Catalytic Converter Operation

There is no regularly scheduled maintenance on any catalytic converter. If damaged, the converter must be replaced.

CAUTION: Due to exterior physical similarities of some catalytic converters with pipe assemblies, extreme care should be taken with replacement parts. There are internal converter differences required in some parts of the country (particularly California vehicles).

PURPOSE
The three-way catalytic converter, together with the closed loop air-fuel ratio control (based on the oxygen sensor signal) oxidizes carbon monoxides (CO) and hydrocarbons (HC), and reduces nitrogen oxides (NOx).

When the mixture is controlled at stoichiometric air-fuel ratio, the three-way catalytic converter provides the highest purification against CO, HC, and NOx.