What Is Catalytic Converter?
The catalytic converter is an exhaust emissions device that uses precious-metal catalysts to convert harmful gases — hydrocarbons, carbon monoxide, and nitrogen oxides — into carbon dioxide, water, and nitrogen.
In plain English
The converter is chemistry at work: hot exhaust passes over catalyst-coated ceramic honeycombs that trigger conversion reactions. It's highly effective when the engine feeds it a correct mixture — and easily damaged when it doesn't.
Engine problems destroy converters: misfires and rich conditions send unburned fuel into the exhaust, which overheats and melts the catalyst. That's why P0420 diagnosis starts with engine health — a new converter bolted to a misfiring engine won't survive.
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