A catalytic converter is a device that is attached to your exhaust pipe. It filters the exhaust, removing harmful pollutants such as carbon monoxide, nitric oxide, nitric dioxide, and unburnt hydrocarbons. Catalytic converters have been mandatory in the USA since 1975 and have dramatically reduced air pollution.
Catalytic converters work by passing the exhaust through an excellent honeycomb-like structure made of ceramic. The ceramic is coated with a thin layer of precious metals such as platinum, palladium, and rhodium. Some newer catalytic converters models use a thin foil instead of ceramic, which requires fewer precious metals.
When the exhaust fumes touch the metal, pollutants are turned into harmless byproducts such as carbon dioxide, water, and oxygen. A single catalytic converter can be expected to last ten years or more. If you’d like to increase the efficiency of your catalytic converter, the occasional use of a catalytic converter cleaner can help remove light buildups of soot and grime.
Why Are Catalytic Converters Stolen?
Catalytic converters contain a small number of precious metals. Even though very little metal is used, some metals are worth more than ten times as much as gold.
In the last decade, the price of the metals used in catalytic converters has risen dramatically. For example, palladium has tripled in price, and rhodium is now worth 15 times as much as it was in 2015. The recent increase in catalytic converter scrap price has led to increasing catalytic converter theft, particularly from older vehicles, as these contain more significant amounts of precious metals.
So, how much is a catalytic converter sold on the black market? Due to the somewhat dubious quality control systems, a stolen catalytic converter can be sold for as little as $50. Even if you have to pay a little more, it’s worth ensuring that any second-hand converter you buy comes from a respectable dealer.
If you’re concerned about your vehicle being targeted, you can do some things. Catalytic converter shields prevent theft and protect your catalytic converter from accidental damage. You can also have your license plate number etched into the casing of your catalytic converter. This allows any reputable dealer to know it’s been stolen.
How Many Catalytic Converters Does A Lincoln Navigator Have?
The Lincoln navigator’s powerful V6 and V8 engines require two exhaust manifolds to handle the output produced by the double banks of cylinders. This means that not one but two catalytic converters are fitted to the Lincoln Navigator. The same goes for the Lincoln Aviator, though not all Lincoln SUVs require two catalytic converters. For instance, the four-cylinder engine of the Lincoln Corsair only requires one.
If you need a new catalytic converter for your car, our dealership Central Florida Lincoln offers various converters for all makes and models of Lincoln cars. Give us a call today, or our service team is always happy to help you out.
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