After many years of operating the car, owners often think about dismantling the neutralizing element. Removing the filter element leads to noticeable changes in engine operation. Power increases by 3-7%, and fuel consumption can decrease by about 0.5-1 liter per 100 kilometers. At the same time, you can keep the old used catalytic converters. On the Avtokatalyst platform, you will receive decent compensation for it.
Many car owners note an improvement in the response of the gas pedal and a more “lively” character of the car after removal. However, it is worth remembering that these advantages have their price in the form of increased noise levels and environmental restrictions. The changes become especially noticeable in the cold season, when the sound of the engine becomes sharper.
Important consequences of dismantling
Technical changes:
- A significant increase in the noise of the power plant, especially noticeable during sharp acceleration and at high engine speeds.
- Reducing the backpressure in the cleaning system improves the dynamics of the car and can extend the service life of some engine components.
- Possible occurrence of errors in the electronic control unit requires additional programming or installation of lambda probe tricks.
- Risk of overheating of the exhaust manifold due to altered exhaust gas temperature.
- Increased load on the turbine in turbocharged engines.
- Increased temperature in the engine compartment, which may adversely affect the operation of other components.
Legislative restrictions:
- Inability to pass environmental control due to exceeding the permissible levels of harmful substances.
- Significant risk of receiving a large fine if changes in the design of the car are detected.
- Difficulties in selling the car due to the absence of a mandatory design element.
- Prohibition of operation in some regions with strict environmental control.
- Problems with registering with the State Traffic Safety Inspectorate after purchasing a used car.
- Possible difficulties when traveling abroad, especially to the countries of the European Union.
Before dismantling, it is necessary to carefully weigh all the circumstances. Increased power and slight fuel savings may not compensate for the negative consequences. It is especially important to take into account regional requirements for environmental standards and the possibility of passing a technical inspection. If there are signs of clogging of the filter element, it is recommended to first carry out diagnostics. Often the problem is solved by cleaning or replacing individual components, which preserves the legality of the vehicle operation and maintains its environmental performance at an acceptable level.
Owners of new cars are strongly advised not to dismantle it, as this will lead to loss of warranty and possible problems with official dealers. In addition, modern filter systems have an improved design and rarely cause problems with proper operation of the car.
Alternative solutions
Instead of complete dismantling, it is worth considering alternative solutions to the problem. For example, you can carry out professional diagnostics and cleaning of the system, which often helps to restore its functionality. In some cases, an effective solution is to install a sports neutralizer, which provides better gas permeability while maintaining the basic cleaning functionality.
