What Happens If a Car Doesn't Have a Catalytic Converter?
1 Answers
The impact of not installing a catalytic converter on a vehicle includes the following: the engine emission warning light on the combination instrument panel will illuminate, and the vehicle's exhaust emissions will severely exceed standards; when the vehicle reaches the annual inspection period, it may fail to pass the inspection. Here is a detailed introduction to the function of the catalytic converter: The catalytic converter is installed between the engine exhaust manifold and the muffler. It converts harmful gases such as CO, CH, and NOx produced by engine combustion into harmless carbon dioxide, water, and nitrogen through oxidation and reduction reactions within the honeycomb-structured ceramic and precious metals inside the catalytic converter. The catalytic converter can simultaneously transform the three main harmful substances in exhaust gas into harmless substances, hence the name "three-way" (tri-functional) catalytic converter. Maintenance schedule for the catalytic converter: Regular cleaning every 30,000 kilometers: The catalytic converter in the exhaust pipe is not a consumable item. It primarily uses the catalytic effect of precious metals at high temperatures to purify harmful gases in the exhaust. If the exhaust is normal, the catalytic converter does not require maintenance. It is recommended to remove and inspect the catalytic converter after driving 30,000 kilometers to check its condition and perform maintenance if necessary. Maintenance when exhaust is abnormal: 30,000 kilometers is the normal maintenance interval. If there are issues with the exhaust, the first step is to inspect or maintain the catalytic converter. Normal vehicle exhaust should be colorless and odorless. If the exhaust is black or blue, it needs to be addressed and repaired as soon as possible. Black exhaust is caused by incomplete fuel combustion, which usually leads to excessive carbon deposits. Blue exhaust often indicates oil burning, which may cause the catalytic converter to be coated with lead and other components, leading to failure and ineffectiveness. Maintenance before annual inspection: If the vehicle needs to undergo an annual inspection, the catalytic converter should be maintained beforehand. Currently, exhaust emission testing is a critical part of the annual inspection. Many factors affect exhaust emissions, but the catalytic converter and oxygen sensor are the most important factors because they are purification devices and the final checkpoint. If they are faulty, the exhaust will definitely not meet the standards.
