Genuine Volvo S40 Catalytic Converter

Volvo S40 Catalytic Converter Parts and Q&A

• Catalytic Converter
  36000617
  Q: What are the important considerations for maintaining a catalytic converter on Volvo S40?

  A:

  On petrol versions, a three way catalytic converter is used as part of the exhaust manifold and the front part of the exhaust pipe and on diesel versions an oxidation catalytic converter is fitted downstream of the turbocharger. This is a reliable and easy to use device that does not need maintenance, but there are several important considerations that owners should be aware of to ensure optimal functioning over the device's service life. Do not use leaded petrol or LRP as lead will coat the precious metals reducing the efficiency and ultimately destroying the converter. It is important to keep the ignition and fuel systems in accordance with the manufacturer's schedule. If there is a misfire in the engine, avoid driving the vehicle until the problem is fixed. Do not push- or tow-start the vehicle because this may soak the catalytic converter in unburned fuel, causing overheating when the engine starts. Do not turn off the ignition at high engine speeds, do not use additives to fuels and engine oil because they may contain harmful substances. If the engine burns oil to the point of emitting blue smoke that is visible, discontinue using the vehicle. Be aware that the catalytic converter reaches very hot temperatures so do not leave the vehicle parked in dry undergrowth, long grass or piles of dead leaves after a long run. Handle the catalytic converter with care because it is fragile and should not be hit with tools while servicing. A sulphurous odour similar to rotting eggs might be occasionally noticed emanating from the exhaust, which is common in many vehicles fitted with catalytic converters, and this should reduce after a few thousand miles and changing the brand of petrol may improve the problem. A well maintained and driven vehicle should get the catalytic converter to survive between 50,000 and 100,000 miles and if it is no good, it has to be replaced.
• Catalytic Converter
  8603599
  Q: What are the essential facts owners should be aware of to ensure the proper functioning of a catalytic converter throughout its service life on Volvo S40?

  A:

  The catalytic converter is a reliable and simple device that does not require any maintenance by itself, there are however some facts that the owner should be aware of to ensure that it functions properly during its service life. It is crucial to maintain the fuel system well on a manufacturer's schedule. If the engine puts on a misfire, driving the car should be avoided until the problem is fixed. Pushing or tow starting the vehicle can cause unburned fuel to soak the catalytic converter causing it to overheat when the engine starts. Switching off the ignition at high engine speeds should also be avoided, as should the use of fuel or engine oil additives that can damage the converter. Continuing to use the vehicle while the engine burns oil in the form of visible blue smoke is not a good idea. The catalytic converter is a device that works at very high temperatures, therefore it is best to not allow the car to park in dry undergrowth, long grass or heaps of dead leaves after a long run. Additionally, the catalytic converter is delicate and should not be hit by tools when it is serviced. A sulphurous smell reminiscent of rotten eggs may sometimes be noticed emanating from the exhaust, which is common with many vehicles fitted with catalytic converters, this problem should usually resolve itself after a few thousand miles, and changing the brand of diesel may help in the meantime. A well-maintained and well-driven car should ensure that the catalytic converter will last from 50,000 to 100,000 miles, and if it starts to lose its effectiveness, it will have to be replaced.