Contents: Petrol models ↡ Petrol and diesel engines ↡
The catalytic converter is a reliable and simple device with no moving parts and therefore does not require maintenance. However, there are some things that the owner should consider to ensure that the converter operates reliably throughout its service life.
Petrol models
- a) Do not use leaded gasoline in a vehicle equipped with a catalytic converter - the lead will coat the noble metals, reducing their conversion efficiency and eventually destroying the converter.
- b) Always keep the fuel and ignition systems adjusted as recommended (see chapter 1).
- c) If the engine misfires, do not drive the car at all (or at least as little as possible) until the fault is corrected.
- d) Do not push-start or tow the engine - the catalytic converter will become soaked with unburned fuel, which will cause it to overheat when the engine starts.
- d) Do not turn off the ignition at high engine speeds, do not open the throttle valve sharply immediately before turning off.
- e) In some cases, exhaust gases may contain sulfur dioxide (like the smell of rotten eggs). This is a common feature of vehicles equipped with catalytic converters. The smell will go away after the vehicle has been driven a few thousand miles - in the meantime, try changing the brand of gasoline you use.
- g) With good maintenance and proper driving, the catalytic converter should last between 50,000 and 100,000 miles. If the converter's efficiency has decreased, it should be replaced.
Petrol and diesel engines
- a) Do not use any additives to fuel or oil - they may contain substances harmful to the catalytic converter.
- b) Stop using your vehicle if the engine is burning oil, which is indicated by plumes of blue smoke coming from the exhaust pipe.
- c) Remember that the catalytic converter operates at very high temperatures. Therefore, do not park the car after a long drive in dry undergrowth, tall grass or a pile of dry leaves.
- d) Remember that the catalytic converter is fragile. Do not hit it during maintenance or repair.
[Article based on data from the website: MercedesMAN]