DOES YOUR MAZDA NEED A NEW CATALYTIC CONVERTER?

When your catalytic converter has gone out, you’re going to want to make it a priority to replace the part. Not only is this piece a mandated component of your vehicle, but missing it can cause a reduction in gas mileage and an increase in emissions, which can harm the environment. This list will break down everything you need to know about replacing your converter.

DOES YOUR MAZDA NEED A NEW CATALYTIC CONVERTER?

1. WHAT DOES THIS PART DO?

As the name implies, the purpose of the converter is to convert harmful emissions into ones that won’t damage the atmosphere. Ceramic serves as the base and will be partnered with a catalyst, which is normally a precious metal like rhodium or gold. The component is connected to your exhaust system and is visible from beneath the vehicle.

The exhaust system is everything connected from the engine to the tailpipe, and the converter will be between those two parts. It intakes the gases released from combustion through a filter and the metal portion is then able to react with harmful molecules, stripping them into their elements. These atoms then reform into non-harmful substances, like nitrogen gas or water.

2. WHY IS THERE A CATALYTIC MANDATE?

Having clean air and a protected environment benefits everyone, and since most of us drive, there is a need to manage the emissions we create. The inclusion of this part makes it safer for you and everyone around your vehicle. With this component removed or damaged, your vehicle will release hydrocarbons, carbon monoxide, and nitrogen oxides.

These emissions are toxic for humans to inhale, add smog to our homes by creating ground-level ozone, and can even contribute to the formation of acid rain. If all cars ran without a converter, we would see an increase in lung issues and other respiratory symptoms.

3. HOW CAN A NEW CONVERTER BENEFIT YOUR VEHICLE?

There are a couple of important ways that having a clean, operating converter can benefit your vehicle’s performance. If your vehicle has a converter that is old and clogged, the exhaust system will not be able to achieve proper airflow and fresh air will be unable to enter for combustion, ultimately resulting in less efficient use of gas. This reduction not only means more trips to the pump but also means a reduced capability to accelerate.

Another aspect to consider is the function of the oxygen sensor in your exhaust, which helps to calculate the correct fuel-air ratio for combustion. Without a converter these calculations will be inaccurate, resulting in reduced horsepower on top of everything else listed.

Having a clean and functioning converter benefits both you and your vehicle. If you’re noticing a reduction in gas mileage or sulfur scent from your tailpipe, it may be time for a replacement. Visit Wayne Mazda today to have the part replaced and increase your horsepower and fuel performance.