Your catalytic converter significantly reduces your engine’s toxic emissions and pollutants. Keeping it in working order means cleaner air and a better running vehicle.

Diagnostic Trouble Codes

One of the most important components of your exhaust system is the catalytic converter. We’ve all heard of it, many of us have had to replace one, but many people have no idea what it does. Put simply, the catalytic converter, commonly called a cat, converts some of the more dangerous substances in your engine exhaust into safer emissions. The process uses a catalyst to initiate a chemical reaction in the combustion emissions. Most models used today are called three-way converters because they convert the three most abundant pollutants into less toxic substances. Carbon Monoxide and excess Hydrocarbons are oxidized to create carbon dioxide and water, and nitrogen oxides undergo a reduction reaction to produce nitrogen.

Don’t ignore the check engine light. Catalytic converter damage, if left unchecked, may warrant replacement, setting you back $1000 dollars or more. At Master AutoTech we encourage early catalytic converter repair and diagnostic. If your catalytic converter is in need of repair we will see one or more of the following codes:

P0420 Catalyst system efficiency below threshold (bank 1)
P0430 Catalyst system efficiency below threshold (bank 2)
P0300 Random/multiple cylinder misfire detected
P0301 Cylinder 1 misfire detected
P0302 Cylinder 2 misfire detected
P0303 Cylinder 3 misfire detected
P0304 Cylinder 4 misfire detected
P0128 Coolant thermostat (coolan temp bleow thermostat regulating temperature)
P0171 System too lean (bank 1)
P0174 System too lean (bank 2)
P0401 Exhaust gas recirculation flow insufficient detected
P0455 Evaporative emission control system leak detected (large leak)

Don’t Delay

When it comes to your catalytic converter, you want to diagnose the problem as soon as possible so you can seek repair. For all things diagnostics and repair, Master AutoTech is your Utah auto care expert.