How Many Kilometers Should You Drive Before Replacing the Catalytic Converter?
1 Answers
You need to replace the catalytic converter after driving 10,000 to 20,000 kilometers. Most modern cars come equipped with a catalytic converter, except for some older vehicles produced before the National II emission standards were implemented, which may not have one. Lifespan of the Catalytic Converter: The service life of a catalytic converter typically ranges between 80,000 to 100,000 kilometers. The actual lifespan depends on the vehicle's usage conditions, fuel quality, and driving environment. Components of the Catalytic Converter: A catalytic converter generally consists of four main parts: the shell, damping layer, substrate, and catalyst coating. The shell is made of stainless steel to prevent oxidation and flaking, which could clog the substrate. The damping layer is composed of padding or wire mesh, serving to seal, insulate, and secure the substrate. To protect the substrate from damage caused by vibration or thermal deformation, the padding is made of expanded mica and aluminum silicate fibers, bonded together with adhesive. The substrate is usually made of honeycomb-shaped ceramic material, though some are constructed from metal (including stainless steel). The catalyst consists of precious metals such as platinum, rhodium, and palladium, which are sprayed onto the substrate to form the purifying agent.
