Handling vehicles with catalytic converters

To avoid damage to the lambda sensor and the catalytic converter, the following instructions must be observed:

• Only refuel with unleaded petrol.

• Starting the engine by push-starting or towing is not permitted. Use jump leads.

  Unburnt fuel could cause the catalytic converter to overheat and be destroyed if it ignites.

• If starting difficulties occur, do not operate the starter motor unnecessarily long. Fuel is injected continuously while cranking. Determine and rectify the cause of the fault.

• Never run the fuel tank completely empty.

• If misfiring occurs, avoid high engine speeds and rectify the fault immediately.

• Only use the specified spark plugs.

• Carry out spark test only with the spark plug connector disconnected, and only if fuel injection is simultaneously prevented by disconnecting the fuel pump relay.

• If ignition faults occur, when identifying the fault, make sure that fuel is not injected while the starter is operated. To do this, disconnect the fuel injection control relay or the fuel pump relay.

• Do not park the vehicle over dry leaves, grass or on a stubble field. The exhaust system becomes very hot in the area of the catalytic converter and continues to radiate heat even after the engine has been switched off.

• Do not apply underbody protection to the exhaust system.

• The heat shields of the exhaust system must not be modified.

• When adding or topping up engine oil, make sure the oil level never exceeds the MAX mark on the dipstick. Excess oil can otherwise reach the catalytic converter through incomplete combustion, damaging the precious metal or destroying the catalytic converter completely.