What is a Car Catalytic Converter? Function & Replacement Cost

Have you ever thought about why your car doesn't emit toxic gases? That's the magic of a car catalytic converter. Basically, the catalytic converter sits at the bottom of your vehicle and selectively converts toxic gases into harmless ones.

Thus, it protects the environment. This expensive part performs several functions. Plus, with rising theft (often called ‘silencer theft’), you should know the replacement costs.

In this blog, let us explore a car catalytic converter's replacement cost, how it works, and more.

​What is a Car Catalytic Converter?

Are you wondering what a car catalytic converter is? Whenever your car is burning fuel, it naturally emits noxious emissions. Well, the converter is designed to serve as a sort of chemical filter, turning hazardous emissions into less harmful pollutants before they come out of your tailpipe and into the air.

Your vehicle's exhaust system is incomplete without a catalytic converter. Placed between the engine's exhaust manifold and the muffler, it looks like a small metal ‘can’ with a special structure inside.

What is the ​Function of a Catalytic Converter in Your Car?

Knowing how a car's catalytic converter works is easy if you think of it as a tiny chemistry lab. When the exhaust gases from the engine are flowing through the converter's hot honeycomb, the precious metals react. Here is how a catalytic converter functions in a car:

1. Carbon Monoxide: The converter turns harmful carbon monoxide into safer carbon dioxide.
2. Nitrogen Oxides: It reduces nitrogen oxides to clean nitrogen gas and oxygen so no smog can form.
3. Hydrocarbons (Unused Fuel): It gets converted into carbon dioxide and water vapour.
4. Protect the Environment:  As the converter neutralises these deadly gases, your vehicle conforms to India's stringent BS6 emission norms. Thus, it makes the air you breathe fresher.

​Rising Catalytic Converter Theft in India

Did you know that catalytic converter theft is on the rise in India? You wouldn't believe the kind of crime epidemic it is turning out to be, as indicated by police records from Mumbai, Pune, and Ahmedabad.

But why are thieves targeting car catalytic converters? Well, the hidden metals inside the converter itself- platinum, palladium, and rhodium- are worth several thousand rupees per gram on the black market.

Crooks can crawl beneath your vehicle, saw through the exhaust pipe, and drive away with your converter in less than a minute. It will make your car sound like a roaring tractor, and it won't pass emissions testing.

What is the ​Catalytic Converter Replacement Cost in India?

​If your converter is stolen or damaged, replacing it is not cheap. The transition to strict BS6 emission standards has made modern converters highly advanced and expensive.

​The catalytic converter replacement cost in India heavily depends on your vehicle's make, fuel type, and engine size. Here are the approximate catalytic converter replacement cost in India: 

Note: Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) parts for BS6 diesel vehicles often fall on the higher side of this spectrum.

​Does Your Car Insurance Cover Catalytic Converter Theft?

A replacement bill of ₹40,000 in no time can wipe out your monthly expenses. That is when your car insurance policy comes to help you. The standard third-party policy does not pay for the theft of car parts or damage. Theft and accidental damage are covered if you have a Bajaj General Insurance Car Insurance policy.

To get the best coverage, you can consider these add-ons:

1. Zero Depreciation Cover: Metal parts usually have a high depreciation percentage during claims. A zero-dep cover lets you get 100% of the catalytic converter's replacement cost on the claim without including any depreciation.
2. Exhaust Protection Cover: In addition to severe engine damage, our comprehensive cover protects the interior guts and exhaust system from incidental damage on the road.

Final Thoughts

​Your car catalytic converter is essential for reducing pollution and keeping your vehicle road-legal. However, its valuable internal metals make it a prime target for thieves, and replacing it can be highly expensive.

To drive with complete peace of mind, always park in well-lit areas and secure a comprehensive car insurance policy from Bajaj General Insurance. Download the Bajaj General app and get your car insured within minutes.

​FAQs About Car Catalytic Converter

What happens if I drive without a catalytic converter?

If you drive without a car catalytic converter, your car will release toxic gases into the environment. It also reduces your car’s mileage and creates loud exhaust noises. Moreover, you will also fail your mandatory emission (PUC) tests.

Is catalytic converter theft covered by car insurance?

Yes, but only if you have a comprehensive car insurance policy. A basic third-party policy will not cover theft or damage to your vehicle's internal or external parts.

How do I know if my catalytic converter is stolen?

If your car’s converter gets stolen, you will notice a loud roaring noise as soon as you start the engine. Additionally, your car's dashboard might display a check engine light immediately after the theft.

*Standard T&C apply. Disclaimer: The content on this page is generic and shared only for informational and explanatory purposes. It is based on several secondary sources on the internet and is subject to changes. Please consult an expert before making any related decisions. Insurance is the subject matter of solicitation. For more details on benefits, exclusions, limitations, terms, and conditions, please read the sales brochure/policy wording carefully before concluding a sale.