Top 10 Best Catalytic Converter Cleaners [2021]
Catalytic converters are an important part of the vehicle exhaust system. This is not something that most drivers often see, but it is really important. The catalytic converter has two functions: it can filter the chemicals and dangerous gases emitted by the vehicle, and help ensure that the engine is running properly.
It will lead to better engine performance, prevent the check engine light from coming on, and ensure your car passes inspection.
What is a catalytic converter?
Catalytic converter meaning: a catalytic converter is a device that is part of the vehicle’s emission control system. The combustion engine produces a large number of toxic pollutants and gases after its fuel-air mixture ignites in the chamber.
If these harmful elements were to come out, they would be harmful to people and the environment. That is why a catalyst is used in a car because its task is to convert these toxic gases into less harmful ones.
This is done by generating a redox reaction in the gases. In other words, the harmful elements in gases are reduced and oxidized to become more neutral.
Catalytic converters constantly work in conjunction with your vehicle. These need to be cleaned regularly as they tend to build up dirt and deposits after a while.
If you can’t clean your converter regularly, you will eventually have trouble doing its job. In this way, more toxic gases could be emitted into the atmosphere. And if you live in a state that requires emissions testing, you won’t pass this test if you have a dirty catalyst. Additionally, a broken catalytic converter could cause a major engine failure.
Fortunately, the simple solution to this problem is to buy a good quality catalyst cleaner and use it to clean the catalyst at least twice a year.
The following are our top picks when it comes to choosing catalytic converter cleaners.
-
Best
Value
Cataclean 120007
4.13,268 reviews
-
Editors
Choice
DURA LUBE Severe Catalytic and Exhaust Treatment
4.1600 reviews
-
Motorkote Catalytic and Exhaust Treatment
4.1354 reviews
-
Rislone Cat Complete Exhaust Emissions System Cleaner
4.716 reviews
-
Hi-Gear HG3270s EZ Emissions Pass and Catalytic Converter Cleaner
4.0181 reviews
| Cataclean 120007 | DURA LUBE Severe Catalytic and Exhaust Treatment | Motorkote Catalytic and Exhaust Treatment | Rislone Cat Complete Exhaust Emissions System Cleaner | Hi-Gear HG3270s EZ Emissions Pass and Catalytic Converter Cleaner |
|
Best |
Editors |
|
|
|
|
4.1
3,268 reviews |
4.1
600 reviews |
4.1
354 reviews |
4.7
16 reviews |
4.0
181 reviews |
 Check price |
Check price |
Check price |
Check price |
Check price |
Top 10 best catalytic converter cleaners
Cataclean 120007
Check the current price-
PROS
-
Safe for diesel, gasoline, and hybrid engines
-
Reduces emissions by 50% and improves overall vehicle engine performance including catalytic converters.
-
Compliance with various regulations
-
-
CONS
-
Not compatible with 2-stroke, mixed oil or gas engines
-
3,268 reviews
If you are looking for a high-quality exhaust system cleaner, Cataclean 120007 is a good choice. Although the price is slightly higher, it is a very effective cleaning agent for the entire vehicle system.
Cataclean can reduce the carbon footprint of a vehicle by up to 50%. That is a major impact. It does this by removing deposits from catalytic converters, cylinder heads, oxygen sensors, and even fuel injectors. Therefore, it is a solution to all the problems related to the engine, so it is one of the best catalyst cleaners.
Will the car encounter problems such as reduced performance, increased fuel consumption in short distances, and difficulty in idling? With Cataclean, you can enjoy improved engine performance, higher fuel efficiency, and lower emissions.
Another great benefit of Cataclean is that it is legal in more than 50 states. In addition, it also complies with VOC and OTC regulations and federal low-sulfur requirements.
DURA LUBE Severe Catalytic and Exhaust Treatment
-
PROS
-
Improve fuel efficiency and prevent fouling.
-
Reduce exhaust emissions.
-
Save catalyst by retaining phosphorus and zinc.
