A forever reliable and simple equipment is a catalytic converter, which does not need any maintenance at all. Nonetheless, there are some crucial factors that one must know in order to keep it functioning well in its entire service life span. The first thing you should do is avoiding the use of leaded gasoline since this will coat the precious metals in the catalytic converter reducing its efficiency and ultimately leading to its demise. Secondly, ignition and fuel system maintenance has to be done as per manufacture's recommendation. When engine develops misfire, driver is advised not to drive until problem will be solved. Also avoid push starting or towing because it could result in a raw fuel being dumped into the catalyst that can overheat when engine starts up. Never turn off the ignition at high engine speeds too.This may contain materials harmful for converters; therefore no fuel or oil additives should be used. In case if your engine burns oil leaving blue smoke trail behind car you should stop using it anymore. Also remember that car should not be left near dry undergrowth, on long grass or on piles of dead leaves because catalytic converter works under extremely high temperatures after long distance run.Remember that catalytic converters are delicate and must never be struck with tools during servicing work.Sometimes an exhaust odour can smell slightly sulphurous but this is common and will cease after a few thousand miles have been attained by the vehicle.In conclusion, a properly maintained and driven car should have a life of 50-100000 miles from its cat converter.A nonworking cat converter must always be replaced.
