How to Determine if the Catalytic Converter is Missing?

[VanMolly]

Methods to determine if the catalytic converter is missing include: 1. Inspect whether the catalytic converter is still present by lifting the vehicle on a lift; 2. Pay attention to the exhaust sound—if the exhaust noise is significantly louder than usual when starting the engine, it is highly likely that the catalytic converter is missing; 3. Judge by smell—the catalyst inside the catalytic converter effectively reduces the odor and particulate matter in vehicle exhaust. If the exhaust smell becomes stronger and is accompanied by black smoke, it indicates the catalytic converter is missing. The catalytic converter transforms harmful gases such as CO and HC in vehicle exhaust into harmless carbon dioxide, water, and nitrogen through oxidation and reduction reactions.