Maybe you’ve observed that your car isn’t running smoothly anymore. Your fuel efficiency seems to be less than typical. Even a bad stench coming from the exhaust could be detected. It is obvious because the check engine light is also on. It’s time to start planning the replacement of your catalytic converter right now. Cost is important because, depending on the make, the part alone can cost anywhere from under $100 to $2,000 or more.
You stay near the lower end of the range if your vehicle is an older model or a diesel. The north end can be reached by a more recent vehicle, such as a Toyota SUV. Fortunately, because less time is required, the labor cost is lower.
In This Article...
DIY or Get It Repaired?
The part itself accounts for the majority of the expense of replacing your catalytic converter. It is one of those things that could make the job unworkable. That may influence your decision to forego it and look at new car or used truck prices instead.
Usually, getting there doesn’t take much effort. The component is right there in plain view because it is situated between the exhaust manifold and the muffler. Usually, the repair takes less than an hour. Depending on how it’s attached to the vehicle, you can either do it or you can’t.
Many automakers will weld components into place. The catalytic converter replacement process will probably take longer if yours is OEM. To make the repair, the old one will need to be removed using a Sawzall. Where the rubber hits the road is there. If you have the necessary equipment and knowledge, you can complete the task and save yourself about $100 on labor.
A catalytic converter may be bolted into place on some cars. It now falls under the DIY category. The likelihood of the hardware being rusty increases the difficulty of the repair. Using penetrating oil, the job can be completed quickly. However, if a bolt breaks or you are unable to remove them, you are left at a loss and must return to the store.
Do You Have to Replace It?
You must understand what a catalytic converter is and how it functions in order to respond to this question.
The catalytic converter is cleverly designed. It’s not a big component. The efficiency of the system is increased by the inside walls’ honeycomb design, which expands the surface area that comes into touch with the hazardous emissions. They are extremely costly because they include valuable metals like platinum or unique oxidation catalysts.
This element is crucial to the exhaust system of your car. The combustion of fossil fuels like gasoline and diesel is a major contributor to the release of noxious gases and greenhouse gas emissions. Nearly 30% of the cost is related to transportation. The catalytic converter in your car uses the heated interior to change them into harmless compounds. The term comes from how quickly the reaction occurs at high temperatures.
In order to lessen air pollution, automakers began installing catalytic converters in automobiles in 1975. That alone is a strong argument for paying to have it corrected. But there are also some more pragmatic justifications for doing it.
Failure to do so puts your entire exhaust system in danger and could result in an insurance claim. Even though it happens infrequently, the soot and broken bits inside the device could start a fire. Your car must pass an emission test in some places. You won’t be able to lawfully drive your automobile until you have it replaced if it doesn’t.
Some may claim that a catalytic converter impairs the performance of their vehicle. Given that it adds a new link to the chain, the concept makes logical. The effect, though, is negligible. It probably won’t make much of a difference unless you drive a performance car. The alternative is to forego the OEM component and go for an aftermarket option.
Ironically, there are unintentional environmental effects associated with the manufacturing process. While catalytic converters reduce vehicle emissions, mining for the raw materials is a substantial source of pollution that has an impact on the environment and the local population.
Why Catalytic Converters Fail
The good news is that many automakers build this component to last the entire life of the car. The unfortunate fact is that nature and time can sometimes intervene. Frequently, an issue elsewhere in the engine is to blame. The device may overheat and start to degrade due to problems like coolant leaks or used spark plugs. When you start it, a strange noise is a surefire clue that it’s happening.
Additionally, if you just use your automobile for city driving, soot can accumulate inside the catalytic converter and hasten the same demise. The performance of the engine is hence one indication. To get the emissions through the exhaust system, it has to work harder. Potholes and other hazards can occasionally cause physical harm.
Thankfully, your check engine light will alert you as soon as something is wrong. However, it isn’t necessarily a sign that something is wrong with your catalytic converter. It can be something harmless like a loose fuel cap. Pull over right away and look for roadside help if it is flashing.
