Car Catalytic Converter: Function and Signs of Damage

A Catalytic Converter (CC) is a component used to reduce carbon exhaust gas emissions originating from vehicle engines. This component is often referred to as car catalyst and is an environmentally friendly component installed in the car's exhaust system.

Although many are familiar with it, there are still many people who do not understand the actual function of the exhaust catalyst. The following will delve deeper into the functions of the car's catalytic converter along with the signs of its damage.

Functions of the Catalytic Converter

Here are some functions of the catalytic converter, including:

1. Filtering pollutants inside the car

The main function of the catalytic converter is to filter pollutants such as hydrocarbons, nitrogen oxides, carbon monoxide, and others before they are released as exhaust emissions.

All these substances will be filtered by a platinum filter that resembles a honeycomb. As a result, the vehicle's exhaust gases will be more environmentally friendly and cleaner.

2. Reducing the level of vehicle exhaust emissions

As previously explained, the process of filtering pollutants by the exhaust catalyst will make exhaust emissions cleaner.

3. Smoothing the exhaust sound

In addition to addressing exhaust emissions, the exhaust catalyst also functions to smooth the exhaust sound. The metal catalyst will slightly close off part of the exhaust, resulting in a smoother sound without harshness.

4. Fuel efficiency

Another function is that the exhaust catalyst can save fuel because the combustion process in the vehicle's engine is more optimal.

Signs of Catalytic Converter Damage

The catalytic converter is a car component that is quite sensitive and often experiences problems. These issues occur because the car is frequently used on congested roads. It can also be due to the car using low-quality fuel, resulting in suboptimal combustion in the engine.

Dirt from outside can enter the engine's combustion chamber, causing a blockage in the exhaust catalyst. This blockage leads to a decrease in the car's performance. The car may even frequently stall.

Before the catalytic converter fails, the following signs usually appear:

1. Decreased car performance

The first sign of catalytic converter damage can be found while driving the car. This damage significantly affects the car's performance. A damaged exhaust catalyst causes issues with filtering exhaust gas emissions, leading to blockages in the component. As a result, it causes excessive fuel consumption and extra vibrations in the engine.

If this condition is left unaddressed, it will affect the car's performance, especially when the car is going uphill. The car will struggle to climb even when the gas pedal is pressed hard. This indicates a decline in performance compared to when the catalytic converter is functioning properly.

2. Car overheating and sudden shutdown

Unreduced exhaust emissions can cause extra vibrations in the engine. This reduces engine power. The lack of power forces the engine to work harder when driving, especially when going uphill. As a result, the car's engine heats up quickly, leading to overheating and shutdown.

3. Thick smoke from the exhaust accompanied by a foul smell

The last sign you need to know when the exhaust catalyst is damaged is the appearance of thick smoke from the exhaust. Not only that, but a foul smell will also be present. This occurs because exhaust emissions are not reduced and cannot be filtered properly by the exhaust catalyst.

If these signs appear on your car, immediately seek maintenance at the nearest Daihatsu dealer. The installation of a catalytic converter should not be done carelessly as each car has a different type of catalyst. Make sure to have this component installed or replaced with the help of a qualified technician.

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