Catalytic Converter Delete – Pros And Cons

Although it may sound good to do a catalytic convertor delete, there are many things you need to think about before moving forward. You want to evaluate both the pros and cons of the cat delete to ensure it’s what you want to do.

We present all the benefits and drawbacks of each option in detail so that you can make an informed choice. Also, we explain the delete function of the catalytic converter. 

What's a Catalytic Converter?

You must first remove the catalytic convertor from your car. This can be done in your garage at home or by a professional. 

Catalytic converter deletion will increase horsepower and make more noise. This will also lower the engine temperature, which allows for greater fuel economy. However, it’s illegal, can cause the Check Engine Light to come on and will make it impossible to pass an emissions test. 

Sometimes, it is possible to simply remove the catalytic convertor without any additional work. The part can also be removed and replaced by a straight pipe. 

Catalytic Converter Pros

1. Horsepower boost

The converter can be removed from your car to increase horsepower. You can increase the engine's horsepower by taking out the catalytic converter. The exhaust gas will exit quicker, which reduces the backpressure.

A better mixture will be able to reach the combustion chamber by creating more airflow. The combustion process is more efficient and produces greater power. 

RELATED: How to Increase Car Engine’s Horsepower & Torque? (8 Steps)

2. Lower Engine Temperature

This holds true for the engine temperature that is not controlled by a catalytic convertor. The engine has fewer demands due to the faster release of gasses, which results in more flow.

The engine will remain more efficient if there is more air in the combustion chamber. The operating temperature drops significantly as a result. 

3. Greater fuel economy

Taking off the converter is going to create better fuel economy for the same reasons we’ve already explained. Vehicles will perform better when there is less engine backpressure, and at a lower temperature. 

The motor will require fewer fuel fill-ups as the load on it is decreasing. This is a positive outcome, especially considering higher gas costs. 

4. Fuel Flexibility

A certain type of unleaded fuel is required to properly care for the catalytic converter. The catalyst could be damaged internally if the fuel is lead-based. 

However, when you remove the catalytic converter, there’s the option to use other fuels. Upgrade to a fuel that is optimized for performance, like leaded racing gasoline. You should only purchase fuels that have been approved by their manufacturer. 

5. Louder Sound

Modern vehicles have a catalytic convert that muffles certain exhaust sounds. This helps reduce how the exhaust gases interact with the engine when they exit the combustion chamber.

The sound from your car will become louder if the catalytic convert is removed. However, this can also be seen as a con, which is why we’ve included it below as well. 

RELATED: Resonator Delete – Pros & Cons (and Average Cost)

6. You can do it at home

Home mechanics should be able remove the catalytic convertor on their own. You will need to first remove the oxygen sensor before you can get the converter off. If you don’t have the right wrench, you may be able to borrow it from the auto parts store.

You must now take off the catalytic convertor. You can now remove the catalytic converter from your exhaust pipe by unscrewing it. If it’s welded, you may need to saw it off. After removing the welded piece, you can install straight pipes. 

Catalytic converter Cons

1. Illegal

The illegal act of removing the catalytic converter from a vehicle is called ejecting the catalytic. You can be fined up to $10,000 and get a ticket for violating EPA regulations.

Even if you aren’t taking your car for an inspection, you could still face trouble. You can be pulled over by the police and fined. 

2. Emissions are rising

Protecting the atmosphere from toxic emissions gases is what the catalytic convertor does. It’s meant to convert the gases into something less harmful.

The vehicle releases all the toxins to the atmosphere when the catalytic convert is removed. This is a further step in the environmental destruction.

RELATED: Muffler Delete: Pros & Cons (and Average Cost) 

3. Failure to pass the emissions test

With the catalytic converter off and these gases hitting the air, you are going to have trouble passing your state’s emissions testing. While it’s not required everywhere, most people have to deal with this aspect on a yearly or bi-annual basis.

You aren’t allowed to legally drive on the road with a failed emissions test. You could be subject to heavy fines. 

4. There is more noise

The noise level in a car can become noise pollution if it reaches an unacceptable level. Excessive noise can cause damage to your ears. 

You might also be causing nuisance to others. A ticket can also be issued if you disturb the peace by making noises that exceed a set decibel level. 

5. Verify Engine Light

A malfunction in the sensor can result from any interfering with engine operations. You may notice the Check Engine Light coming on after you have removed the catalytic convert. There is a way around this for some vehicles. You could fit a spacer to the downstream oxygen sensor. 

This lambda sensor can cause the system to read normally, so the Check Engine Light doesn’t come on. However, this doesn’t change the fact that the system isn’t running as it should. 

6. Additional cost

You can do the catalytic convertor delete yourself, but you will still need to pay for it. You could even have to do the work at home for $50. 

The cost of hiring a professional to help could reach $300. A cat that needs to be cut off will result in a more expensive bill. 

Can the catalytic converter be removed?

In any state, it is illegal to drive a vehicle without a catalytic converter. To find out the legal limits on your emissions system you should refer to the laws of the state. However, regulations are getting more stringent. 

For example, no state is quite as strict as California. In this state, you can’t even install exhaust parts that lack the state’s certification. This is the easiest way to solve these issues. Keep your vehicle exactly as it was when you bought it. 

Are You able to Drive without a Catalytic Converter

It is simple. It’s completely possible to physically drive your vehicle without a catalytic converter. Overall, you won’t notice a massive change in the performance of your vehicle without the catalytic converter, other than the sound you might hear. 

Let’s discuss the legality of driving without the catalytic converter though. While you can drive without the cat, it’s not legal to do so. The EPA has set regulations in states that limit the amount of emissions allowed into the atmosphere. Driving without a cat can lead to severe consequences and fines.

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