Is the Three-Way Catalytic Cleaner Useful?
4 Answers
For mild three-way catalytic converter blockages, the three-way catalytic cleaner is quite effective. Currently, there are three methods for cleaning the automotive three-way catalytic converter: 1. Additive Cleaning: This involves directly adding the cleaner to the fuel tank to mix with the fuel. When the vehicle starts, the cleaner enters the combustion chamber along with the gasoline, burns, and is eventually expelled with the exhaust gases. As it passes through the three-way catalytic converter, it performs the corresponding cleaning. 2. Drip Bottle Cleaning: Also known as no-disassembly cleaning, this method directly injects the cleaner into the engine via a drip bottle, allowing it to enter the combustion chamber with the air and burn. Similar to the additive cleaning method, it cleans the three-way catalytic converter as the exhaust gases pass through. 3. Disassembly Cleaning: This requires completely removing the three-way catalytic converter and soaking it in oxalic acid for cleaning. This method offers the best cleaning results but is cumbersome, time-consuming, and labor-intensive, making many 4S shops and repair shops reluctant to provide disassembly cleaning services.
My car has been running for over a decade, and I've used catalytic converter cleaner several times. I feel this stuff can indeed be useful in certain situations, especially when the car fails emission tests or feels sluggish during acceleration. Adding it to the fuel system and driving at high speeds for a while can help remove carbon deposits and oil buildup inside the converter, making the exhaust cleaner. However, don't expect it to solve major issues—if the ceramic core inside the converter is broken or severely clogged, cleaning won't help, and you'll need to visit a professional shop to replace the part. I recommend using it alongside an engine cleaner for longer-lasting effects. It's not expensive, just a few dozen yuan per bottle, but make sure to buy from reputable brands to avoid counterfeits. Regular maintenance is even more crucial—for example, checking the converter's condition annually and avoiding prolonged low-speed driving that causes carbon buildup, which can extend the car's lifespan. Overall, the cleaner is suitable for minor maintenance, not as a primary solution.
As someone who frequently works on cars, I understand that the principle of catalytic converter cleaner is to chemically dissolve carbon deposits. When the converter is slightly clogged, adding the cleaner can improve exhaust emissions and engine performance, helping the vehicle pass environmental tests. However, the effect is limited. If the converter is already damaged or the fuel system is aging, cleaning may be ineffective. When using it, pay attention to operating under hot engine conditions and combine it with high-speed driving to circulate the solution. I recommend preventive use every 20,000 kilometers, but don't use it as a substitute for professional diagnosis. Also, check if the oxygen sensor is responsive, as it greatly affects catalytic efficiency. Overall, it's a low-cost maintenance tool, but don't rely on it to fix serious problems.
To reduce exhaust pollution while driving, I've tried using a catalytic converter cleaner. It helps remove impurities in the converter, allowing for more complete combustion and reducing harmful emissions, which is environmentally friendly. Cleaning can slightly improve fuel efficiency, but it only works when the catalytic converter isn't severely damaged. I recommend prioritizing engine health maintenance and using high-quality engine oil.
