The catalytic converter in your Mercedes-Benz model plays an important role. Think of it as a special type of filter for your vehicle's exhaust system. It's responsible for reducing the harmful emissions produced by an internal combustion engine.

How a Catalytic Converter Works

The catalytic converter, or "cat" as some call them, is bolted to the underside of your vehicle, where it sits between the exhaust manifold and the muffler. It contains precious metals such as palladium, rhodium, and platinum. Those metals convert the harmful gases into oxygen, nitrogen, carbon dioxide, and water vapors. Nitrogen remains trapped, while carbon dioxide, water vapors, and oxygen are free to be released through the exhaust pipe and into the atmosphere.

How to Spot Catalytic Converter Problems

Even a high quality catalytic converter can fail. Or perhaps thieves have damaged yours when trying to steal it for the valuable metals it contains. Either way, federal law requires that your vehicle treat those harmful emissions -- so it's important to know the signs of trouble in order to act quickly and resolve the problem. They include:

Genuine OEM Catalytic Converters are Your Best Choice

When you do need to replace your vehicle's cat, get the right one. That means buying the catalytic converter your manufacturer designed specifically for your model, since it's sure to fit right into place with minimal effort. Find yours right here in our online auto parts catalog, in stock and ready to ship. Buy now and you'll be done with the project in no time at all!