What temperatures can be reached with a catalytic converter?

Exhaust catalysts usually operate in the temperature range 150–600 °C, but they can experience temperatures of up to 1000 °C. The conditions that can produce such high temperatures include repeated misfire (resulting in the oxidation of large amounts of unburned fuel over the catalyst) and high driving speeds.

How do you check a catalytic converter with a scan tool?

How To Use A Scan Tool To Check Your Catalytic Converter

Step 1: Take the connector for the scan tool and plug it into the OBDII port which should found on the left-hand side of the steering wheel.
Step 2: Turn on the vehicle and left it run for 10-15 minutes to increase the temperature.

How do you test a catalytic converter with a scan tool?

How do you cool down a catalytic converter?

Idle the engine and allow it to warm up slowly. After five minutes, increase engine speed to 2,500 rpm. Hold engine speed at 2,500 rpm for two minutes. Allow the engine to cool down.

How do you test a catalytic converter with a thermometer?

Still, you can test your catalytic converter efficiency using a suitable kitchen thermometer, or better yet, an infrared thermometer like this one (recommended). Start the engine and let it idle for about 20 minutes to bring it up to operating temperature. Or take your car to the highway and then come back home.

Where is the catalytic converter located on a car?

The catalytic converter is usually located close to the engine so you only need to raise the front. Place car stoppers against the rear wheels for added safety. Take an infrared thermometer and measure the temperature at the front of the catalytic converter. You only need to measure the surface temperature so an infrared thermometer is perfect.

How to check the temperature of your car with an infrared thermometer?

The best way to do a temperature check is using an infrared thermometer. Here are the steps. Switch on the engine and let it idle for 20 minutes. This allows it to rise to its normal temperature. You can also take the car for a short drive on the road or highway then come back.

How do I know if my car has a bad catalytic converter?

If the front temperature is higher than the rear temperature, there’s a problem. If the rear temperature of the catalytic converter is 20 or more degrees hotter than the front, your catalytic converter is likely okay. If you are still experiencing problems with the engine and exhaust, check the muffler.