The catalytic converter is a device which converts pollutants in the exhaust gas (produced from the internal combustion engine) into less-toxic chemicals through the catalyzation of a redox reaction. For all vehicles manufactured after 1975, the catalytic converter has become a standard device in the U.S.
During the combustion process, every vehicle releases carbon monoxide, hydrocarbons and nitrogen oxides. The catalytic converter then converts the aforementioned toxins into less harmful substances such as carbon dioxide, nitrogen, oxygen and water.
Despite the tangible environmental benefits brought about by the catalytic converter, the levels of carbon dioxide it produces is still high enough to be a cause for concern, and environmental advocates have suggested that removing the device from one’s car could be the way forward.
Are you a car owner who is thinking about removing the catalytic converter from your car? Let Fast Cash 4 My Car take you through the pros and cons of removing it from your car.
Pro #1: Higher Horsepower
The catalytic converter uses constriction to “purify” the exhaust gases before they are expelled from your vehicle. This in turn causes significant back-pressure on the engine. Without the device, the speed at which the gas is released through the exhaust will increase, hence allowing your engine to perform at its full potential – this is an observation noted by drivers of many models.
Pro #2: More Fuel Options Available
When you have a catalytic converter installed in your vehicle, you are unable to use premium fuel such as leaded fuel, which would damage the materials in it and render your vehicle useless. Without the device, more fuel options will become available to you.
Pro #3: Better Gas Mileage
Considering its constrictive design, removing the catalytic converter means that your vehicle will perform significantly better as it will not have to work as hard to generate the same energy. This means that you will achieve better gas mileage, which also means an improvement in your overall financial health!
Con #1: Noise Pollution
Although one might like the sound of an engine which is not constricted by a catalytic converter, it can be very damaging to your ears. The sound produced by a vehicle without the device can be more than 110 decibels, which exceeds the 85 decibels deemed as the safe to the human ear.
Con #2: Carbon Monoxide Poisoning
As evinced earlier, the catalytic converter converts carbon monoxide into carbon dioxide. By removing it, you expose yourself to the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning, especially if you drive with your windows down, or if there is an exhaust leak. Inhaling too much carbon monoxide not only induces headaches, it can even result in death.
Con #3: Removal of Catalytic Converter is Illegal in Many U.S. States
In August 1986, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) issued several guidelines regulating the removal of catalytic converters from vehicles. On a state level, several states, including California where we operate, have very strict laws which forbid the removal of catalytic converters under most circumstances. A properly functioning catalytic converter cannot be removed, and a replacement is only allowed if the original one has malfunctioned. Hefty fines are issued to drivers whose vehicles are found to be lacking the device.
If you are looking to sell your car and are not sure if your catalytic converter is functioning properly, or if you even have one installed, you can contact us at Fast Cash 4 My Car. We will evaluate your car and give you advice for your next course of action.