Does replacing the aftermarket catalytic converter have any impact on the car?
2 Answers
Replacing the catalytic converter does not affect the car, but it can have some impact on the engine. Below is an introduction to the relevant content about the catalytic converter: Catalytic Converter: The catalytic converter is the most important external purification device installed in the automobile exhaust system. It converts harmful gases such as CO, HC, and NOx emitted by the vehicle's exhaust into harmless carbon dioxide, water, and nitrogen through oxidation and reduction reactions. Purification Agent: When high-temperature automobile exhaust passes through the purification device, the purification agent in the catalytic converter enhances the activity of the three gases—CO, HC, and NOx—promoting certain oxidation-reduction chemical reactions. Among them, CO oxidizes at high temperatures to form colorless, non-toxic carbon dioxide gas; HC compounds oxidize at high temperatures into water (H2O) and carbon dioxide; and NOx is reduced into nitrogen and oxygen. The three harmful gases are transformed into harmless gases, thereby purifying the automobile exhaust.
I've driven several cars and done a lot of DIY repairs myself. Installing aftermarket catalytic converters does affect the vehicle. First, the quality of aftermarket parts varies greatly—some use cheap materials with poor heat resistance, which can crack and leak over time, causing exhaust flow issues and reduced power output. Second, the emissions system may fail to meet standards, causing the car to fail annual inspections and trigger annoying check engine lights. I once tried installing a cheap one, only to end up with louder engine noise and increased fuel consumption—a decision I deeply regretted. I recommend choosing reputable aftermarket brands with quality certifications, and checking plug and wiring compatibility before installation. If you're unsure, it's better to spend more and get an OEM part installed at a professional shop to avoid constant repairs down the line. Safety first—always inspect the catalytic converter's condition during routine maintenance.
