You just spent good money replacing your vehicle's failing or stolen catalytic converter. You’ve bolted it up, cleared your check engine codes, and are ready to hit the road. But wait! Did you know that a brand-new catalytic converter will benefit from a break-in period?
Here is why the break-in process matters and how to do it right.
Why Do Catalytic Converters Need to Be Broken In?
Inside your new catalytic converter is a ceramic or metallic honeycomb core wrapped in a special expansion mat. This mat is designed to hold the core firmly in place as the metal housing expands and contracts with extreme exhaust heat.
When the converter is brand new, this mat is completely unbaked. The break-in process gradually heats the mat, allowing it to cure, expand, and lock the internal substrate into place. If you start your car and immediately take it on the highway for a high-revving joyride, the sudden, extreme heat can make it more difficult for the mat to cure properly. This will cause the internal core to come loose, rattle, and eventually break apart.
The Catalytic Converter Break-In Procedure
The process is simple and only takes a few minutes, but can add to the lifespan of your exhaust system.
- Start the Engine: Turn the vehicle on, but do not rev the engine. Leave the car in Park or Neutral.
- Warm Up at Idle: Allow the car to idle completely normally. Do this until the vehicle reaches its normal operating temperature (watch your dashboard temperature gauge until it sits in the middle).
- Hold the RPMs: Once the engine is at normal operating temperature, gently press the accelerator and hold the engine at roughly 2,500 RPMs for two minutes. Do this while the car is still in Park.
- Cool Down: Let off the gas, turn the engine off, and allow the catalytic converter to cool down completely.
Once the exhaust system has cooled, the expansion mat will be fully cured, and your vehicle is ready for normal driving!
A Quick Warning Before You Install
Before you install any new catalytic converter, you must identify what caused the original one to fail. Converters don't usually die on their own; they can be killed by engine issues like rich fuel mixtures or oil leaks. If you don't fix the root engine problem, your new converter may fail exactly like the old one. Be certain you've detected the original failure cause so you can address it.
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Following a simple break-in procedure is an easy way to be sure your new cat is running exactly as intended. Shop our selection today for reliable, factory-grade performance:
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Contact us with any questions, and order online today to get your high-quality replacement catalytic converters - fast!