Does Oil Consumption Increase After Catalyst Removal?
Myth or Reality?
Forums are full of advice on how to avoid increased oil consumption after catalyst removal (they recommend switching to a specific brand) or claims that 1 liter per 1,000 km consumption is normal after removal.
Where Do These Myths Come From?
The catalyst creates backpressure, and when removed, it no longer creates it (logically) and so it's believed that due to reduced backpressure, oil consumption begins.
Though there's not even a minimal connection here.
"But backpressure was there, now it's not, shouldn't this affect something?"
Only that power will increase.
In very simple terms, the engine spends energy to push air through the catalyst, and if it's not there, it doesn't spend that energy – there's your power gain.
"Where do all these stories come from about oil consumption increasing after cat removal? Made up?"
Well, not exactly, more like coincidences.
Typical Scenario:
- Car already has a clogged catalyst
- Catalyst particles entered cylinders (scoring begins to form)
- Owner ignores error codes and keeps driving
- Car "doesn't pull", responds poorly to throttle, high fuel consumption
- Finally forced to remove catalyst
- Owner starts driving hard out of joy
- Those same particles that have been in cylinders for a while make themselves known
- Engine starts consuming oil
Why Does This Happen?
Not because cats were removed, but because scoring progressed to a new stage.
Therefore, removed cats and oil consumption – a coincidence and nothing more.
Our Recommendations
✅ If Catalysts Are Clogged:
Under no circumstances delay their replacement!
✅ If You Can't Afford Replacement:
Don't be afraid to remove them – if there are no catalyst particles in cylinders, oil consumption won't start.
Conclusions
- Catalyst removal does NOT cause oil consumption
- Reduced backpressure only affects power (positively)
- Oil consumption after removal is a consequence of a neglected clogged catalyst
- Catalyst particles in cylinders = scoring = oil consumption
- Timely removal of a clogged catalyst prevents serious problems
Don't believe myths – trust facts and professional diagnostics!