Yes, removing your catalytic converter can increase horsepower, but it comes with serious drawbacks. While it may slightly improve exhaust flow, it can also cause legal issues, environmental harm, and engine problems.
How Does Removing a Catalytic Converter Affect Horsepower?
✅ Potential Power Gains
✔ Improved Exhaust Flow: A catalytic converter restricts exhaust gases. Removing it reduces backpressure, potentially increasing horsepower by 5-15 HP in some vehicles.
✔ Faster Throttle Response: With less restriction, the engine may feel more responsive.
❌ Downsides of Removing a Catalytic Converter
⚠ Check Engine Light: Modern cars rely on the catalytic converter for emissions monitoring. Removing it will trigger warning lights.
⚠ Worse Fuel Economy: Some vehicles may run richer (use more fuel) without a proper exhaust balance.
⚠ Legal Issues: In many countries and states, removing a catalytic converter is illegal due to emissions regulations.
⚠ Increased Pollution: Without a catalytic converter, your car will release more toxic emissions.
⚠ Unpleasant Exhaust Smell & Noise: Your exhaust will be louder and produce stronger gasoline odors.
Better Alternatives to Cutting the Catalytic Converter
🚗 High-Flow Catalytic Converters – Offer better exhaust flow while maintaining emissions control.
🚗 Performance Exhaust Systems – Upgrading your headers, mid-pipe, and mufflers can boost HP without removing the catalytic converter.
🚗 ECU Tuning – Optimizing air-fuel ratios can improve horsepower legally.
Conclusion
While removing your catalytic converter can slightly increase horsepower, it’s not worth the risks. It’s illegal in many areas, causes check engine lights, worsens emissions, and may negatively impact fuel efficiency. Instead, consider high-flow catalytic converters or a proper performance tune.
FAQs
Q: How much horsepower do you gain by removing a catalytic converter?
A: Typically 5-15 HP, depending on the vehicle and engine type.
Q: Will my car be louder without a catalytic converter?
A: Yes, removing it will make your exhaust significantly louder.
Q: Can I replace my catalytic converter with a straight pipe?
A: Yes, but it may be illegal and trigger engine warning lights.
Q: Is a high-flow catalytic converter a better option?
A: Yes, it reduces restrictions while keeping emissions within legal limits.
Also Check:
• Does a Bad Catalytic Converter Affect the Engine?
• Does the Catalytic Converter Affect Sound?
