It's been a hot topic for Audi B8 S4 owners since 2010, and it's still an issue in 2023: the melting of catalytic converters. If you're a proud owner of this luxury sports sedan, you may have experienced this problem or heard about it. In this article, we will discuss what causes the melting of cats, its consequences, and what you can do about it.
What Causes Catalytic Converters to Melt?
First things first: what are catalytic converters and why do they matter? Catalytic converters, or "cats," are part of your car's exhaust system that helps reduce harmful emissions. They contain precious metals like platinum, palladium, and rhodium, which act as catalysts to convert toxic gases into less harmful ones.
Now, back to the melting issue. The B8 S4's cats are located near the engine, which exposes them to high temperatures. However, the main culprit behind the melting is the use of aftermarket downpipes. These downpipes, which replace the stock ones, are wider and allow for better exhaust flow, which can increase horsepower and torque. However, they also generate more heat, which can cause the cats to overheat and melt.
Consequences of Melted Cats
If your cats melt, you may experience a loss of power and performance, as well as increased emissions. You may also notice a foul smell coming from your exhaust. Driving with melted cats can also damage your engine, as the melted material can clog your exhaust system and cause backpressure, which can lead to engine failure if not addressed promptly.
What Can You Do About It?
If you want to prevent your cats from melting, the best solution is to avoid aftermarket downpipes altogether. Stick to the stock ones, or get high-flow cats that are specifically designed for the B8 S4. These cats are made with better materials and are more resistant to heat, so they are less likely to melt. They may also be more expensive, but they are worth the investment if you want to protect your car's performance and longevity.
If your cats have already melted, you will need to replace them. This can be a costly repair, as the cats are expensive and labor-intensive to replace. You may also need to replace other parts of your exhaust system that have been damaged by the melted material. Again, it's best to address this issue as soon as possible to avoid further damage to your engine.
Conclusion
In summary, the melting of catalytic converters is a common issue for Audi B8 S4 owners, especially those who use aftermarket downpipes. This can lead to loss of power, increased emissions, and engine damage if not addressed promptly. To prevent this from happening, stick to the stock downpipes or invest in high-flow cats that are designed for your car. If your cats have already melted, get them replaced as soon as possible to avoid further damage to your engine.
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