Is it necessary to clean the three-way catalytic converter of the New Transit?
3 Answers
The three-way catalytic converter generally does not need cleaning. The failure rate of the three-way catalytic converter is very low, and cleaning is typically done using a no-disassembly method similar to an IV drip. Usually, the three-way catalytic converter should be inspected and cleaned as needed every 30,000 kilometers. It is advisable to clean the three-way catalytic converter whenever the fuel injectors, throttle, and intake tract are serviced. Additionally, it is best to clean the three-way catalytic converter before the annual vehicle inspection to ensure smooth passage of the emissions test. When fuel quality is poor, sulfur, phosphorus, lead, and manganese-containing anti-knock agents in the fuel can form chemical complexes inside the three-way catalytic converter after combustion. Due to its honeycomb structure, the three-way catalytic converter is prone to clogging. The use of manganese-containing anti-knock agents in fuel, sulfur- and phosphorus-containing antioxidants in lubricants, and traffic congestion can easily lead to poisoning, failure, or clogging of the three-way catalytic converter. As a critical component of automotive exhaust treatment, the three-way catalytic converter significantly reduces pollutants in vehicle emissions, and all exhaust gases must pass through it. If the three-way catalytic converter is damaged or clogged, it is similar to a blocked exhaust pipe, resulting in a noticeable decrease in vehicle power, increased fuel consumption, and severe exhaust pollution.
My experience in car repair tells me that regular cleaning of the Transit's catalytic converter is indeed necessary. This thing is like the engine's filter; over time, carbon buildup can cause blockage, leading to poor exhaust flow, which directly affects power and fuel consumption. I've seen too many car owners wait until the fault light comes on to deal with it, only to find that the cleaning cost turns into a repair bill. It's recommended to check every 40,000 kilometers, and for vehicles frequently driven in the city, even more often. The cleaning cost is just a few hundred bucks, much cheaper than replacing a new converter. The safest way is to have the mechanic check its condition with an endoscope during routine maintenance.
I think cleaning the catalytic converter depends on the situation. My new Transit mainly runs in the suburbs, and in five years with 100,000 kilometers, it's only been cleaned once. If you frequently drive in congested urban areas where the exhaust temperature isn't high enough, carbon buildup is more likely, so regular cleaning is indeed necessary. Also, it's crucial to choose reputable gas stations for refueling, as low-quality gasoline can severely damage the converter. A mechanic friend told me that if the converter is clogged, you'll notice sluggish acceleration and a gradual increase in fuel consumption—that's when it's time to take action.
