Volkswagen Polo Quiz
Vehicle care and maintenance

Catalytic converter

In this manual: Vehicle care and maintenance
Vehicle exterior — 4Vehicle interior — 8Instrument cluster — 14Before setting off — 14Opening and closing — 35Sitting correctly and safely — 46Lights and vision — 26Transporting items — 29Practical equipment — 20Starting the engine, changing gear and parking — 34Driver assist systems — 18Air conditioning system — 8At the filling station — 14In the engine compartment — 24Vehicle care and maintenance — 66Practical tips — 2In an emergency — 5Manual opening and closing — 6Vehicle toolkit — 4Hubcaps — 4Changing a wheel — 9Breakdown set — 7Fuses — 4Changing a bulb — 13Starting the engine with jump leads — 4Tow-starting and towing — 7
~1min read
First read and observe the introductory information and safety warnings

The catalytic converter is used for exhaust gas post-treatment and helps to reduce exhaust emissions. To help ensure long-term functionality in the exhaust system and the catalytic converter:

  • Use unleaded petrol only.
  • Do not allow the fuel tank to run empty.
  • Do not overfill engine oil .
  • Do not tow-start the vehicle. Use jump leads .

If you notice misfiring, uneven running or loss of power when the vehicle is moving, reduce speed immediately. The vehicle should be inspected at the nearest qualified workshop. If this happens, unburnt fuel can enter the exhaust system and escape into the atmosphere. The catalytic converter can also be damaged by overheating.

Even when the exhaust purification system is working perfectly, there may be a smell of sulphur from the exhaust in some conditions. This depends on the sulphur content of the fuel being used.

Test yourself

A quick Volkswagen Polo quiz: every answer comes with an explanation and a link to the manual page.