What Does a Catalytic Converter Do?

What is a catalytic converter and what does it do? Do electric cars have catalytic converters? Do all cars have catalytic converters? The catalytic converter is an essential part of your vehicle’s exhaust system. Not only does it play a big role in the performance of your car, but it also has a big impact on the environment. Get answers to the question, “What does a catalytic converter do?” with help from Temecula Valley Toyota, and be sure to visit us in Temecula for all of your automotive needs.

Why Do I Need a Catalytic Converter?

While great strides have been made in the automotive industry, vehicles were not always as eco-conscious as they are today. In 1965, an amendment was added to the Clean Air Act called the National Emissions Standards Act. This proclaimed that all registered cars must be tested for emission levels in order to reduce pollution. At this time the catalytic converter was introduced to help vehicles reach the standards set by the National Emissions Standards Act.

What is the Catalytic Converter?

So, what is a catalytic converter and how does it help to keep emissions down in Murrieta? The catalytic converter is a metal chamber that converts harmful exhaust compounds into safer compounds. Here is a brief overview:

• Exhaust gasses enter the input pipe of the catalytic converter.
• These gasses pass over the catalyst, which triggers a chemical reaction.
• The chemical reaction, known as a “a redox reaction”, separates the molecules of the gasses.
• The transformed gasses are released from the output pipe as steam and other simple compounds.

What are the Signs of a Bad Catalytic Converter?

Like any component, your catalytic converter can run into problems here and there on the Lake Elsinore roads. Luckily, there are telltale warning signs to let you know when it’s time to schedule a service.

• Your car doesn’t accelerate quickly and feels sluggish.
• Your exhaust smoke is darker or even black.
• Heat is coming from underneath the car.
• You can smell a sulfuric or rotten egg odor inside the car.

Due to the rising number of catalytic converter thefts, we recommend visiting our service center if you suspect that your equipment has been stolen or damaged.

Do Electric Cars Have Catalytic Converters?

Some common questions we get asked are, “Do electric cars have catalytic converters?”, and “Do all cars have catalytic converters?” Electric cars do not have catalytic converters because they don’t emit any exhaust. A catalytic converter is meant to take toxins in the engine and transfer them into a less harmful substance. Electric cars don’t require catalytic converters, because they run solely on electricity.

Get Quality Service at Temecula Valley Toyota

Whether you need an inspection in Menifee or a little car advice in Temecula, allow us to help at Temecula Valley Toyota. Contact us for more information about any automotive concerns, and feel free to schedule your service appointment at our shop today.