Collection: Catalytic Converters - Toyota

Toyota isn’t unique in designing catalytic converters into their vehicles, and ones that work very well at that. In fact, they are a requirement in the US and in many other countries due to emission regualation laws. Some vehicles only have one, sometimes referred to as a “cat”, and some have two or more. If you are curious about your Toyota catalytic converters, what they do, how effective they are, how to know then they are bad and need to be replaced, as well as why it is important to have a properly functioning one, then this is where you need to be. Let’s get to work learning about your catalytic converter. Ready?

Do you know about Toyota?

Toyota, as a company, was the largest automotive manufacturer in the world as of 2016 and in 2017, they employed over 350,000 people. They celebrated a landmark event in 2012 when their 200-millionth vehicle rolled off the assembly line. Toyota is actually based in Toyota, Japan and was founded in 1937 by Kiichiro Toyoda. The automotive company was a separate entity created originally as a division of Toyota Industries by the owner’s son. Originally such a small division of a corporate entity, it has grown to be the manufacturer of such a large proportion of the vehicles sold around the world today.

Do you know about Toyota catalytic converters?

Toyota catalytic converters are built to very high standards, as are Toyota vehicles in general. Some Toyota vehicles, especially the high performance or luxury models, may come with two or more catalytic converters and some that are meant to filter out more of the harmful gases that are produced by the vehicle’s engine. These catalytic converters may have more than one catalyst in them. Toyota takes carbon footprints very seriously and with well-built Toyota catalytic converters, they ensure the exhaust from their vehicles is as safe for the environment as it can be, especially when it comes to newer vehicles that utilize the best and newest technology to minimize vehicle exhaust pollution.

Do you know how effective catalytic converters are?

The purpose of Toyota catalytic converters is to change the gases produced by the engine that are harmful for both people and the environment into less harmful or even completely harmless gases. Sometimes the gases can even be changed to steam which is completely inert. The catalytic converter does this by using a catalyst, which is usually palladium or platinum, to cause a chemical reaction with the substances in the harmful gases. That chemical reaction changes the bad gases but leaves the platinum or palladium unchanged. As mentioned, some Toyota catalytic converters can even contain more than one catalyst making them even more efficient.

Toyota catalytic converters can be very effective in reducing the carbon footprint of their vehicles. When the vehicle is at operating temperature, most of the gases are exchanged. When the vehicle is cold, still warming up, it may not be as effective, however. For the first 10-15 minutes the car is running, the catalytic converter doesn’t function as well. New technology is being developed continuously to help reduce the amount of pollution that the vehicles we drive send into the environment.

Do you know the signs of a bad catalytic converter?

There are a few signs that your Toyota catalytic converter is either not functioning as well as it should be or that it is blocked in some way. Blockages can happen for several reasons including misfiring spark plugs and engines that have worn or faulty components. However, you can start to suspect a problem with your catalytic converter if you are noticing: poor gas mileage, poor acceleration, you can’t start the vehicle, you have failed an emissions test, or the check engine light is on.

If you have more than one of these problems, it is most likely going to be a problem with your exhaust and you will want to get it diagnosed by a mechanic or even someone trained in exhaust systems. Diagnostics by a trained professional is the only real way to know if the catalytic converter is the culprit of your vehicle’s problems.

Do you know when to replace your catalytic converter?

Getting your Toyota diagnosed is as easy as taking it to a shop. The Toyota dealership is equipped to handle this and so are many shops you may find around town. They will check your vehicle with a computer, run an emissions test, and may do a visual inspection of your exhaust. If they find your Toyota catalytic converter is to blame, they will give you options as to how to fix the problem. Most likely, you will have to replace it, and sooner is better. There are Toyota catalytic converters that fit your specific model and there are also universal ones that are made to fit any vehicle. It is important to look into the pros and cons of going with each so you can make the right decision for your vehicle.

Do you know why having a properly working catalytic converter is important?

Not only can Toyota catalytic converters that aren’t working properly, or are completely failing, be damaging for people around the vehicle and the environment, there can be more damage under the hood. When your catalytic converter is blocked, you can cause damage to the internal parts of your engine, including the: crankshaft, bearings, rings and valves. These repairs will cost much more in the long run than it will cost to replace Toyota catalytic converters. This is why it is very important to keep up with the maintenance on your Toyota.

Whether you found out you need a new catalytic converter because you failed an emissions test and had no idea there was an issue, or you started smelling something funny, you will need to take care of the problem right away by seeing a mechanic about Toyota catalytic converters. It might be that replacing it will help keep your Toyota on the road, with minimal repairs, for a long time to come.