1994 Honda Civic Owner's Manual - Page 191

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 Honda 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 car away from high grass, dry leaves, or other flammables. Always use unleaded gasoline. Even a small amount of leaded gasoline can contaminate the catalyst metals, making the converter ineffective. Keep the engine tuned-up. Have your car diagnosed and repaired if it is misfiring, backfiring, continuing to run after you turn off the engine, stalling, or otherwise not running properly. CATALYTIC CONVERTER A defective catalytic converter contributes to air pollution, and can impair your engine's performance. Follow these guidelines to protect your car's catalytic converter. Technical Information