The catalytic converter (also called a catalytic converter or catalytic converter) is a component of the exhaust system and is intended to convert exhaust gases that are harmful to health and the environment into non-toxic substances. But how do you recognize a defective catalytic converter and how much does it cost to replace it?
Signs of a defective catalytic converter:
The catalyst helps protect the environment. However, if this component is defective, the opposite happens and the exhaust gas values increase. The driver cannot register the increased emissions. However, some symptoms indicate that something is wrong.
Frequent signs of a defective catalytic converter are rattling noises, irregular running of the engine, unusual exhaust gas odour, limited performance above a certain speed or loss of performance. If the engine control lamp (MKL) comes on, this could also be an indication. In modern vehicles, however, the function of the catalytic converter is constantly monitored by lambda sensors. If there is a defect in the catalytic converter, a control lamp indicates this.
How can I clean the particulate filter myself?
If your particulate filter is clogged and you, therefore, visit a workshop with your diesel, it is often recommended that you replace the filter. However, replacing a DPF is very costly (depending on the model, USD 600 to USD 2500). For this reason, cleaning the particle filter makes sense in certain cases.
We will now explain to you how you can clean your particle filter yourself!
Let the exhaust system cool down completely
Before cleaning, let your vehicle stand for at least an hour to allow the exhaust system to cool down completely. This will avoid stress cracks when the cold agent is injected.
Free the soot particle filter
In order to be able to fill the cleaning agent into the filter, you first have to free it from other car parts that may be blocking the DPF.
Also, remove any sensors that are attached.
Insert the hose on the container into the opening
Next, insert the small hose of detergent through one of the holes in the particle filter.
Fill in detergent
Follow the manufacturer’s instructions exactly for this step.
- Before you add the detergent, you should shake the can well.
- Spray the agent into the filter every 5-10 seconds for 5 seconds.
- As you spray, rotate the probe so the detergent goes everywhere.
- Repeat the process until the can is completely empty.
Screw in the sensors again
Next, the sensors that you previously unscrewed have to be reinstalled.
- Reset learning values so that the probes no longer think that the soot filter is full
- As soon as everything is back in its place, you can use a diagnostic device to reset the learning values.
- If you don’t, the onboard computer continues to think that the DPF is clogged.
- You may also have to start the regeneration manually.
Perform regeneration and test drive
Finally, leave your car outside for 15 minutes with the engine running.
Then it’s best to drive again for about half an hour at high speed on the motorway to burn out the filter.
This product causes a quick restoration of the catalytic converter function and immediately reduces pollutant emissions.
Catalytic Cleaner cleans the entire fuel system and prevents the catalyst from becoming dirty. In contrast to most other products, JLM Petrol Catalytic Converter Cleaner contains a combustion improver that directly improves combustion in the engine (even before the cleaner has an effect on the fuel system).
This immediately results in a reduction in pollutant emissions. This makes it easier for a vehicle to pass the emissions test and the customer is back on the road earlier. JLM Petrol Catalytic Converter Cleaner is an extremely concentrated cleaning agent that removes carbon deposits and dirt in the catalytic converter and counteracts new deposits.
By cleaning the fuel system, valves, pistons and injectors, combustion is more efficient, which in turn reduces the emission of pollutants and prevents contamination of the catalytic converter. JLM Petrol Catalytic Converter Cleaner is an exclusive combination of special additives that quickly restores the catalytic converter effect, reduces fuel consumption and corrects performance losses caused by impurities. Therefore, JLM Petrol Catalytic Converter Cleaner is recommended for professionals to prepare a vehicle for the emission test (AU).
Application
Suitable for all petrol engines with or without a catalytic converter. Instructions: Pour the contents of the bottle into the tank before filling it with gasoline. Take a test drive at medium engine speeds for maximum effect. For quick results (such as an AU), the product can be added to a smaller amount of fuel, such as 5to 7 gallons of gasoline.
Operate the engine at 2000 to 3000 rpm for 20 to 30 minutes for full effect. Dosage: One bottle is sufficient for 10 gallons of petrol. Use a bottle every 5000 miles for the best results.
In a new additive, contaminated catalyst and lambda probes are to be removed from deposits.
The additive specialist Wynn’s offers a new cleaner that is supposed to remove deposits from contaminated catalytic converters and lambda sensors. According to the provider, catalytic converter and lambda probe problems are among the “top 3” of the most common engine problems.
When using the product, the manufacturer promises to restore the original engine performance. In addition, fuel consumption is reduced to a normal level and pollutant emissions are reduced.
Engine oil that gets into the combustion chamber along with the piston rings, valve guides and the turbocharger and is burned there causes carbon deposits that damage the functional layer of the catalytic converter and reduce its effectiveness.
The same applies to the lambda probe. Due to incorrectly recorded oxygen values, they cause incorrect fuel metering and thus increased consumption. The “Catalytic Converter & Oxygen Sensor Cleaner” is available in a 500 ml container at a gross price of USD 18.95.
What cleaning processes are carried out in the workshop?
Two different forms of cleaning are carried out in the workshop:
Chemical cleaning:
- The particle filter is flushed through with the aid of a special solvent.
- Often a steam jet is also used.
- Particular caution is required here: just like chemicals, the use of a steam jet can destroy the structure of the filter.
Mechanical cleaning:
This method works with high temperatures. The DPF is placed in a kiln at temperatures between 500 and 600 degrees Celsius. The soot residues are burned in the filter during this process. What is left is ashes.
This process takes at least 5 hours, but can also extend over several days. The resulting ash is then removed with compressed air.
It is now up to you whether you have your diesel particulate filter replaced in the workshop, remove the soot yourself with a cleaning agent or take it to professional cleaning.
If cleaning no longer makes sense, you can also order cheap new soot particle filters from us.