2009 Acura MDX Owner's Manual - Page 466

Main Menu Table Of Contents Three Way Catalytic Converter The three way catalytic converter contains precious metals that serve as catalysts, promoting chemical reactions to convert the exhaust gasses without affecting the metals. The catalytic converter is referred to as a three-way catalyst, since it acts on HC, CO, and NOx. A replacement unit must be an original Acura part or its equivalent. The three way catalytic converter must operate at a high temperature for the chemical reactions to take place. It can set on fire any combustible materials that come near it. Park your vehicle away from high grass, dry leaves, or other flammables. THREE WAY CATALYTIC CONVERTER WARM UP THREE WAY CATALYTIC CONVERTERS ● A defective three way catalytic converter contributes to air pollution, and can impair your engine's performance. Follow these guidelines to protect your vehicle's three way catalytic converter. ● Keep the engine well maintained. Have your vehicle diagnosed and repaired if it is misfiring, backfiring, stalling, or otherwise not running properly. ● Always use unleaded gasoline. Even a small amount of leaded gasoline can contaminate the catalyst metals, making the three way catalytic converter ineffective. 462 2009 MDX