8-3
Driving tips/Catalytic converter
Catalytic converter
firing or incomplete combustion), have
exhaust fumes are entering the
your vehicle checked and repaired by an
vehicle, have t he probl em
authorized SUBARU dealer.
checked and corrected as soon
as possible. If you must drive
. Do not apply undercoating or rust
under these conditions, drive
prevention treatment to the heat shield of
only with all windows fully open.
catalytic converter and the exhaust sys-
tem.
. Keep the trunk lid (4-door) or rear
. Do not drive with an extremely low fuel
gate (5-door) closed while driving
level.
to prevent exhaust gas from
entering the vehicle.
WARNING
NOTE
. Avoid fire hazards. Do not drive
or park the vehicle anywhere
Due to the expansion and contraction
near flammable materials (e.g.,
of the metals used in the manufacture
grass, paper, rags or leaves),
of the exhaust system, you may hear a
The catalytic converter is installed in the
because the catalytic converter
crackling sound coming from the ex-
exhaust system. It serves as a catalyst to
operates at very high tempera-
haust system for a short time after the
reduce HC, CO and NOx in exhaust
tures.
engine has been shut off. This sound is
gases, thus providing cleaner exhaust.
. Keep everyone and flammable
normal.
To avoid damage to the catalytic conver-
materials away from the exhaust
ter:
pipe while the engine is running.
The exhaust gas is very hot.
. Use only unleaded fuel. Even a small
amount of leaded fuel will damage the
catalytic converter.
. Never start the engine by pushing or
pulling the vehicle.
. Avoid racing the engine.
. Never turn off the ignition switch while
the vehicle is moving.
. Keep your engine tuned-up. If you feel
the engine running rough (misfiring, back-
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