Auto Parts: Honda CRV catalytic converter, octane 95, honda crv

Question
Hi mike,i have just bought  a Honda crv 2003, 86,000 km, and although I have no warning lights coming on, and it supposedly all checks out it smells of sulfur just about every time we go out for a run mainly at the start of the journey.It has been suggested that it is the catalytic converter,and the cause is the fuel although I use a well known brand of 91 octane here in New Zealand. The further suggestion was to use a higher octane 95 although the manual specifically warns against this saying it will cause damage to the unit, have you had any problems like this over there,I would appreciate any comments,regards Richard

Answer
    As a rule that sulfur smell comes from the converter.  It doesn't necessarily mean that anything is wrong, though.  The sulfur content of fuel varies from one refiner to another, and is regulated by the government.  I don't know what the regulations are down there, so it is hard for me to say whether or not the smell could be regulated.  You could try using a different brand of fuel, and see if it makes a difference.  In small markets, which I'm sure yours would qualify as, different brands will frequently draw on the same supply.  In the U.S., anyway, there are no laws saying that Exxon gasoline, for instance, has to come from an Exxon tank or Exxon refinery.  The computer in your car will let you know when the converter fails.  I would suggest, though, that you put a large bottle of fuel injection cleaner in the tank and get the tune-up looked at.  Incomplete combustion can make the smell worse.