Does Burning Engine Oil Affect the Three-Way Catalytic Converter?
2 Answers
Burning engine oil does affect the three-way catalytic converter and can lead to its damage. The three-way catalytic converter is a crucial component in a vehicle, installed in the front section of the exhaust pipe. It reduces the levels of pollutants in the exhaust gases, thereby helping to protect the environment. Both the front and rear of the three-way catalytic converter are equipped with oxygen sensors. The front oxygen sensor is known as the upstream oxygen sensor, while the rear one is called the downstream oxygen sensor. The primary function of the front oxygen sensor is to measure the oxygen content in the exhaust gases, sending this signal back to the ECU, which then adjusts the air-fuel ratio accordingly.
As someone who has been working in auto repair shops for years, I can tell you that burning oil definitely has a major impact on the catalytic converter. When oil doesn't burn completely in the engine, it leaves sticky residues that travel into the exhaust pipe and gradually clog those honeycomb-shaped tiny holes in the converter. This causes the converter to overheat and fail, resulting in poor vehicle emissions, frequent check engine lights, and guaranteed failure in emission tests. The repair is quite troublesome too - replacing a catalytic converter costs at least a couple thousand bucks. I recommend paying regular attention to your engine's condition, checking if piston rings or valve stem seals are worn and leaking oil. Regular oil changes and maintenance can prevent this issue. Don't underestimate this problem - a failed converter might damage the entire exhaust system and send your fuel consumption skyrocketing. The most practical solution is to fix the root cause of oil burning promptly.
