The car catalytic converter is an important component that contributes to environmental protection and reduces the amount of harmful substances emitted by the car. However, over time, the catalytic converter wears out and stops working properly. The question often arises whether the catalytic converter can be cleaned. The answer is yes - it can be cleaned, but only under certain circumstances. Below you will find four h2 subheadings that will help you better understand this topic.

What is a worn-out catalytic converter?

A worn-out catalytic converter is one that has lost its catalytic properties, meaning that it no longer serves its purpose. The reason for this is primarily due to the gradual wear of its core, which consists of platinum, palladium and/or rhodium catalyst. In other words, a worn-out catalytic converter simply no longer works as it should.

Will you clean a worn-out catalytic converter?

Unfortunately, a worn-out catalytic converter cannot be fully cleaned because its core has been permanently damaged. Cleaning a worn catalytic converter may help to gently clean its surface, but it will not remove the problem with its interior. In this case, the only solution is to replace the catalytic converter.

When is the catalytic converter clogged?

Catalytic converter is often confused with a clogged catalytic converter. A catalytic converter is clogged when its surface is blocked by accumulated exhaust residue and other impurities that are not removed during the standard combustion process. In this case, cleaning the catalytic converter can help restore its efficiency.

When should the catalytic converter be replaced?

The catalytic converter in a car with more than 200,000 kilometers may need to be replaced, but sometimes it may be necessary already in cars with less than 100,000 kilometers. It all depends on the quality and longevity of the car and the quality of the catalytic converter. In the case of a worn catalytic converter, the only solution is to replace its core or the entire catalytic converter. In the case of a clogged catalytic converter, cleaning is possible, but only if the catalytic converter has not been damaged.

In summary, catalytic converter cleaning can only help with clogged catalytic converters in diesel cars. In other cases, a worn-out catalytic converter needs to be regenerated by replacing the core. However, when it comes to the DPF, cleaning can be an effective way to extend its life, as long as it is in good working order. However, it is worth remembering that cleaning a catalytic converter or DPF is a complicated process that requires specialized knowledge and equipment. Therefore, if you notice problems with the performance of your catalytic converter or DPF, it is best to contact a professional auto repair shop that is able to accurately assess the condition of these components and offer appropriate solutions. It's also a good idea to perform regular inspections and maintenance on your car to avoid situations where the catalytic converter or DPF will need to be reconditioned or replaced.

An extreme example of wear of the ceramic catalyst insert - it cannot be cleaned J

We won't clean this catalyst either ;-)

Catalyst with a mileage of 80 thousand. km. It looks like new, but it no longer works despite the relatively low mileage and production year of 2018. It can be cleaned indefinitely, nothing will help it except regeneration consisting in replacing the cartridge with a new one.