Does the Three-Way Catalytic Converter Affect Fuel Consumption?
2 Answers
The three-way catalytic converter affects fuel consumption. Below is an introduction to the three-way catalytic converter: 1. Function: The three-way 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 from automobile exhaust into harmless carbon dioxide, water, and nitrogen through oxidation and reduction. 2. Working Principle: When high-temperature automobile exhaust passes through the purification device, the purifying agent in the three-way catalytic converter enhances the activity of CO, HC, and NOx, promoting certain oxidation-reduction chemical reactions. Among them, CO is oxidized into colorless and non-toxic carbon dioxide gas at high temperatures; HC compounds are oxidized into water (H2O) and carbon dioxide at high temperatures; and NOx is reduced into nitrogen and oxygen. The three harmful gases are transformed into harmless gases, thereby purifying the automobile exhaust.
Having driven on the road for nearly 30 years, my experience tells me that the catalytic converter can indeed affect fuel consumption, especially when it malfunctions. Looking back, there was a time when my old car suddenly consumed almost 15% more fuel, felt sluggish, and upon inspection at the repair shop, the converter was severely clogged. The restricted exhaust flow forced the engine to burn more fuel to operate. Normally, the catalytic converter itself has little impact, as a well-designed exhaust system ensures smooth flow; but once it gets clogged or damaged, the increased exhaust resistance reduces engine efficiency, naturally leading to higher fuel consumption. After cleaning the converter, the fuel consumption immediately returned to normal. This incident reminded me of the importance of regularly checking the emission system—don’t wait until fuel consumption skyrockets to take action, as it not only costs more money but also harms the car. Modern catalytic converters are generally finely made, but aging can pose significant risks—replace them when necessary.
