STARTING AND DRIVING
301
Catalytic converters
The purpose of the catalytic converters is to
purify exhaust gases. They are located close to
the engine so that operating temperature is
reached quickly.
The catalytic converters consist of a monolith
(ceramic or metal) with channels. The channel
walls are lined with a thin layer of platinum/
rhodium/palladium. These metals act as cata-
lysts, i.e. they participate in and accelerate a
chemical reaction without being used up them-
selves.
Lambda-sondTM oxygen sensor
The Lambda-sond is part of a control system
intended to reduce emissions and improve fuel
economy. For more information, see Fuel con-
sumption and CO2 emissions (p. 398).
An oxygen sensor monitors the oxygen content
of the exhaust gases leaving the engine. This
value is fed into an electronic system that contin-
uously controls the injectors. The ratio of fuel to
air directed to the engine is continuously
adjusted. These adjustments create optimal con-
ditions for efficient combustion, and together with
the three-way catalytic converter reduce harmful
emissions (hydrocarbons, carbon monoxide and
nitrous oxides).
Related information
•Economical driving (p. 302)
•Fuel - petrol (p. 299)
•Fuel - diesel (p. 300) Filling with fuel - with a fuel can
When filling with fuel (p. 298) from a fuel can,
use the funnel located under the floor hatch in
the cargo area.
IMPORTANT
Statutory provisions relating to storage of
reserve fuel cans in cars vary from country to
country. Check what does apply.
Take care to insert the funnel properly into the
filler pipe. The filler pipe consists of two opening
flaps. The funnel must be pushed past both flaps
before filling is started.
Related information
•Locking/unlocking - fuel filler flap (p. 178)
•Fuel filler flap - manual opening (p. 297)
