BC Drivers: Understanding the Catalytic Converter of Ford Vehicles

If you’ve ever heard the term catalytic converter, you may be wondering what it is and why it is important. Luckily, you have discovered an article that will tell you all about it.

A catalytic converter is part of the vehicle’s exhaust system. It is shaped like a canister and is positioned before the muffler. Its one and only job is to reduce harmful emissions that leave the exhaust pipes and go out into the world. It is able to do this thanks to a substance that creates a chemical reaction with the exhaust. Here is a more detailed breakdown:

Dangerous gasses like hydrocarbons, nitric oxide, nitrogen dioxide, and the dreaded carbon monoxide are generated by the inner workings of every conventional gasoline-powered engine. Inside the catalytic converter is a honeycomb structure that is coated with a substance. Platinum, palladium, and rhodium are the precious metals commonly found inside the “cat”. As the toxic gasses make their way through the device, a chemical reaction occurs that transforms them into less harmful substances such as water or carbon dioxide.

The “cat” functions at temperatures higher than 400 degrees for efficiency purposes. However, they also come with a heat shield, or a metal panel, that protects the surrounding mechanisms from the converter’s heat.

Contact Ford Parts BC to replace yours today!