Which Cars Have a Three-Way Catalytic Converter?
2 Answers
All cars are equipped with a three-way catalytic converter. The three-way catalytic converter is the most important external purification device installed in a vehicle's exhaust system. Below is some relevant information: 1. Composition: The three-way catalytic converter primarily consists of asbestos fiber felt, purifying agents, a carrier, and metals such as platinum, rhodium, and palladium. Among these, platinum, rhodium, and palladium serve as the main catalysts in the converter, effectively reducing the amount of nitrogen oxides and particulate matter in the exhaust. 2. Function: It converts harmful gases like CO, HC, and NOx emitted from vehicle exhaust into harmless carbon dioxide, water, and nitrogen through oxidation and reduction reactions.
Most modern vehicles are equipped with three-way catalytic converters, whether they are joint-venture brands or domestic models, as long as they run on gasoline. I remember when I first started driving 20 years ago, even the old Santana had one installed. Nowadays, although new energy vehicles don't use engines, the gasoline-powered components in hybrids still have them. This device is primarily designed to treat exhaust emissions, converting harmful gases like carbon monoxide and nitrogen oxides into water and carbon dioxide, making it essential for meeting environmental standards. If your car fails the emissions test during the annual inspection, nine times out of ten, the issue lies with the three-way catalytic converter.