-
-
CONS
-
It may not work for all cars
-
600 reviews
If you are looking for one of the best catalytic converter cleaners, DURA LUBE Catalytic Cleaner is a good choice. Protect your catalyst from oil toxins. This includes dirt that accumulates on the jacks and increases discharge.
This is not all. DURA LUBE Severe Catalytic Converter Cleaner can also reduce the amount of zinc and phosphorus retained at the entrance of the catalytic converter.
These residues can cause blockages and reduce the performance of the inverter.
DURA LUBE Catalytic Cleaner can prevent and eliminate OBD fault codes that reflect vehicle converter failure. The best catalyst cleaner is the shelf life of the solution. One bottle of DURA LUBE cleaner is enough for 5000 miles or 3 months. In addition, it is common to all types of engines. Therefore, you can use it for diesel, gasoline, and other ethanol fuels.
Motorkote Catalytic and Exhaust Treatment
-
PROS
-
Protects and cleans catalytic converter
-
Protects catalytic system from oil poisons
-
Reduces phosphorus and zinc retention levels at catalyst inlet
-
-
CONS
-
Not for diesel fuel engines
-
354 reviews
The MotorKote 16oz emission and catalyst cleaner was developed to protect and clean the catalyst and exhaust system from oil poisoning. This will help reduce the carbon footprint of the vehicle and improve overall performance. Improve fuel efficiency and protect the converter.
Suggested use: Add a full 16-gallon fuel tank or 1 ounce per gallon. Within 6 months or 7,000 miles, whichever comes first. This gasoline additive can be used safely with any gasoline. Use the engine, all catalytic converters, and oxygen sensors as instructed. Help you pass the emission test.
Rislone Cat Complete Exhaust Emissions System Cleaner
-
PROS
-
Increase power, performance, mileage and save gas
-
Save on expensive fuel system and emission control repairs
-
Works on all fuel injected, direct-injected, carbureted, and turbo engines
-
-
CONS
-
Excessive use may cause problems to the engine. Always follow instructions.
-
16 reviews
As one of the best catalytic converter cleaners, the Rislone cat cleaner improves performance, productivity, mileage, and saves fuel-not only clean the entire exhaust system, but also clean the fuel system. It is suitable for gasoline, ethanol, and hybrid vehicles.
Fuel, exhaust, and exhaust systems are kept clean and prevent CEL. This will not invalidate the manufacturer’s new car guarantee-it is specially designed and can be safely used in vehicles with lambda sensors and catalytic converters. Exceed EPA requirements and EcoBoost engine. Clean fuel and exhaust system can reduce excessive emissions of hydrocarbons, carbon monoxide, and nitrogen oxides in the exhaust gas and save gas.
Hi-Gear HG3270s EZ Emissions Pass and Catalytic Converter Cleaner
-
PROS
-
Cleans fuel system, injectors, combustion chamber, pistons, and valves
-
Restores lost horsepower and increase fuel efficiency
-
Prevents rotten egg smell
-
-
CONS
-
A bit pricey compared to its closest competitors.
-
181 reviews
Hi-Gear Products’ close cooperation with leading additive manufacturers and OEMs enables Hi-Gear to take advantage of the latest technologies currently available on the market. Each product is designed to meet precise specifications and exceeds market standards in terms of dosage concentration and overall performance.
Hi-Gear HG3270s fuel additives help maximize fuel efficiency, reduce starting difficulties, restore lost acceleration and reduce severe idling.
Hi-Gear catalyst and fuel system cleaner is a professional exhaust gas and fuel system cleaner. This product can effectively clean the combustion chamber, oxygen sensor, and EGR valve. The use of high-speed catalysts and fuel system cleaners can improve performance and improve fuel economy, thereby improving vehicle performance. Can handle 17 to 20 gallons.
Liqui Moly 8931 Catalytic-System Cleaner
-
PROS
-
A special combination of additives for cleaning and
-
Removal of sediments and typical impurities in the intake system and combustion
-
Popular and reputable brand
-
-
CONS
-
Excessive use may cause engine trouble.
