A catalytic converter is a technology that converts harmful emissions produced by the engine of your car. The way it does this is through chemical reactions with oxygen in the air and an oxidizing catalyst. This causes the emissions to be harmless. They are most commonly used on cars or trucks that produce high levels of pollution or gas emissions when they run their engines. For people who reside in places with strict pollution laws, you will find them on many various types of vehicles, including motorcycles, boats, and airplanes!
What is the Purpose of a Catalytic Converter?
For starters, the catalytic converter is not meant to enhance the performance of your vehicle. It is actually designed to reduce harmful emissions that are caused by internal combustion engines. This means it will not improve fuel economy.
However, if you have a car with high levels of carbon monoxide or hydrocarbon, you should be able to see an improvement in performance after having this device installed.
How Does a Catalytic Converter Work?
The catalytic converter will work more efficiently if it is kept clean. Over time, the catalyst inside of the converter can become clogged with dirt, ash, and other debris. When this happens, it will not be able to convert as much pollution into harmless gases. This is why it is important to have your car serviced on a regular basis. The mechanic will be able to clean the converter and keep it running at its best!
Do All Cars Have a Catalytic Converter?
No, not all cars have a catalytic converter. If your car was manufactured before 1975, it probably doesn’t have one. In most cases, cars built after 1995 come with a catalytic converter already installed. You can also buy them as an aftermarket product to install on your older car.
Interestingly, modern cars don’t actually need catalytic converters to meet emissions standards. However, they are still required in most states in order to pass inspection.
What are the Benefits of Having a Catalytic Converter?
The benefits of having a catalytic converter include reduced emissions, better fuel economy, and a reduction of harmful gases in the air. Since they are required on many vehicles to pass inspection tests, you will also have an easier time getting your car registered.
Catalytic converters can be expensive when they need to be replaced. They are usually covered by a warranty for at least one year, but after that, you will be responsible for the cost.
There are many different types of catalytic converters on the market today. You can find universal models that will fit most cars, or you can buy one that is specific to your make and model. They come in various designs, so it is important to choose one that will fit correctly.
Some of the top brands include Flowmaster, Magnaflow, and Walker. They all offer high-quality products at reasonable prices. If you’re looking to save money on your next catalytic converter purchase, check out PartsGeek for a variety of options!
What’s the Difference Between Catalytic Converters and Oxygen Sensors?
Catalytic converters are used to reduce harmful pollutants in the exhaust system, while oxygen sensors monitor how much-unburned oxygen is left inside of your engine. They work together as part of a closed-loop feedback mechanism that will adjust fuel levels accordingly. They can help improve gas mileage which means you will spend less money on fuel.
If you’re having problems with your catalytic converter, it is possible to replace just the sensor without having to buy a whole new converter. This can be a more affordable option if your car is still under warranty. Oxygen sensors typically last around 100,000 miles before they need to be replaced.
Different Types of Catalytic Converters
There are three types of catalytic converters: two-way, three-way, and four-way. They all work in different ways to reduce emissions from your car.
1. Two-Way Catalytic Converter
The two-way converter is the most common type. It contains a catalyst that will convert carbon monoxide and hydrocarbons into carbon dioxide and water. This reduces harmful emissions in the atmosphere.
A two-way converter will also reduce NOx levels up to 80%. It can be identified by a single rectangular body with tubes inside of it that are connected together. There is only one oxygen sensor, which means this type of catalytic converter cannot adjust air/fuel ratios.
2. Three-Way Catalytic Converter
The three-way catalytic converter is the most advanced type of converter. It contains a catalyst that will convert carbon monoxide, hydrocarbons, and nitrogen oxides into carbon dioxide, water, and nitrogen gas. This reduces all harmful emissions from your car. A three-way converter will also reduce NOx levels up to 90%. It can be identified by a triangular body with tubes inside of it that are connected together. There are usually two oxygen sensors, which means this type of catalytic converter can adjust air/fuel ratios.
3. Four-Way Catalytic Converter
The four-way catalytic converter is the most advanced type of converter. It contains a catalyst that will convert carbon monoxide, hydrocarbons, nitrogen oxides, and sulfur dioxide into carbon dioxide, water, and nitrogen gas. This reduces all harmful emissions from your car. A four-way converter will also reduce NOx levels up to 95%. It can be identified by a rectangular body with tubes inside of it that are connected together. There are usually two oxygen sensors, which means this type of catalytic converter can adjust air/fuel ratios.
Final Thoughts
A catalytic converter is a device that uses a catalyst to convert harmful pollutants in the exhaust system into less harmful emissions. There are three types of catalytic converters- a two-way, three-way, and four-way- each of which works differently to reduce emissions from your car. If you have problems with your catalytic converter, it might be time to replace just the oxygen sensor without having to buy a whole new converter. Overall, using a catalytic converter provides a lot of benefits to your vehicle; that is why it is best to take advantage of this technology.