The emission converter is a mandatory component of the emission removal system of a modern car running on gasoline. The component is designed to decompose harmful gases emitted by the engine: nitrogen oxide, carbon monoxide, hydrocarbons, etc. This interaction makes the gases less toxic to the environment and less dangerous to human health.
The car neutralizer serves as a filter that allows you to take care of the state of the environment. Its service life is limited and depends on a combination of factors. It is not recommended to drive a car for a long time with a broken emission filter. Moreover, worn filters can be sold today at https://autocatalystmarket.com/en/products/ford.
When is it time to change?
Towards the end of the allotted service life, the component’s honeycombs burn out, due to which the element cannot cope with its main function in relation to cleaning emissions. Even an inexperienced driver can notice signs of a clogged filter. Such a component must be dismantled in order to install a new original or analog in its place.
It is important to determine in time that there are problems with the converter in order to carry out repairs. For example, if ceramic dust penetrates the engine through the exhaust manifold, this may lead to the failure of the system, as well as damage to the engine, which will be expensive to repair.
If service messages appear on the dashboard of the car, they should not be ignored, since the signals from the sensors require a response from the driver, contacting a special service for diagnostics.
Based on the results of the check, it is possible to say what condition the neutralizer is in at the moment, whether it can be repaired, whether replacement is required. In case of timely requests for help, significant problems with the engine can be avoided, as well as minimize repair costs.
Signs and causes of breakdowns
There are certain signs of a breakdown that should alert the owner:
- the engine does not start the first time;
- noticeably decreased power and dynamics in the operation of the internal combustion engine;
- increased fuel consumption;
- the engine does not function stably;
- an unpleasant and pungent odor appeared;
- when the engine is running, vibration and trembling occur.
In addition to the previously listed reasons for premature failure of the part, there are several more:
- penetration of engine oil into the element;
- malfunction of the ignition system;
- errors in the fuel system.
To change or not to change?
If the old neutralizer has failed, the owner needs to make a decision:
- replace it with a new original device;
- buy one of the analogs;
- completely remove the part and that’s it.
In any case, it is recommended to entrust the work only to professionals who have experience in this area, since this procedure is quite complicated. Since the original spare part is quite expensive, not everyone agrees to buy it, so they prefer to replace it with an analog.
If the neutralizer is completely removed, the master must not only extract it, but also ensure that the engine control unit and air flow meter work correctly, so special dummy sensors are installed.
When removing, the engine power sometimes increases, and fuel consumption decreases slightly. A car owner without a neutralizer may encounter problems when trying to enter such a car in EU countries, where emissions compliance with certain standards is strictly controlled.
The reason to replace the device in a timely manner and sell the worn-out part on Avtokatalyst is the opportunity to sell the vehicle more profitably. If you want to put your car up for sale in the future, replace worn-out parts in a timely manner. Since signs of wear make vehicles cheaper.