-
71 reviews
A special active solvent, combined with high-tech additives, can remove impurities and typical deposits in the intake and combustion systems. The high cleaning effect ensures that the catalytic converter is clean and reduces exhaust emissions.
Loosen and remove deposits and impurities such as oil, resin, adhesive residue, etc. Intake and combustion systems Improve the reliability of gasoline engines and catalyst systems. Remove the destructive impurities and deposits in the throttle and intake valve, combustion chamber, and catalyst system area to smoothly run the engine and increase exhaust emissions.
It is recommended to use a cleaning agent during each inspection to avoid a large amount of accumulation. It can also be used as a high-emission troubleshooting tool. · Normalize the consumption of gasoline and exhaust gas. Clean effect with good emission value, rapid cleaning, and reduction of pollutant emissions.
Red Line (60103) Complete SI-1 Fuel System Cleaner
-
PROS
-
For cleaning & preventing corrosion in fuel systems
-
Gas treatment that enhances gasoline stability
-
Reduce the build-up of gum and varnish formation
-
-
CONS
-
Might be difficult to fill into some gas tanks especially for older vehicles
-
2,885 reviews
Redline SI-1 is a powerful cleaner used to concentrate fuel systems. When there is no obvious carbon deposit, a single treatment can increase the efficiency by nearly 100%. The development of this formula reduces the octane requirement to two points. It can be used continuously and is safe, so it is an ideal choice for regular vehicle maintenance.
A small jar for each gas bottle is an effective cleaning agent that removes dirt and debris. The car’s catalytic converter and fuel system are integrated. Another great advantage of this product is that the synthetic lubricant in the formulation can cover the top cylinder. This will help your engine run more smoothly.
As part of a regular maintenance program, the product protects the intake manifold and throttle body from carbon deposits and reduces wear on engine parts. If your old car has a ping engine, you will find that this product also helps to solve this problem. This is a short sealing head, which may make it difficult to fill some gas tanks. However, this mainly applies to large trucks and SUVs, so it should be no problem for small vehicles. The funnel can also help prevent liquid leakage.
Boost Up Vehicle Engine Catalytic Converter Cleaner
-
PROS
-
Lowers emission and engine protection
-
Reduces fuel consumption and improves engine performance
-
Cleans other parts like the oxygen sensor, the fuel injectors, cylinder heads, and others.
-
-
CONS
-
A bit pricey compared to its closest competitors
-
3 reviews
Use Boost Up catalyst cleaner to clean the converter thoroughly without removing it! Stop the terrible engine maintenance indicator flashing on the screen and improve engine performance. Exhaust gas flow makes the engine run cleaner, quieter and better, which also reduces maintenance costs. Reduced consumption and improved performance.
While reducing fuel consumption, it can clean the fuel injection system and cylinders and improve overall performance for the entire system. It can also clean other components, such as oxygen sensors, fuel injectors, cylinder heads, etc.
Easy to clean: just fill up the tank. Automobile, hybrid, and flexible car insurance; no fuel change is not applicable to two-stroke engines or engines that use gasoline blends.
Berryman Products 0117 B-12
-
PROS
-
Contains 100% high-energy solvent technology
-
Help keep injectors, carburetors, intake ports, and valves clean
-
Quickly dissolves gum, varnish, and other fuel residues
-
Disperses moisture in conventional gasoline
-
-
CONS
-
Eye irritant, use with PPE like gloves and googles
-
575 reviews
Berryman B12 is an advanced fuel system cleaner using 100% high-energy solvent technology. It is designed to keep the carburetor, fuel injector, automatic throttle, air intake, throttle body, and valves clean. The engine does not loosen fuel deposits, including tar and paint. It can also dry quickly without leaving any residue.
