What is a catalytic converter?

     From the outside, a catalytic converter looks similar to a muffler, but inside, it is a thermal reactor.  The interior of a catalytic converter contains a ceramic honeycomb structure coated with platinum, rhodium, and palladium.  This honeycomb structure uses your vehicle's gasoline, the oxygen from outside, and the heat produced by your vehicle to correct the exhasut before it leaves your car.

     A catalytic converter is able to reduce hydrocarbons (HC), carbon monoxide (CO), and nitrous oxide (NOx).  Through the thermal reaction occurring inside the converter, these harmful gases are converted into carbon dioxide (CO2), nitrogen, oxygen (O2), and water (H2O), elements found in everyday life.

What are the symptoms of a faulty catalytic converter?

     There are a few different signs your vehicle may have a failing catalytic converter.  First, failing a New Jersey State Motor Vehicle Inspection for emissions, mainly NOx, may be caused by a defective converter.  Poor vehicle performance, increased engine temperature, and bucking or hesitation may also be telltale signs that it may be time to change the catalytic converter on your car.

     Vehicles produced in or after 1996, have an On-Board Diagnostic system (OBD) that was installed to monitor the emissions control devices contained within your vehicle, including the catalytic converter.  Should your Service Engine Soon/Check Engine light illuminate, it is strongly advised you bring your car to a qualified technician to have the problem diagnosed. 

Why are we catalytic converter specialists?

     We are able to fabricate catalytic converter emissions systems that meet both Federal and State Clean Air standards, on-site, for most foreign and domestic vehicles.