Rules for operating vehicles with catalytic converters (BMW 7 Series E32)

To avoid damage to the lambda probes and catalytic converter, it is important to follow these instructions.

Petrol engines

Be sure to use unleaded gasoline only.

Starting a warm engine by accelerating or towing is not allowed. Use only auxiliary cables and an additional battery. Unburned fuel during ignition can lead to overheating of the catalytic converter and its failure.

If starting is difficult, do not turn on the starter for a long time. When the starter is running, fuel is injected. Find the cause of the difficult starting and eliminate it.

Do not drive until the fuel tank is completely empty.

If misfiring occurs, avoid high engine speeds and correct the problem as soon as possible.

Use only spark plugs specified in the manual.

Do not perform a spark test with the spark plug leads removed.

Unscrew the nuts in the area of the catalytic converter on the bottom and remove the cross member.

Comparison of cylinder performance is not permitted (checking their balance) by disconnecting the spark plugs of individual cylinders. When a cylinder is disconnected in this way, unburned fuel enters the catalytic converter.

Petrol and diesel engines

Do not park the vehicle over dry grass or leaves. The exhaust system in the area of the catalytic converter is very hot and continues to radiate heat even after the engine is turned off.

Support the exhaust system with a floor jack and a suitable support, such as a wooden one. The system weighs between 35 and 45 kg.

Do not coat exhaust pipes with underbody protector.



Do not change the position of the exhaust system heat shields.

When adding engine oil, make sure that you never overfill it above the maximum mark on the dipstick. Otherwise, excess oil will get into the catalytic converter due to incomplete combustion and can damage the precious metal and disable the catalytic converter.