Revving engines, blistering speeds, and exhilarating performance—these are the hallmarks of automotive enthusiasts who crave the raw power and thrilling sound of a well-tuned machine.
For many, the journey to unlock maximum horsepower involves making modifications to their beloved vehicles.
But wait! Before you dive headfirst into the world of high flow cats and their potential benefits, there’s an important question that needs answering:
Will these high-performance components trigger that dreaded check engine light? In this blog, we will discuss all about these.
Will high flow cats throw a code?
Yes, high flow catalytic converters can potentially trigger a check engine light or error code on a vehicle’s onboard diagnostic system.
This is because the increased flow of exhaust gases through the high flow cat can sometimes result in a difference in emissions levels that are detected by the system.
However, whether or not a code is thrown depends on various factors, such as the specific vehicle and the type of high flow cat being used.
What is the difference between a high flow catalytic converter and a regular one?
The differences between a high flow catalytic converter and a regular one are:
| High Flow Catalytic Converter | Regular Catalytic Converter |
|---|---|
| 1. A high flow catalytic converter exhaust gas flow and increase the overall performance of the vehicle. It is commonly used in high-performance and modified vehicles. | 1. A regular catalytic converter is the standard type found in most vehicles. It reduces harmful emissions and meet emissions regulations. |
| 2. It has larger internal chambers and a more open structure, allowing for smoother and faster exhaust gas flow. This reduces back pressure and increases engine power and efficiency. | 2. It has smaller internal chambers and a more restrictive design, which creates more back pressure in the exhaust system. This helps in reducing emissions but can decrease engine performance. |
| 3. The high flow catalytic converter is made of higher-quality materials that can withstand higher temperatures and increased exhaust gas flow.. | 3. The regular catalytic converter is typically made of less expensive materials. |
| 4. Due to its design, the high flow catalytic converter may be louder than a regular converter, as it allows more exhaust sound to pass through. | 4. A regular catalytic converter is designed to muffle exhaust noise and reduce sound levels. |
| 5. The high flow catalytic converter is often more expensive than a regular converter. | 5. A regular catalytic converter is generally more affordable and widely available. |
| 6. High flow catalytic converters are commonly used by car enthusiasts and individuals seeking to maximize their vehicle’s performance, while still meeting emissions regulations. | 6. Regular catalytic converters are used in most vehicles to ensure compliance with emissions standards and reduce air pollution. |
What are the factors that influence High Flow Cats’ Impact on CEL?
When it comes to High Flow Catalytic Converters (High Flow Cats) and their impact on Check Engine Light (CEL) issues, several factors come into play.
Here are some key points to consider:
1. Quality and Compatibility:
The quality of the High Flow Cat and its compatibility with your vehicle can greatly influence the likelihood of triggering a CEL.
Opting for a reputable brand that meets or exceeds the specifications of your vehicle’s original catalytic converter can reduce the chances of encountering CEL problems.
2. Engine Management System:
Modern vehicles are equipped with advanced engine management systems that constantly monitor various parameters to ensure optimal performance and emissions control.
The system relies on the data received from sensors located before and after the catalytic converter to determine if the emissions levels are within acceptable limits.
Any modification to the catalytic converter, including the installation of a High Flow Cat, may disrupt this delicate balance and potentially trigger a CEL.
3. Oxygen Sensor Placement:
High Flow Cats may require the relocation or modification of oxygen sensors to ensure proper installation.
These sensors play a crucial role in monitoring the air-fuel mixture and emissions.
If the sensors are not accurately placed or their readings are affected by the modification, the engine management system may interpret the data incorrectly and trigger a CEL.
4. Check Engine Light Thresholds:
Each vehicle has predefined thresholds for triggering a CEL. These thresholds are set by the manufacturer to indicate when emissions or performance parameters deviate from the expected range.
High Flow Cats, although designed to maintain or improve emissions control, may still result in emissions readings that exceed the predetermined thresholds, leading to a CEL.
5. Vehicle Age and Condition:
Older vehicles or those with pre-existing engine issues may be more susceptible to CEL problems when installing High Flow Cats.
Aging sensors, wiring, or other components may not be able to adapt to the changes caused by the modification, increasing the likelihood of triggering a CEL.
6. Installation Quality:
The installation process of High Flow Cats is crucial. If not done properly, it can introduce air leaks, improper sensor placement, or other issues that may result in a CEL.
It’s important to have the installation performed by experienced professionals who are familiar with your vehicle and the specific requirements of High Flow Cat installations.
7. ECU Programming:
In some cases, reprogramming or tuning the vehicle’s Engine Control Unit (ECU) may be necessary to accommodate the changes made by installing a High Flow Cat.
This can help the ECU adapt to the new catalytic converter and prevent false CEL triggers.
However, improper or inadequate ECU programming can also lead to CEL issues.
What are the Benefits of High Flow Catalytic Converters?
High flow catalytic converters offer several benefits that can greatly enhance the performance and environmental efficiency of vehicles.
