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.
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.
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:
- oil that penetrates
- substitute catalytic converter
- Set of ratchets and sockets
- Jack postures
- sensor socket for oxygen
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.
In This Article...
On a 2009, where is the catalytic converter located?
Under your car, there is a catalytic converter that is bolted to the exhaust pipe. Because they lessen emissions of hazardous substances contained in exhaust, they are an essential part of your car’s exhaust system. Catalytic converters are necessary for all vehicles manufactured after 1974 in order to transform these pollutants into less damaging compounds before they exit your vehicle’s exhaust system.
Why people steal catalytic converters
Why not the whole car or the stereo? There is a reason why some criminals choose to steal catalytic converters over other kinds of auto components. Why your catalytic converter is a target is as follows:
It’s simple to steal them. With a saw or wrench, catalytic converters can be taken out in a matter of minutes. Simply by crawling underneath a car, the robber can slice the converter free. They typically don’t even have to jack up the automobile!
They have great value. Thieves like to target catalytic converters because they are valuable as scrap metal. They include priceless metals used to filter emissions and lessen car pollution, such as rhodium, platinum, and palladium. Depending on the size of the converter and the amount of precious metals inside, catalytic converters can be sold to scrap yards for anywhere between $150 and $200 each piece.
There’s a number of possibilities to steal from. SUVs, for instance, are simpler to scurry beneath, which makes them easier to target. Due to their more precious metal-filled catalytic converters, low-emission automobiles are also frequently targeted.
They’re hard to trace. Catalytic converters, unlike the automobiles themselves, lack an identification number, making it difficult to recognize them as stolen property.
How to tell if your catalytic converter has been stolen
Finding your car in the exact position it was parked in the previous evening, seemingly undamaged, might be a relief. However, even if your car appears to be in good condition, there could be additional signs that your catalytic converter is missing, such as:
a howling sound. When you start your car, it will make a loud rumbling or roaring noise if the catalytic converter has been removed. And if you step on the gas, it will just get louder.
a rough ride. Your car will drive rougher than usual because the exhaust isn’t functioning properly.
Making spitting noises You’ll hear a sputtering sound as you increase your speed.
a large hole Your converter is missing if there is a huge gaping space in the center of your exhaust when you check under your automobile. The next time you drive, make sure to check under your car first so you’ll know what to search for if something is missing.
snip pipes. You might be able to see evidence of the piping being removed if you look underneath your car.
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
- Is routine maintenance essential for proper engine operation?
- faulty oxygen sensor
- wiring issues
- Computer error codes unrelated to catalytic converters
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 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 much does your automobile cost?
How can a catalytic converter be fixed without having to buy a new one?
Power Sources and Fuel Additives 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.
What are the top three reasons why a catalytic converter fails?
Three types of catalytic converter failures are the most common: overheated, melted, and broken converters.
How long does changing a catalytic converter 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.
Cars lacking catalytic converters can still be driven.
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.
What can I do to keep my catalytic converter from being stolen?
Use a locked garage, regularly shift your car’s place, or park in well-lit areas close to exits for the general public. Install a theft prevention device. Install cameras and motion-activated lights in your parking area. Some local police departments even provide free painting programs to dissuade purchasers by painting your catalytic converter.
Which automobiles are most susceptible to having their catalytic converters stolen?
These are the vehicles that need catalytic converters the most.
- Ford F-Series pickup trucks from 1985 to 2021 (F-150, F-250, etc.)
- Honda Accord: 1989–2020.
- Jeep Patriot, 2007–2017.
- Ford Econoline vans from 1990 to 222.
- Chevrolet Silverado pickup trucks from 1999 to 2021.
- Chevy Equinox, model years 2005–21.
- Honda CR-V, which is available from 1997 until 2020.
- Toyota Camry, 1987–2019.
Catalytic converter placement on the car: front or back?
The catalytic converter is often found in the exhaust system on the underbelly of an automobile or truck, between the engine and the muffler.