Tips Sahabat

Car Catalytic Converter: Function and Signs of Damage

09 April 2025
Catalytic Converter Mobil: Fungsi dan Tanda Kerusakannya

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. 

Read Also: What is a Car Muffler? Its Types and Functions

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. 

Read Also: Understanding and Function of Resonators in Cars

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.

Read Also: Causes of Car Exhaust Oxygen Sensor Damage

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. 

Others Tips Sahabat
Lokasi SIM Keliling di Bandar Lampung
Easy and Fast! Here is the Mobile SIM Location in Bandar Lampung
Mobile SIM services can be utilized by the public to renew their SIM. Usually, these mobile SIM booths are available in every city, including Bandar Lampung. The public can visit this service which is
Cara Perpanjang SIM Online 2025, Ini Syarat & Biayanya!
How to Extend Your SIM Online 2024, Here are the Requirements & Costs!
In this digital era, ease of access and service efficiency have become the main focus in various aspects of life, including the management of important documents such as the Driver's License (SIM). Th
Operasi Patuh Jaya 2025, Menjaga Kesadaran Pengendara Tertib Berlalu Lintas Berlaku
Operation Patuh Jaya 2025, Maintaining Awareness of Drivers for Orderly Traffic Compliance
JAKARTA, JULY 2025, Traffic order on the road becomes the obligation of road users. This includes Daihatsu friends. Moreover, the Indonesian National Police is holding Operation Patuh 2025 in the juri
Jadwal dan Lokasi SIM Keliling Denpasar Terbaru 2025
Schedule and Location of Mobile SIM Denpasar Latest 2025
The driver's license (SIM) needs to be renewed periodically every five years before it expires. If not renewed, your SIM will become invalid and you will be subject to fines while driving. For the peo
© Copyright 2025 PT Astra Daihatsu Motor. All rights reserved
Privacy Policy
Contact Us