Exhaust gas neutralizers begin to effectively perform their function only after reaching a certain operating temperature. A cold neutralizer practically does not clean exhaust gases, so about 80% of harmful emissions occur in the first minutes after starting the engine, until the system has warmed up.
Many car owners think about replacing the neutralizer after several years of operation. If you are faced with this need, you should find out where can i sell a catalytic converter near me on the Autocatalyst website. The service offers to buy out used devices at favorable prices, taking into account the content of precious metals in them.
Why a “cold start” is harmful to the neutralizer
The process of warming up the neutralizer is a crucial moment affecting its durability. Sharp heating of a cold device creates a thermal shock, which over time can lead to cracking of the ceramic base and destruction of the active layer.
Short trips in winter are especially harmful to the neutralizing element, when the system does not have time to warm up to operating temperature. Condensate formed in a cold system reacts with combustion products and forms aggressive compounds that destroy the precious layer of metals platinum, palladium and rhodium.
Correct warm-up procedure
To extend the service life of the neutralizer and increase its efficiency, you should follow certain warm-up rules:
- After a cold start of the engine, let it idle for 2-3 minutes, especially in winter. During this time, the oil will have time to disperse throughout the lubrication system, and the coolant temperature will increase slightly. However, do not overuse long warm-up at idle speed this can lead to the formation of deposits on the valves and spark plugs due to incomplete combustion of fuel.
- Start driving smoothly, without sudden acceleration, gradually increasing the load on the engine. The optimal mode for warming up the neutralizer is driving at a speed of 40-60 km/h at medium engine speed. This mode ensures uniform heating of all elements of the gas cleaning system and prevents local overheating.
Compliance with these simple recommendations will help to significantly extend the service life of the neutralizing device and maintain its efficiency. Proper warming up is especially important for cars operated mainly in the urban cycle with frequent short trips.
Signs of ineffective warming up
You can determine problems with warming up the neutralizer by several indirect signs. If after a short trip in cold weather you notice the smell of hydrogen sulfide (rotten eggs) from the exhaust system, this may indicate incomplete warming up of the neutralizer and ineffective operation of the catalytic layer.
Another sign is increased fuel consumption in the cold season, significantly exceeding normal seasonal changes. The on-board computer of a modern car can show an increase in consumption by 15-20% or more on short trips.
If your neutralizer is no longer subject to restoration, the Avtokatalyst service will help you sell the used device profitably, and the proceeds can be used to purchase a new detail. Remember that timely replacement of the neutralizing element is a concern not only for the condition of your car, but also for the environment.