FIELD: mechanical engineering; internal combustion engines. SUBSTANCE: in proposed method of checking operation of catalytic converter of exhaust gases temperature is measured in at least two sections of exhaust system arranged at a distance from each other by means of temperature probes and results are evaluated by electronic control unit. Temperature is measured integrally, and temperature probes are made either flat or linear, with catalytic converter placed in between. Catalytic converter is made partially heated. Exothermic reaction at catalytic conversion of harmful substances in exhaust gases at correct operation of system creates definite temperature difference between both points of measurement which can be control unit can be judged by sign and/or engine and/or electronic control unit can be judged by sign and/or absolute value and/or time characteristic of temperature difference. EFFECT: improved checking of converter operation. 21 cl, 5 dwg
