Operation of vehicles with a catalytic converter (BMW 3 Series E36)

To avoid damage to the lambda probe and catalytic converter, it is essential to follow these instructions:

Petrol engines

Use unleaded petrol only.

When installing the catalytic converter later, fill up with unleaded fuel at least twice before installing it. In addition, on engines that require super gasoline, the ignition should be set to a later time, since unleaded super gasoline has an octane rating of only 95. How many degrees to set the ignition depends on the model.

It is forbidden to start a hot engine by towing or "push starting". Unburned fuel would cause overheating when ignited in the catalytic converter. If the battery is discharged, do not start the engine from the battery of another car.

If ignition problems occur, remove the connector of the main injection system relay or the fuel pump relay until the cause is determined. This prevents fuel injection when starting the engine. The fuel pump relay is located in the relay box on the left side of the engine compartment.

Do not check for spark with the spark plug caps removed.

Comparison of cylinders cannot be performed (balance test) by turning off the ignition of one of the cylinders. When turning off the ignition of one of the cylinders - even with the help of an engine tester - unburned fuel gets into the catalytic converter.

If ignition failures occur, avoid running the engine at high speeds and immediately eliminate the malfunction.

Install only spark plugs recommended for vehicles with a catalytic converter.

Petrol and diesel engines

Do not park the car on dry grass or leaves. The muffler in the area of the catalytic converter is very hot and continues to emit heat even after the engine has stopped.