Where is the car's three-way catalytic converter located?

[SanValeria]

The three-way catalytic converter is located in the first bulge section of the vehicle's exhaust manifold. Below are some key details about the three-way catalytic converter: 1. Its shape resembles two wine bottle bottoms stuck together, with relevant parameters often marked on the surface. 2. It appears bright white with a metallic luster, though prolonged use may cause surface discoloration spots or slight bluish/purple traces. 3. Approximately 20cm in size. It converts HC and CO in exhaust gases into water and CO2 while decomposing NOx into nitrogen and oxygen. The core component consists of a porous ceramic material coated with precious metals like platinum, rhodium, and palladium.

[VanCarmen]

I've been repairing cars for over a decade, and the catalytic converter is always integrated with the exhaust system. Specifically, it's installed between the exhaust manifold and the muffler. This component looks like a metal canister, containing a honeycomb-shaped ceramic substrate coated with precious metal catalysts - platinum, palladium, and rhodium. When engine exhaust gases pass through, these precious metals trigger chemical reactions that convert harmful pollutants like carbon monoxide, hydrocarbons, and nitrogen oxides into water vapor and carbon dioxide. Drivers should always avoid using low-quality gasoline, as iron impurities can clog the converter. When that happens, the engine struggles to breathe, fuel consumption spikes dramatically, and the check engine light comes on.

[VanLeah]

Last time I modified the exhaust system, I specifically researched this thing. It's actually embedded in the header pipe, right next to the engine exhaust manifold. That metal canister gets extremely hot to the touch since it handles exhaust gases over 700 degrees. I remember once a friend's catalytic converter shattered, and the ceramic powder got sucked back into the engine, causing cylinder scoring that cost over ten thousand yuan for a major overhaul. This component is particularly vulnerable to impacts from bottoming out, so off-road vehicles should ideally install underbody protection plates. When replacing the catalytic converter, be careful not to buy counterfeit parts - aftermarket components have purification efficiency reduced by more than half.

[SanLukas]

I've been running an inspection station for ten years, and the catalytic converter is a mandatory check during annual inspections. It's installed in the middle section between the engine compartment and the tailpipe. If the exhaust emissions exceed the standard during the annual inspection, there's an 80% chance the catalytic converter is faulty. Common issues include internal ceramic core breakage, lead poisoning failure, or severe carbon buildup causing blockage. Car owners can perform a self-check: when the engine is cold, shake the catalytic converter to listen for any rattling sound—if there is one, it means the internal core is broken. For older cars with catalytic converter failure, it's recommended to replace the entire unit; cleaning is only effective for minor carbon buildup.

[GabrielaRose]

Newbies often look at the wrong spot when inspecting the undercarriage. The catalytic converter is actually located in the front section of the chassis, connected to the exhaust manifold. If you imagine the entire exhaust system as a sausage, this component would be the sandwiched filling in the second segment. It features a three-layer filtration structure: the first layer captures unburned hydrocarbons, the second decomposes nitrogen oxides, and the third processes carbon monoxide. Last time, the heat shield on my car's converter got chewed through by rats, releasing a sour odor at idle. The dealership charged over 3,000 yuan for an OEM replacement. Remember - never use leaded gasoline, it's poison for catalytic converters.