What are the consequences of removing the catalytic converter?

[VanVivian]

The catalytic converter in a car is designed to enhance the purification of vehicle exhaust. If removed, it can have the following effects: 1. Increased vehicle emissions: Without the catalytic converter, the exhaust gases cannot be effectively purified, leading to emissions that exceed standards. 2. Reduced power and increased fuel consumption: Removing the catalytic converter may cause blockages, resulting in decreased engine power and higher fuel consumption. Below is an introduction to the catalytic converter: 1. Function: The catalytic converter, installed in the vehicle's exhaust system, is the most important external purification device. It converts harmful gases such as CO, HC, and NOx from vehicle exhaust into harmless carbon dioxide, water, and nitrogen through oxidation and reduction. 2. Hazards of malfunction: If the mixture is too lean, it can cause ignition difficulties, weak driving, engine backfire, etc. If the mixture is too rich, it can increase fuel consumption, incomplete combustion, and severe carbon buildup in the cylinders and spark plugs. In such cases, the engine warning light should illuminate.

[DiColton]

Removing the catalytic converter is truly unwise. It primarily controls exhaust purification, and removing it would lead to significant emissions of harmful gases like nitrogen oxides and carbon dioxide, causing severe environmental damage. In my younger days, I saw a friend do this for performance gains, only to make the air worse. Long-term exposure to such gases can trigger respiratory issues, such as asthma or lung disease. Legally, it's also problematic—many places won't pass emissions tests, risking fines or even a driving ban. From a safety perspective, tampering with the exhaust system could increase fire hazards. My advice? Never touch it—protecting the planet and health comes first.

[StAdaline]

As a long-time car repair enthusiast, I understand the real consequences of removing the catalytic converter. It directly causes the vehicle to fail emission tests, and in areas with mandatory testing, getting a ticket is the least of your worries—your car could be impounded. The safety risks are significant too, as increased exhaust temperatures can lead to leaks or even fires. The slight short-term power boost is an illusion; in the long run, engine sensors malfunction, warning lights come on, and fuel consumption increases. I've seen many in the community try it, only to spend a fortune fixing it later. It's better to keep it from the start. Maintaining the original factory design ensures compliance and safety.

[DeParker]

Removing the catalytic converter might seem like a power boost, but the consequences are severe. The engine system relies on it to regulate exhaust backpressure. Once removed, sensors report faults, warning lights stay on, and power actually drops. I've done this before—right after removal, there was a slight acceleration improvement, but within weeks, noise increased, fuel consumption rose, and there was a pungent odor. Repairs were time-consuming and expensive—not worth the hassle. Simply leaving it in ensures long-term vehicle health.