After the first treatment, you will find that the driving behavior and fuel economy of the vehicle have been significantly improved. For problems such as acceleration loss, you can use this product on ATV, UTV, street motorcycles, ATV, snowmobiles, and marine equipment.
The downside is that this is a very powerful formula that can irritate the eyes and skin. After opening the bottle, strong vapor will enter the bottle. Therefore, it is safer to keep the bottle away from your face and wear protective equipment (such as gloves, goggles, or a full face mask) when handling the bottle. Oxygen sensor.
Royal Purple Max-Clean Fuel System Cleaner and Stabilizer
-
PROS
-
Improves fuel economy an average of 3.2 percent
-
Increases horsepower an average of 2.6 percent
-
Reduces hydrocarbon, NOx, and CO emissions (on average 12, 13, and 18-percent respectively)
-
-
CONS
-
May not be suitable to use in other specific vehicles (seel list on the product label)
-
1,760 reviews
Max-Clean is the most advanced fuel system treatment technology, which can clean the injectors, restore fuel consumption and reduce engine fouling and exhaust emissions. The patented Max-Clean technology focuses on the intake system and combustion chamber. And it is effective for all new, old, gasoline or diesel, naturally aspirated engines, turbochargers, or compressor street engines.
This treatment can increase fuel consumption by an average of 3.2% and performance by an average of 2.6%. Reduce the emissions of hydrocarbons, NOx, and CO (12%, 13%, and 18% on average respectively). Prevent the engine from idling, hesitating, and stalling. Prevent the spark plug from clogging prematurely. Reduce sediment vibration and engine noise.
The accumulation of deposits is a natural result of fuel combustion. Unfortunately, these deposits can have a major impact. Royal Purple developed Max-Clean, which in most cases can clean the surface of the engine like new, restoring the previously lost fuel economy and performance. If you are looking for the best catalytic converter cleaner, look no other than Royal Purple.
Frequently Asked Questions about Catalytic Converter Cleaners
Is it effective?
Obviously, people are skeptical. Suspicious “cleaners” are everywhere on gas station shelves, auto parts stores, and truck parking lots. Most of them are nothing more than automatic placebos. This does not apply to catalyst cleaners. They perform useful functions and are essential tools for car owners.
Where can I buy a catalytic converter cleaner?
You can buy cleaning products wherever you buy other auto parts. In auto parts stores, department stores, convenience stores, and gas stations. Your mechanic can even sell the item.
How to clean the catalytic converter?
Good news. You don’t have to be a mechanic to clean the catalytic converter. The cleaner we will review here is easy to use. Follow the instructions on the gas cylinder to clean the cleaner in the gas tank. The vacuum cleaner works while driving.
Which converter cleaner is the best?
It is up to each driver to decide. However, we tested some of the most popular cleaning products. And consider each of them so that you can make an informed decision.
Catalytic converter cleaners and fuel injection problems
There have always been a variety of methods to clean catalytic converters that have become clogged or burned from the inside. Some results have proven to be satisfactory, while others have been questioned by automotive experts. The process of maintaining a good catalytic converter relies on preventative maintenance and avoiding excessive build-up as a priority from the start. Similarly, the ways to clean fuel injectors are subject to different opinions.
Make adjustments for better catalytic converter performance
Catalytic converters become clogged with a build-up of hydrocarbons inside that usually results from overly rich fuel mixtures causing cylinder failure. The best way to prevent or lessen future build-ups requires a complete adjustment to ensure that all cylinders have adequate spark without leakage. Going ahead in time and replacing the spark plugs with a “hotter” range will induce more heat in the catalytic converter, burning excess deposits without combustion.
Driver habits for catalytic converters
Short city trips of the vehicle, in which the engine has not reached high temperatures, and therefore the catalytic converter will not be able to heat enough to burn (and clean) the honeycomb converter system. Many cold starts and idling can fill a catalytic converter prematurely, especially in cold weather. To keep the catalytic converter clean and warm, the vehicle should run at highway speeds for extended periods at regular intervals.
