DfT Issues Warning Over Compliant Catalytic Converters

If you’re currently looking for a catalytic converter supplier to replace car parts, do make sure that your choice of company is above board and ticking all the right boxes, so you know that your vehicle meets European emission standards and complies with the regulations to which it was originally approved.

The Department for Transport (DfT) has just issued a warning to suppliers and manufacturers of these car parts, which are actually the most important part of your car’s emission control system.

If you have a look, you’ll find that you have a device fitted to your vehicle (petrol or diesel), designed to reduce the level of harmful pollutants that come out of the tailpipe as exhaust gases. They do this by allowing chemical reactions to take place within the exhaust that converts harmful pollutants, like hydrocarbons, carbon monoxide and nitrogen oxides, into less harmful products like water and carbon dioxide.

These converters have to pass emissions testing procedures before they can be sold in Europe. Similarly, replacement converters have to pass these strict tests as well so that cars can continue to comply with certain regulations.

Be aware that manufacturers, suppliers and distributors of replacement converters are legally obliged to ensure their products comply with the relevant laws.

As the DfT says: “We are committed to enforcing vehicle safety and environmental standards. The Department for Transport’s Market Surveillance Unit will continue to check that vehicles and components available on the UK market comply with the legislative requirements to which they were approved. Manufacturers, suppliers and distributors who are found to have breached these requirements should expect to be the subject of enforcement action.”

There may well come a time when you do have to replace your converter but you can prolong the life of your current one by always making sure that you use the right fuel in your car. Try not to bump start your vehicle as this will see unburned fuel injected into the converter, which can overheat and melt the monolith.

You can also melt your monolith if you tow something that’s too heavy for your car. Having regular services will enable you to keep on top of any potential issues, as a poorly tuned engine can break the monolith down and stop it working properly.

Being a careful driver is also a must (as it should be, regardless!), so take care when going over speed bumps or very bumpy roads. You can damage the cat if you ground your exhaust system so go slow and take your time.

If you’d like to find out anything else about converters and why they’re important, or if you want to have a replacement one fitted to your car, get in touch with the team at Catman today. We can supply and deliver nearly all the top brands and offer a high quality, efficient and speedy service that’s also great value for money.