242
SERVICING AND MAINTENANCE
(Continued)
Under normal operating conditions, the
catalytic converter will not require
maintenance. However, it is important to keep
the engine properly tuned to ensure proper
catalyst operation and prevent possible catalyst
damage.
NOTE:
Intentional tampering with emissions control
systems can result in civil penalties being
assessed against you.
In unusual situations involving grossly
malfunctioning engine operation, a scorching
odor may suggest severe and abnormal catalyst
overheating. If this occurs, stop the vehicle, turn
off the engine and allow it to cool. Service,
including a tune-up to manufacturer's
specifications, should be obtained immediately.
To minimize the possibility of catalytic converter
damage:
Do not shut off the engine or interrupt the
ignition when the transmission is in gear and
the vehicle is in motion.
Do not try to start the engine by pushing or
towing the vehicle.
Do not idle the engine with any spark plug
wires disconnected or removed, such as
when diagnostic testing, or for prolonged
periods during very rough idle or malfunc
-
tioning operating conditions.
NOTE:
Your vehicle’s exhaust system may be equipped
with an Electronic Exhaust Valve (EEV) system,
if the exhaust system is replaced with after
-
market products a Malfunction Indicator Lamp
(MIL) will illuminate.
WARNING!
Exhaust gases can injure or kill. They
contain carbon monoxide (CO), which is
colorless and odorless. Breathing it can
make you unconscious and can eventually
poison you. To avoid breathing CO
A hot exhaust system can start a fire if you
park over materials that can burn. Such
materials might be grass or leaves coming
into contact with your exhaust system. Do
not park or operate your vehicle in areas
where your exhaust system can contact
anything that can burn.
CAUTION!
The catalytic converter requires the use of
unleaded fuel only. Leaded gasoline will
destroy the effectiveness of the catalyst as
an emissions control device and may seri
-
ously reduce engine performance and
cause serious damage to the engine.
Damage to the catalytic converter can result
if your vehicle is not kept in proper operating
condition. In the event of engine malfunc
-
tion, particularly involving engine misfire or
other apparent loss of performance, have
your vehicle serviced promptly. Continued
operation of your vehicle with a severe
malfunction could cause the converter to
overheat, resulting in possible damage to
the converter and vehicle.
CAUTION!
(Continued)
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