Jump directly to the content

A MOTORS expert has warned all drivers should be cleaning a crucial vehicle component to keep safe on the roads.

While tests like checking oil and water are common, this device also needs be to inspected and cleaned regularly, car whizz Kayla Keena says.

A motors expert has revealed one lesser-known task every driver should be ticking off
4
A motors expert has revealed one lesser-known task every driver should be ticking off
Most motorists open the bonnet every now and then to check up on things, but one test is too often forgotten about, Kayla Keena says
4
Most motorists open the bonnet every now and then to check up on things, but one test is too often forgotten about, Kayla Keena saysCredit: Getty

Kayla explained that a responsible motorist needs to keep all components of their car in mind, since they all work together to create a smooth ride.

Some of them, she warns, get dirty quickly - and it can cause damage down the track.

One of these is the catalytic converter, a device which reduces the amount of harmful pollutants coming out of your exhaust.

It does this by cleaning exhaust gasses before they fly out the pipe, using a chemical reaction to convert toxic gases to carbon dioxide and water vapour.

Read more Motors news

According to the , catalytic converters, or "cats", typically come with a long lifespan.

But they're important to check, because repairing a faulty one is expensive.

Kayla says while it's easy to forget about the cat, drivers should start remembering to keep it clean.

She wrote for : "This car part is one of the main components in your exhaust system, and it helps filter harmful pollutants out of your exhaust so that your emissions are safe.

"Over time, those pollutants, dust, and debris can stack up, clogging your exhaust system if you’re not careful.

"The biggest exhaust system maintenance tip you should know is that you need to regularly clean your catalytic converter."

How 10-minute 'chop and change' trick can make your air con more effective

A clogged-up cat can cause overheating, contamination and physical damage, the RAC says.

If the exhaust system isn't free-flowing, less air will get into the engine - meaning reduced efficiency.

Cleaning the cat is another task to add to the checklist - but luckily, Kayla says it's a very simple one.

She adds: "All you need to do is add a cleaner to your gas tank and let it go through your exhaust system, loosening the clog in the converter and getting everything back into proper working order."

If you drive a modern car, it's likely a red light will flash on the dashboard diagnostics if the cat is compromised.

Otherwise, RAC has a list of symptoms indicating a faulty cat.

They include: sluggish engine performance, reduced acceleration, dark exhaust smoke, the smell of sulphur or rotten eggs from the exhaust and excessive heat under the vehicle.

Expert reveals why cleaning 'hidden door part' is vital

By Jon Rogers

A MOTORS expert has revealed how to cut down on noise and have a smoother ride simply by cleaning this door feature – and all it takes is soap and water.

When it comes to keeping your door seals nice and clean, all you need is some mild soap and water, Kayla Keena says.

Just by using that you can wash away any accumulated dirt and debris and “breathe new life into your car door seals”.

And a mild cleaning detergent will only cost pennies and last for ages.

Many motorists may overlook the importance of cleaning their door seals and tend to forget about them.

But as Kayla points out they are an important part of keeping your car temperature “comfortable at all times of the year”.

The 'cat' is vital for the car's exhaust system and should be cleaned regularly, Kayla warned
4
The 'cat' is vital for the car's exhaust system and should be cleaned regularly, Kayla warnedCredit: Getty - Contributor
Drivers shouldn't need to fork out many pounds to keep their car clean and could save mechanical bills down the track
4
Drivers shouldn't need to fork out many pounds to keep their car clean and could save mechanical bills down the trackCredit: Getty
Topics