The Repair Process
A catalytic converter is simple to replace. One piece of specialist equipment, which costs under $20, is necessary for the process. What you’ll need is as follows:
- substitute catalytic converter
- Set of ratchets and sockets
- sensor socket for oxygen
- oil that penetrates
- Jack postures
Purchase the proper component for your vehicle’s make, model, and year. Instead of buying rebuilt, buy new. Place all four wheels of your car on the jack stands to begin. Before you start working on it, let the air circulate to cool off the components.
Track down the catalytic converter. The oxygen sensor and its connections must then be removed using the unique socket. Then, working from the back and moving forward, remove the bolts at the flanges using a ratchet. Do not pressure them. Spray penetrating oil on them as an alternative, and then give it some time to work. Give it one more go.
Then, all that remains is to replace the worn-out component with the new one. The oxygen sensor and its fittings should be changed. You’re ready to go once the catalytic converter is firmly installed.
As you can see, the fix is simple. The only things that make it more difficult and lengthen the catalytic converter replacement process are rusty bolts or a welded component. The task is easily manageable by a do-it-yourself mechanic.
When you’re finished, turn on your car to make sure the check engine light is off. It may indicate a damaged catalytic converter, but it may also indicate an issue with the oxygen sensor. Use a diagnostic scan tool to see if further repair is necessary. You might find it useful.
The catalytic converter in your car is crucial for minimizing the poisonous emissions that contribute to air pollution and climate change. Fortunately, there is a quick repair that won’t take much time. To catch any issues early before they worsen, pay attention to any odd sounds or odors coming from your car.
How much does a Kia Optima catalytic converter replacement cost?
Between $1,772 and $1,791 is the typical price range for a Kia Optima catalytic converter replacement. The cost of labor is expected to be between $72 and $91 while the cost of the parts is $1,700.
What is the cost of doing a catalytic converter replacement yourself?
The failure of a catalytic converter might result from various issues with a vehicle. Some problems could only be able to be found by experts after they inspect the car. Fixing those issues will be more expensive.
The average cost to replace a catalytic converter ranges from $1000 to $2500, depending on the quality of catalytic converter you choose and the type of car you drive. Should you replace your trash automobile instead of spending the money to repair it? Replacing a catalytic converter is useless if you believe your car has reached the end of its useful life; instead, you should think about selling your car for cash. The cash might be used as a down payment for a new vehicle.
Does it make sense to repair a catalytic converter?
Replace your catalytic converter as a last resort due to the expense involved. This is particularly true if your vehicle is really old, has a lot of miles on it, isn’t very reliable, and you reside in a state with strict smog regulations.
Before shelling out cash for a new catalytic converter, there are a few things you should try if yours isn’t actually broken. To begin with, have a mechanic rule out any further potential reasons of your symptoms by looking for items like:
- emissions leaks
- faulty oxygen sensor
- wiring issues
- Computer error codes unrelated to catalytic converters
- Is routine maintenance essential for proper engine operation?
Try the Italian tune-up first, followed by the catalytic converter cleaner, once all non-catalytic converter problems have been resolved. You will need to make a choice if these don’t work and you need to spend the money on a new catalytic converter. Here are some queries to consider:
- How much would a new catalytic converter cost, including installation?
- How much does your automobile cost?
- How many kilometers are there?
- Are there any other recurring problems with your car that could require a costly repair soon?
- Will the tires or brakes need to be replaced soon?
- Is it time to sell your car and take your losses?
How long does a catalytic converter change take?
According to CarMD[*], replacing a damaged catalytic converter is the third most frequent auto repair associated with a check engine light.
An hour is typically needed to install a new catalytic converter. Older catalytic converters are typically easier to repair than more recent ones, but depending on how uncommon your automobile is, replacing one could be more expensive.
Now that you are aware of a few signs of a faulty catalytic converter, make an appointment with your mechanic right away.
You won’t just lose your street legality if your catalytic converter fails; you could also experience poor performance, a rise in fuel costs, and possible internal damage.
