How often should the three-way catalytic converter be cleaned and at what mileage?
2 Answers
It is recommended to perform a non-dismantling cleaning of the three-way catalytic converter every 20,000-30,000 kilometers or once a year. Here is some relevant information about the three-way catalytic converter: 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 by automobile exhaust into harmless carbon dioxide, water, and nitrogen through oxidation and reduction. 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 the three gases 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; NOx is reduced into nitrogen and oxygen, transforming the three harmful gases into harmless ones, thereby purifying the automobile exhaust.
As an ordinary car owner who has been driving for several years, I don't think it's necessary to set a fixed mileage for cleaning the three-way catalytic converter. Generally, it should be checked every 30,000 to 50,000 kilometers. It depends on your driving habits: For example, I often drive short distances in congested urban areas where exhaust builds up quickly, so I insist on cleaning it every 30,000 kilometers; those who drive more on highways can stretch it to 50,000 kilometers. Pay attention to signs like slow acceleration, sudden increase in fuel consumption, or strange smells from the exhaust—these are warning signals. Not cleaning it in time can lead to converter blockage and costly engine repairs. Personally, I regularly go to the repair shop and spend a few hundred yuan to get it done. It keeps the car running smoothly and reduces air pollution, making it both eco-friendly and cost-effective.
