Before buying it is worth checking the catalyst

When evaluating the technical condition of a purchased used car, we often forget to check the performance of the catalytic converter. Meanwhile, there are many unscrupulous sellers offering cars with damaged catalytic converters or no catalytic converters at all.

Sometimes during a test drive, we can see for ourselves that the catalytic converter is damaged. This may be indicated by poor engine power, problems with acceleration, vibration at idle. But such symptoms can also appear on a running engine, due to a clogged catalytic converter. If during the technical inspection of the car it turns out that this equipment is defective, the car will not be allowed to operate.

The catalyst is a vehicle equipment, the condition of which is difficult to diagnose on your own. The device itself is hard to see, it is located under the car, usually hidden behind the body. However, when buying a used car, it's worth taking some time to inspect this part of the car, as it usually ends up being very expensive to repair. The first step may be to check if the catalytic converter is actually installed in the vehicle. However, you must be logged into the channel to do so.

It happens that in some cars a piece of tube is inserted instead of a catalytic converter. You do not need to be an experienced mechanic to see such a "modification" at a glance. Of course, the absence of a catalyst does not exclude the possibility of its subsequent installation, but you will have to take into account the cost, usually from several hundred to more than 5 zł.

Comprehensive diagnostics of the state of the catalyst on your own is impossible, you have to use the help of qualified mechanics. A technical inspection will cost several zlotys, but thanks to the results of a technical inspection, we can save much more.