The catalytic converter is a reliable and simple device that does not require maintenance.
However, there are facts that the car owner must be aware of if they want the catalytic converter to work properly throughout its life.
Do not use gasoline containing tetraethyl lead to refuel a car that has a catalytic converter installed - lead will coat the precious metals, reducing their effectiveness, and, over time, will disable the converter.
If the engine starts to misfire, do not drive (or manage as little as possible), until the source of the problem is corrected.
Do not attempt to start the engine by pushing or towing the vehicle, this will introduce unburned fuel into the catalytic converter, causing it to overheat after starting the engine.
Do not turn off the ignition when the engine is running at high speed, i.e. do not press the accelerator pedal immediately before switching off the ignition.
Do not use fuel or engine oil additives. They may contain substances harmful to the catalytic converter.
Do not drive if the engine is burning oil so badly that blue smoke is visible.
Be aware that the catalytic converter operates at very high temperatures. Therefore, do not park your car in tall, dry grass or on a pile of dry leaves after a long drive.
Be aware that the catalytic converter is very fragile. Do not strike it when repairing the car.
In some cases, a sulfur smell may come out of the exhaust pipe (smells like rotten eggs). This is a common occurrence for new vehicles that have a catalytic converter installed. After several thousand kilometers, the smell should disappear.
The catalytic converter on a car that has been regularly serviced and driven properly should last between 80,000 and 150,000 km. However, if the catalytic converter loses its effectiveness before this period, it must be replaced.