Air wash and high pressure
You can remove the catalytic converter from the exhaust system and check inside for excessive carbon and soot build-up. A catalytic converter that sounds like a rattle when shaken has particles of matter that fill the inside of the housing. A high-pressure wash in the inlet and outlet pipes of the converter can remove some of this residue. The converter should be allowed to dry completely or be treated with a high-pressure air hose.
Citric Acid Cleaners for Catalytic Converter
Scientists at the Institute of Catalysis and Petrochemicals in Madrid, Spain, have discovered that a dilute citric acid solution can successfully wash off buildup from the converter without damaging the platinum material within. The process requires an immersion bath of the converter in the solution for a period of eight or more hours, and then a complete drying. It should be noted that this procedure has not been fully implemented as a legitimate or recognized solution for public use.
Fuel injection additives
Additives in fuel are the best preventive maintenance measure, preferable to a subsequent measure for a stuck injector. They must be used from the first stage of the vehicle’s life, and in accordance with the instructions relevant to the frequency of use. If you are considering using fuel additives for cleaning, you should always go for high-quality products with the best test results.
Pressurized fuel injector flush
A shop that has the equipment can connect your vehicle to a pressurized cleaning device designed for fuel injectors. Typically the fuel tank hose must be sealed, so that only cleaning fluid and fuel can enter the high-pressure injection channels. The process involves adding a strong detergent to the fuel to break up any varnish or carbon build-up on the lines and injector heads. The problem with this procedure is that you must use a cleaner strong enough and at enough pressure to break up the heaviest deposits, which may not be possible on heavily clogged lines and injector heads.
Catalytic Converter Cleaner Benefits
Lower emissions. Modern catalytic converters work relatively well at minimizing the number of harmful gases emitted by automobile engines. Adding a catalyst cleaner to the mixture can further reduce engine emissions.
Better engine performance. Have you noticed that the engine performance has dropped? This may be due to the role of the catalyst. Regular use of catalyst cleaner will help clean the fuel injection system and cylinder, improve overall performance, and reduce fuel consumption.
To save money. Better engine performance has another benefit: You can save money by reducing fuel and maintenance costs. In addition, you don’t have to spend a lot of money to replace the catalytic converter.
Reduce unpleasant odors. Due to accumulation in the catalytic converter, some vehicles may produce unpleasant odors over time. If your car has a noticeable smell of rotten eggs, you can use a catalyst cleaner.
Protect your engine. Cleaning the catalytic converter regularly has another major advantage: it protects the engine from damage. The correct fuel and exhaust flow will make your engine run cleaner, smoother and better, while also reducing maintenance costs.
Performing an emission test If you have an old car and are ready to perform an emission test, cleaning the catalytic converter can help the Formula remove dirt, soot, and other carbon deposits from the fuel system and produce cleaner emissions.
Additional key features
Engine compatibility. For traditional gasoline engines, almost all catalyst cleaners are suitable for your vehicle. However, if you are driving a diesel or hybrid car, please check whether the engine is compatible with the relevant cleaning agent. This type of dedicated engine is required.
Complete system cleaning. The best formula can clean the entire exhaust system, not just the catalytic converter. Since every part of the exhaust system is an integral part of the work of the entire system, your catalyst cleaner should flush everything out. Because of this, everything will work consistently.
Multi-pack options. Although the catalyst cleaner is not that expensive, you still need a substantial discount. Options with multiple software packages are available here. They are particularly useful because you need to use catalytic converter cleaners in the daily maintenance of your vehicle, which ultimately saves you money.
Conclusion
A high-quality catalyst is not only important but also important for reducing vehicle emissions. However, they are usually ineffective due to carbon deposits.
Using an effective catalyst cleaner can help you solve this problem every time. They are smart, effectively reducing emissions and improving the overall performance of the vehicle. However, they may not be used with clogged catalysts. Lastly, failure to maintain your catalytic converter properly may result in a broken catalytic converter that could result in a more expensive maintenance and repair cost.
