Why does a damaged catalytic converter emit blue smoke?
2 Answers
A damaged catalytic converter emits blue smoke due to issues with the valve oil seal. Below are the scenarios regarding whether a catalytic converter can be repaired: 1. Damage: If the catalytic converter is damaged, such as being broken or deformed, it cannot be repaired and must be replaced. 2. Clogging: If it is only clogged, its functionality can be restored through cleaning, but severe clogging still requires replacement. Here is additional relevant information: 1. Device: The catalytic converter is the most crucial external purification device installed in a car's exhaust system. 2. Exhaust gases: It converts harmful gases such as CO (carbon monoxide), HC (hydrocarbons), and NOx (nitrogen oxides) emitted from vehicle exhaust into harmless carbon dioxide, water, and nitrogen through oxidation and reduction. 3. Origin: This type of converter can transform three common harmful substances in waste into harmless substances, hence the name 'three-way' (tri-functional) catalytic converter.
I used to drive a heavy-duty truck for several years and encountered issues with the catalytic converter, like blue smoke coming from the exhaust. The blue smoke was quite alarming and usually caused by engine oil burning inside the engine, such as from leaking piston rings or valve stem seals. A damaged catalytic converter isn’t the direct cause of the smoke, but if it’s aged or clogged, it can increase the engine’s workload, making oil burning worse. I remember how my truck’s fuel consumption suddenly spiked, and the exhaust pipe got scorching hot. Ignoring this problem for too long can lead to environmental pollution, reduced vehicle performance, and higher fuel costs. Regular maintenance, timely oil changes, and cleaning the air filter can prevent a lot of trouble.
