Are you looking for ways to lessen the toxic air pollutants in your car?
Your car needs a catalytic converter to meet emission regulations. The problem comes when the original converter doesn’t work. You need a substitute fast.
Fortunately, with such widespread awareness around catalytic converters, it’s easy to find aftermarket ones. And, with so many options, you need a checklist to ensure you’re getting the best.
This article breaks down the aftermarket catalytic converter vs OEM difference. We help you choose the converter that meets your needs.
What Is an Aftermarket Catalytic Converter?
An aftermarket device that replaces the converter in a vehicle’s exhaust system. It is usually made of ceramic or metallic material. It reduces the harmful emissions that come out of the exhaust. This converter has two functions.
First, it converts hazardous pollutants into relatively less dangerous compounds. It also helps to reduce car noise. Second, It improves the efficiency and performance of the vehicle. It does it while also reducing the number of toxic pollutions.
What Is an OEM Catalytic Converter?
An OEM Catalytic Converter reduces the harmful emissions that a vehicle produces. It transforms exhaust gases into less toxic components. It is typically located near the engine. It is within proximity to the exhaust manifold.
Depending on the type of vehicle, an OEM Catalytic Converter could be a metal shell fixed to the exhaust pipe. It could also be a metallic substrate, a honeycomb coated with metal, or an outer metal shell with ceramic bricks inside.
These devices are designed to reduce air pollutants such as carbon monoxide, hydrocarbons, and nitrogen oxides. This allows vehicles to meet exhaust emission standards the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) set.
The Difference in Price
Aftermarket converters typically have lower prices. This is because they are manufactured without using specialized materials. The manufacturing and quality assurance process for OEM parts is more stringent and expensive.
For these reasons, OEM catalytic converters will often cost more than aftermarket converters. Due to their lower cost, aftermarket converters can be a great option. They are good for someone who doesn’t require top-of-the-line performance.
The Difference in Their Design
The OEM design focuses solely on basic requirements. On the other hand, aftermarket converters add stainless steel features. Moreover, the design of aftermarket converters also incorporates precious metals and more efficient catalysts.
Aftermarket converters may also use a patented filter. It helps to filter out even more contaminants. Which, in turn, will strive to reach emissions levels that surpass OEM specifications.
The Difference in Their Use
OEM catalytic are often made of more durable metals. They can usually handle higher temperatures. On the other hand, an aftermarket catalytic converter is more likely to be made of less durable material. It does not necessarily fit the vehicle perfectly.
Aftermarket catalytic converters can usually filter out only a fraction of the harmful pollutants that OEM catalytic converters can. Ultimately, the decision of which one to use comes down to performance, cost, and availability.
A Contrast Between an Aftermarket Catalytic Converter vs OEM
In conclusion, it is important to know the differences between an aftermarket catalytic converter vs OEM. You have to consider their performance and cost-effectiveness.
However, it is crucial to ensure that the aftermarket converter is fit for purpose, for example, compatible with the vehicle in question. To determine which catalytic converter is right for your car, speak to an experienced automotive technician.
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