. This leads to imprecise control of fuel injection, air intake, and ignition, naturally increasing fuel consumption. 3. Poor exhaust flow and reduced power: This is more noticeable in turbocharged models. When the three-way catalytic converter is clogged, the exhaust flow is restricted during high-pressure exhaust situations, affecting the air intake and reducing engine power. This results in weaker acceleration and a noticeable lack of power, especially when climbing hills. To compensate for the power loss, drivers often press the accelerator harder, further increasing fuel consumption.