How can a catalytic converter be fixed without having to buy a new one?
Try driving your car for a few tanks of high-octane fuel, for instance, if you usually fill it up with the cheapest low-octane fuel. At your next fill-up, you might also try adding one gallon of lacquer thinner to ten gallons of gasoline to remove catalytic converter deposits.
Are catalytic converters covered by insurance?
Theft of a catalytic converter is normally covered if you have comprehensive coverage on your auto insurance policy. Catalytic converter replacement and related damage repair are frequently covered under comprehensive insurance.
How challenging is it to take a catalytic converter out?
Even in broad daylight, theft can happen because Easy Grab and Go Thieves can easily remove a catalytic converter, frequently in less than two minutes. A wrench (for converters that are bolted on) or a reciprocating saw are the only instruments a thief requires (for converters that are welded in).
Do I need a catalytic converter to operate my car?
The catalytic converter works as a component of an automobile’s exhaust system to lessen air pollution. Driving without a catalytic converter won’t in any way harm your engine or your vehicle.
Why is replacing a catalytic converter so expensive?
If you’ve ever had to replace a catalytic converter or are currently in that situation, you’ve undoubtedly previously wondered why it costs so much to do so. Why should this minor element eat up a sizable portion of your savings when it’s not like the complete engine or anything? Actually, there’s a solid reason you’ll have to spend so much money fixing it. This is why.
Expenses of replacing a catalytic converter
First of all, replacing a catalytic converter can easily cost more than $1,000. Why is this, then? The catalytic converter’s construction material comes first. The converter uses particular pricey metals that not only keep the exhaust clean but also extend the life of the component.
Second, the labor cost can be higher when servicing the catalytic converter on newer vehicles because it can be labor-intensive and challenging to access. On the other hand, if you have an earlier model, it can be rather simple to do it yourself.
In other words, replacing the catalytic converter is pricey mostly because it is made of precious metals and can be a bit tricky to change on some models. But since your car won’t run without it, it’s preferable to just get it changed if you need to.
How can I tell if I need to replace my catalytic converter?
The average lifespan of a catalytic converter is 10 years or more, however they might malfunction due to contamination, clogging, overheating, or physical damage, which can eventually cause the engine to shut off.
Leaded gas is one possible pollutant since it can damage the catalysts, even though it is rarely encountered in the United States. Other pollutants include engine coolant and engine oil, which can both seep into the combustion system as a result of damaged cylinder head gaskets. These substances have the ability to clog catalytic converters, preventing exhaust gases from passing through. Similar to athletes, car engines need a lot of oxygen to function properly. Performance will decrease if the exhaust flow is restricted since there will be less air available to the engine. A clogged converter may be to blame if the engine responds slowly or stops after running for a period.
Due to enormous amounts of unburned gas produced by a malfunctioning spark plug or a leaking exhaust valve, catalytic converters can overheat. Overheating can also be brought on by an oxygen sensor failure.
The “cat” is a portion of the exhaust system that is commonly seen below cars and trucks. Like other elements of the exhaust system, it is susceptible to damage from curbs and road debris.
Catalytic Converter Theft
The precious metals we mentioned can be noticed: Because they contain valuable metals, catalytic converters are routinely stolen. Small quantities of platinum, rhodium, and palladium that converters have are valuable to metal merchants.
Catalytic Converter Maintenance
The following are some signs of a damaged catalytic converter:
- Engine performance that is too slow
- decrease in acceleration
- smoky exhaust is dark
- the exhaust has a sulfurous or rotten egg odor.
- overheating underneath the car
It’s crucial for a mechanic to determine when it’s time to replace your catalytic converter because some of those symptoms can also be brought on by other components of the emissions system.
The suggested maintenance schedule for your vehicle can help you postpone this time for as long as possibleoften 10 years or more. The possibility of your catalytic converter failing before its time is reduced by maintaining the health of your exhaust, emissions, and combustion systems.