{"id":4639,"date":"2024-02-02T16:41:54","date_gmt":"2024-02-02T16:41:54","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.scuderiacarparts.com\/blog\/?p=4639"},"modified":"2026-05-18T15:57:20","modified_gmt":"2026-05-18T14:57:20","slug":"catalytic-converter-guide","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.scuderiacarparts.com\/blog\/catalytic-converter-guide\/","title":{"rendered":"Catalytic Converter Guide: What Is It And What Does It Do?"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

You\u2019ve likely read about these being stolen from unlucky owners before, but might not know exactly what job the catalytic converter does behind the scenes. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Simply put, cars generate emissions when they\u2019re running and contribute to air pollution. This is a problem for obvious reasons, taking its toll on the environment. The catalytic converter<\/a> is an essential emission control device which allows your vehicle to operate within the environmental laws of local governments. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Omni-present across the spectrum of petrol and diesel cars available, they are as important to a performance vehicle as they are to any domestic car. And unless your ride is fully electric, a component you will always need to consider. A replacement catalytic converter can cost anywhere between \u00a3150 and \u00a3800, and upwards of \u00a31,000 for supercars. The Ferrari F430<\/a> and Lamborghini Aventador<\/a> for example, have some of the most expensive \u2018cats\u2019 on market with variable prices north of $3,000 not uncommon. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

This guide will clue you up with all you need to know, including the reason why they\u2019re such a sought after target for thieves.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

What is a Catalytic Converter? <\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

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A catalytic converter is a device that collects your car’s harmful exhaust gases and converts them into less toxic compounds. The converter then releases the converted gas into the atmosphere. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Manufacturers place catalytic converters as close to the engine as possible, as the device requires a high temperature (400\u00b0C) to work effectively. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Where is a catalytic converter located? They\u2019re usually placed in the exhaust underneath the car, between the muffler and the engine. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Why are Catalytic Converters Important? <\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

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Catalytic converters transform over 90% of your motor\u2019s harmful emissions. Some of these toxic gases include nitrogen oxides, carbon monoxide, and hydrocarbons. The device cleverly converts these problematic compounds into water vapour, nitrogen, and (the less harmful) carbon dioxide. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

The <\/strong>overriding purpose of the catalytic converter is to drastically reduce the damaging effects of carbon emissions and help our cars operate in a more environmentally-friendly way. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

What Does a Catalytic Converter Do?<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

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Catalytic converters work alongside your car\u2019s Powertrain Control Module and other emissions-related devices. The on-board diagnostics (OBDII) then monitors these devices and makes changes according to the operating conditions. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

However, catalytic converters can\u2019t work alone. The device relies on other parts to perform well, including a leak-free exhaust system<\/a>. When actuators or sensors malfunction, it can lead to issues or damage to the catalyst. Inconsistencies between engine cylinders and damaged engine components might also lower a converter\u2019s efficiency.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Components of The Catalytic Converter<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

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The catalytic converter has a stainless steel body that\u2019s made to be durable and last for a long time. Due to the ribbed body, it forms pockets that prevent exhaust gases from directly hitting the cushioning mat. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

The proprietary mix of the washcoat and precious metals rests on the monolithic free-flowing substrate. This structure is the layer where the conversion takes place. The coatings are made to be durable to high temperatures and compatible with the OBDII system. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

The catalyst cushioning mat cushions the substrate. It holds the ceramic catalyst and ensures it aligns well as it accommodates the thermal expansion of the body. Meanwhile, the head shields protect the vehicle\u2019s undercarriage from the heat of the converter\u2019s chemical reactions. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

As the catalytic converter must be able to monitor oxygen levels, the device has O2 sensor ports. They monitor the exhaust gas’s oxygen levels and evaluate the converter\u2019s status. The data they produce then merges with the information from the mass air flow, engine sensors, and MAP, so the PCM can adjust fuel controls.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How Catalytic Converters Work <\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

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As the catalytic converter heats up, exhaust gases pass through the device. The metal catalysts on the converter will separate the molecules in the gas into oxygen and nitrogen. The oxygen then passes through as a non-harmful emission, while the nitrogen will stay within the converter. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

The device then reduces unburned carbon monoxide and hydrocarbons through an oxidising process using the metal catalyst. Not only does it reduce the amount of harmful emissions that your car generates, but it\u2019ll also help your car perform more efficiently. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Signs of a Catalytic Converter Issue<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

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You can judge your catalytic converter\u2019s condition through your car\u2019s performance. You might want to check your vehicle out when you feel like your car\u2019s acceleration is poorer, or your engine feels more sluggish than before. If your catalytic converter is already falling, you\u2019ll notice a sulphur smell coming from your exhaust and dark smoke. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Other damaged parts of your supercar can have a knock-on effect on your converter\u2019s performance. For instance, failed oxygen sensors or misfiring spark original parts can cause your converter to overheat. Contaminants in the fuel or leaded fuel can potentially destroy your catalyst\u2019s important metals. If your engine coolant leaks into the combustion system due to a faulty cylinder head gasket, it can clog the converter. As a general rule of thumb, if you notice any leaks, you must immediately check your car. They can be fatal to the converter and other features.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Aftermarket Catalytic Converters<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

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While it’s important to keep an eye on the health of your original cats, there are aftermarket options available which can provide benefits such as increased power and enhanced sound from the supercar.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

There are two types of aftermarket catalytic converters on the market from brands such as Novitec<\/a>, Capristo<\/a>, Kline Innovation<\/a> and others which can provide benefits to your supercar experience. These are Cat Replacement Pipes<\/a> or ‘De-Cats’ and Sport Cats<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Cat Replacement Pipes:<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

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