Car expert shares key task drivers ignore that keeps engines safe

A car expert has shared a job drivers can do to keep their motors safe - but hardly anyone does. Car guru Kayla Keena has issued a warning that all drivers should be regularly cleaning a key vehicle component to ensure road safety.

While routine checks like oil and water are common, this particular device also needs regular inspection and cleaning, he says. Kayla emphasised the importance of maintaining all parts of a vehicle as they collectively contribute to a smooth driving experience.

She cautioned that some components can quickly accumulate dirt, potentially leading to damage in the long run.

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One such component is the catalytic converter, a device designed to reduce the amount of harmful pollutants emitted from your exhaust.

The catalytic converter achieves this by purifying exhaust gases before they are expelled, using a chemical reaction to transform toxic gases into carbon dioxide and water vapour.

As per the RAC, catalytic converters, or "cats", generally have a long lifespan. However, it's crucial to check them regularly as repairing a faulty one can be costly.

Kayla advises that while it's easy to overlook the cat, drivers should make a conscious effort to keep it clean. In her column for Scioto County Daily News, she wrote: "This car part is one of the main components in your exhaust system, and it helps filter harmful pollutants out of your exhaust so that your emissions are safe."

"Over time, those pollutants, dust, and debris can stack up, clogging your exhaust system if you're not careful. The biggest exhaust system maintenance tip you should know is that you need to regularly clean your catalytic converter."

A blocked catalytic converter can lead to overheating, contamination and physical damage, according to the RAC. When the exhaust system is not free-flowing, it restricts the amount of air entering the engine, leading to decreased efficiency.

Adding cleaning the catalytic converter to your car maintenance checklist is advised by Kayla, who reassures it's a straightforward task.