Here are the key advantages of high flow catalytic converters:
1. Improved Exhaust Flow:
High flow catalytic converters are designed to minimize exhaust flow restriction compared to standard catalytic converters.
They feature larger diameters, optimized internal designs, and reduced cell densities, allowing exhaust gases to flow more freely.
This improvement in exhaust flow reduces backpressure, which can lead to increased horsepower and torque, resulting in enhanced engine performance.
2. Enhanced Engine Response:
With reduced exhaust flow restriction, high flow catalytic converters enable engines to breathe more efficiently.
This improvement in exhaust gas flow allows for faster evacuation of exhaust gases from the combustion chamber, resulting in improved throttle response and reduced turbo lag.
As a result, the engine can deliver power more quickly and responsively, making the vehicle feel more lively and engaging to drive.
3. Increased Power Output:
By minimizing exhaust flow restriction, high flow catalytic converters help unleash the full potential of the engine.
They allow engines to expel exhaust gases more efficiently, which can lead to an increase in power output.
The reduced backpressure enables the engine to operate at its optimal performance level, resulting in improved acceleration and overall power delivery.
4. Enhanced Fuel Efficiency:
High flow catalytic converters can contribute to improved fuel efficiency.
By reducing backpressure and allowing the engine to breathe more freely, they optimize the combustion process.
This can result in a more complete burn of fuel, leading to better fuel efficiency.
Additionally, improved throttle response and engine performance can reduce the need for heavy acceleration, further enhancing fuel economy.
5. Environmental Friendliness:
While high flow catalytic converters offer performance benefits, they also play a crucial role in reducing harmful emissions.
These converters incorporate advanced catalyst materials that effectively convert toxic pollutants, such as carbon monoxide (CO), nitrogen oxides (NOx), and hydrocarbons (HC), into less harmful substances.
By improving the efficiency of the catalyst, high flow converters can help vehicles meet or exceed emission standards, reducing their impact on air quality and the environment.
6. Longevity and Durability:
High flow catalytic converters are often constructed using high-quality materials and advanced manufacturing techniques.
They are designed to withstand higher exhaust temperatures and increased flow rates, ensuring durability and longevity.
This means they can maintain their performance and emissions-reducing capabilities over an extended period, providing consistent benefits throughout the lifespan of the converter.
7. Easy Installation:
High flow catalytic converters are typically designed as direct-fit replacements for the original equipment catalytic converters.
This means they can be easily installed without the need for modifications or additional components.
They are designed to fit specific vehicle models and exhaust systems, simplifying the installation process and reducing downtime.
FAQs
Q. Will Installing High Flow Cats Cause My Vehicle’s Check Engine Light To Come On?
A: Installing high flow cats can potentially trigger a check engine light (CEL) or a diagnostic trouble code (DTC).
This is because high flow cats typically have lower catalytic efficiency compared to the original equipment manufacturer (OEM) converters.
The CEL is a warning from your vehicle’s onboard diagnostics system that something is amiss.
Q. Why Does The Check Engine Light Come On With High Flow Cats?
A: The check engine light may come on due to various reasons when high flow cats are installed.
One common cause is the change in exhaust gas flow and composition.
Since high flow cats are designed to allow for more exhaust flow, the reduction in backpressure can alter the readings from oxygen sensors, leading the engine control unit (ECU) to detect a potential issue.
Q. Can I Prevent A Code From Being Thrown With High Flow Cats?
A: While there is no guaranteed way to prevent a code from being thrown, you can take certain measures to minimize the chances.
One option is to use an O2 sensor spacer or an electronic device designed to simulate the readings of the oxygen sensors.
These devices can help maintain the appropriate voltage range and reduce the likelihood of triggering a code.
Q. What Should I Do If My Check Engine Light Comes On After Installing High Flow Cats?
A: If your check engine light illuminates after installing high flow cats, it’s crucial not to ignore it.
The best course of action is to have the code read with an OBD-II scanner to determine the specific issue.
Depending on the code, you might need to consult a mechanic or automotive professional to diagnose and resolve the problem.
Q. Are High Flow Cats Legal?
A: The legality of high flow cats varies by jurisdiction. In many places, modifying the catalytic converter or installing aftermarket high flow cats that do not meet emissions standards is considered illegal.
It’s essential to research and understand the regulations in your area before making any modifications to your vehicle’s exhaust system.
Q. Are There Any Drawbacks To Using High Flow Cats?
A: While high flow cats can provide performance benefits, there are potential drawbacks to consider.
As mentioned earlier, they may trigger a check engine light or cause other emissions-related issues.
Additionally, some high flow cats may not be as efficient at reducing harmful emissions as OEM catalytic converters, which could negatively impact air quality.
Conclusion
If you’re considering installing high-flow catalytic converters in your vehicle, you might be wondering whether they will trigger a diagnostic trouble code (DTC) and cause your check engine light to come on.
While the installation of high-flow catalytic converters can potentially result in a DTC and illuminate the check engine light, it is not an inevitable outcome.
The quality of the converters, the vehicle’s make and model, and various other factors can influence the likelihood of triggering a code.
