Since the 1970s, catalytic converters have been a mandated component of vehicle emissions control in the United States, transforming harmful exhaust gases into less dangerous carbon dioxide and water. While crucial for reducing pollution, catalytic converters present several potential hazards that every vehicle owner should understand.
Installed on nearly every passenger vehicle since 1975 due to the Clean Air Act, catalytic converters operate at extremely high temperatures. This intense heat poses burn risks to individuals working on their vehicles. Always allow the exhaust system, particularly the catalytic converter, to cool completely before performing any maintenance. Contact with a hot converter, which can reach temperatures of up to 1800 degrees Fahrenheit, can cause severe and potentially deadly burns.
Beyond personal injury, catalytic converters can also be a fire hazard. Numerous reports from police and fire departments indicate that parking a car with a hot converter over dry leaves or grass can ignite a fire. Even after the engine is turned off, the residual heat can spark a blaze, rapidly engulfing the vehicle. Exercise caution when parking in areas with dry vegetation.
The catalytic converter itself is also susceptible to damage. The extreme temperatures at which it operates can lead to rapid thermal deactivation. Switching to synthetic engine oil is recommended by some experts to minimize phosphorus contamination, a known factor in catalytic converter failure.
Removing a catalytic converter is illegal and subject to substantial fines and penalties. However, these regulations do not apply to pre-1975 vehicles, allowing owners of classic cars to operate without pollution controls. For modern vehicles, proper maintenance and awareness of the risks associated with catalytic converters are essential for safety and environmental responsibility.