Catalytic Converter Replacement
What is a catalytic converter?
A catalytic converter converts the harmful exhaust gases produced by the engine into less harmful emissions before they leave the vehicle's exhaust system.
The catalytic converter looks similar to a muffler. It is typically a stainless steel housing with a ceramic honeycomb inside that is full of platinum, palladium and rhodium. These elements help clean up harmful exhaust gases that otherwise would be expelled from the tail pipe.
How does the catalytic converter work?
The catalytic converter has multiple sections, commonly referred to as beds. Each contains specific catalyst elements that work at a temperature of at least 400 degrees F to promote specific chemical reactions. This converts harmful CO, HC, and NOx exhaust gases into less harmful CO2, H2O, and N gases that are released from the vehicle's exhaust pipe.
What are the symptoms related to a bad catalytic converter?
A failing catalytic converter can cause a vehicle to fail emissions tests and turn on the check engine light. The exhaust might have an unusual smell. A restricted catalytic converter can result in a loss of engine power.
» LEARN MORE: How to tell if your catalytic converter is failing
Can I drive with a catalytic converter problem?
If black smoke is coming from the exhaust, you should not drive the vehicle. This would indicate unburned fuel entering the converter, which can damage it.
How often do catalytic converters need to be replaced?
If the engine is running properly, the catalytic converter should last the life of the vehicle. When it fails, it's commonly caused by too much raw fuel entering the converter, often as a result of a misfiring engine. Too much unburned fuel can coat the catalyst, causing the converter to stop working. The converter can also overheat and break apart inside, becoming restricted or plugged.
The catalytic converter is covered by the vehicle's emissions warranty, which extends beyond the manufacturer's factory warranty. Along with other emission control devices, federal law requires manufacturers to replace a defective converter for up to 15 years or 150,000 miles. Because this coverage varies by state and vehicle type, refer to your owner’s manual for your warranty information.
How are catalytic converter issues diagnosed?
It depends on the type of failure. If the car is experiencing a loss of power, a back-pressure test can check for a clog. If the check engine light is on, it may include a code that points to the converter. Or, if rattling noises are heard, the technician would need to confirm they are coming from the converter instead of other exhaust components.
How is a catalytic converter replaced?
Most converters are bolted in place in the exhaust system, though some are welded or clamped down. Whatever the case, the converter must be loosened and removed.
Some catalytic converters are built directly into the exhaust manifold, because they work most efficiently when hot. Never touch a catalytic converter while the engine is running or any time soon after it's been shut off.
RepairPal recommendations for catalytic converter issues
Engine operation should the thoroughly checked after replacing a faulty converter. Failure to do so could result in failure of the new converter.
It's important to use high-quality, OEM parts when replacing the catalytic converter. Using cheaper parts can cause future problems and can prevent a car from passing emissions testing.
What to look out for when dealing with catalytic converter issues
Many vehicles have more than one catalytic converter, so care should be taken to make sure the correct converter is diagnosed or replaced.
Can I replace the catalytic converter myself?
A catalytic converter can either be bolted or welded in place. In most cases, a converter bolted in place can be removed using basic hand tools — just be sure to use penetrating oil before attempting to remove exhaust system components.
If the converter is welded in place, some sort of cutting device will be necessary to remove it. Be sure to check your vehicle to see what you have before attempting this repair. Having the necessary tools on hand before starting will help the job run smoothly. If you don't have the right tools for the job, it's better to let a repair shop handle the job.