Your car’s ignition system is the unsung hero that ensures smooth starts, efficient combustion, and optimal engine performance. At the heart of this system are two critical components: spark plugs and ignition coils. While they may seem small, their role is massive—without them, your engine wouldn’t run at all. In this blog post, we’ll break down how spark plugs and ignition coils work, signs they might be failing, and why keeping them in good condition is essential for your vehicle’s health. 1. The Role of Spark Plugs in the Ignition System Spark plugs are small but mighty components that deliver the electric spark needed to ignite the air-fuel mixture in the combustion chamber. Here’s how they work: - High-voltage electricity from the ignition coil travels to the spark plug. - The spark plug generates a spark across its electrode gap, igniting the compressed fuel-air mixture. - This controlled explosio...
When it comes to your car’s exhaust system, the catalytic converter (often called the "catalyst") plays a crucial role in reducing harmful emissions. However, when it fails, it can lead to performance issues and even legal problems. In this blog post, we’ll explore **how a catalytic converter works** and **what happens when it goes bad**. What Does a Catalytic Converter Do? The catalytic converter is an essential part of your car’s exhaust system. Its main job is to **convert harmful pollutants into less harmful gases** before they exit the tailpipe. Here’s how it works: 1. Reduces Harmful Emissions The catalyst contains precious metals like platinum, palladium, and rhodium,which facilitate chemical reactions that break down pollutants: - Carbon monoxide (CO)→ Converted into carbon dioxide (CO₂) - Hydrocarbons (HC)→ Converted into water (H₂O) and CO₂ - Nitrogen oxides (NOx) → Broken down into nitrogen (N₂) and oxygen (O₂)* 2. Helps M...