Why is there an odor inside the car after replacing the three-way catalytic converter?
1 Answers
After installing a new three-way catalytic converter, you may notice a burnt smell. This is because the new catalytic converter has not yet undergone high-temperature heating. It is normal to experience a burnt odor initially after replacement. Once the converter heats up to a certain temperature and undergoes chemical reactions with exhaust gases, the burnt smell will gradually diminish, and you can use it without concern. Composition of the three-way catalytic converter: The three-way catalytic converter typically consists of four main components: the housing, vibration damping layer, substrate, and catalyst coating. Housing: Made of stainless steel to prevent oxidation and flaking, which could lead to substrate blockage. Vibration damping layer: Composed of gaskets or wire mesh pads, it serves to seal, insulate, and secure the substrate. To protect the substrate from damage due to vibration or thermal deformation, the gasket is made of expanded mica and aluminum silicate fibers, bonded with adhesive. Substrate: Constructed from honeycomb-shaped ceramic materials, though many are also made of metal (including stainless steel). Catalyst: Composed of precious metals such as platinum, rhodium, and palladium, sprayed onto the substrate to form the purifying agent. Lifespan of the three-way catalytic converter: The typical lifespan of a three-way catalytic converter ranges between 80,000 to 100,000 kilometers. The actual lifespan depends on the vehicle's usage conditions, fuel quality, and driving environment.
