Catalytic converter is part of your car’s exhaust system that converts harmful engine-exhaust pollutants into something less harmful to the environment through a chemical reaction.
The harmful engine pollutants are
1. Hydrocarbons (HC)
2. carbon monoxide (CO)
3. Nitrogen oxides (NOx)
The above pollutants in the exhaust are converted into “less harmful” emission such as Carbon dioxide, nitrogen and water vapor.
WHY THEY STEAL CATALYST CONVERTER
Some technicians steal these stuff at a slightest opportunity because the catalyst is made up of three major metals;
- platinum
- palladium
- rhodium
You will agree with me these are some of the most expensive metals in the world.
These precious metals are sold to make huge amount of money.
The buyers are always available, and can buy it in whole or even shredded.
Without this, your vehicle will be consuming much more fuel than normal, and the sound will change.
HOW DO I KNOW THE STATE OF MY VEHICLE CATALYST?
All you need to do;run a diagnosis check on your car.
The Diagnosis test will determine If the catalyst is still intact or damaged.
Also, if your vehicle has to sleep at the mechanic, be sure to take him and show him the state of your catalyst before you leave.
Then when you return to pick it, reconfirm it again
Some times, they bring down the exhaust, and cut it from the top, where your eyes cannot notice if you only checked from under.
So a proper diagnosis may be necessary if you don’t know how to inspect it.