How to Check if a Car Has a Catalytic Converter?
2 Answers
The safest method is to take the car to a reliable repair shop and use a lift to check if the catalytic converter is still present underneath the chassis. Additionally, if the vehicle lacks a catalytic converter, the exhaust sound will be noticeably louder, and the exhaust gases will emit a very unpleasant odor. Below is some information about catalytic converters: Composition Elements: The catalytic converter contains metals such as platinum, rhodium, and palladium. Element Functions: Platinum, rhodium, and palladium effectively catalyze nitrogen oxides and particulate matter in the exhaust gases. Vehicles equipped with catalytic converters will not produce strong-smelling exhaust. Of course, a strong gasoline odor during cold starts is a normal phenomenon.
I had an experience when repairing my car before. The most direct way to check if a car has a catalytic converter is to lift the car and inspect the undercarriage. The catalytic converter is usually installed in the middle section of the exhaust pipe, shaped like a small box with a heat shield on the outside, making it easily recognizable. If you can reach the undercarriage, follow the exhaust pipe and feel for this hard component—if it's there, the converter is still intact. If you can't see it or feel an empty space, it might have been stolen or the old car might not have had one installed in the first place. This issue is quite common, especially in some used cars, because thieves specifically target them to sell for money. Before checking, make sure the car is safely parked with the handbrake engaged to avoid injury. I noticed that when the catalytic converter is missing, the car's exhaust smells particularly pungent, and the engine noise becomes louder while driving. Get it fixed immediately to avoid fines or air pollution.
