Differences in Catalytic converters

ChillyAg19

Joined: Sep 28, 2020

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My car needs a new catalytic converter but I'm really trying to to save a few hundred dollars on the part itself. Each place I've been to wants at least $800 for the part. I did find an OEM grade part online for $800 but I am also finding some alot cheaper ($400-$500).

I've read a few differences online like they may have a different metal content. My car already has 120,000 miles so I only need a part that will guaranteed last another 20,000-30,000.

Just wanted to see if anyone here has some more knowledge on buying car parts and their quality. Thanks!

dodger02

Joined: Jan 4, 2001

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6:07p, 5/21/24

How do you know you need a new cat?

I had an F150 that was throwing codes indicating a bad cat and I just changed the sensor on the upstream side of the driver side cat and my problem was solved. It was like $80.

ChillyAg19

Joined: Sep 28, 2020

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In reply to dodger02 • 7:27p, 5/21/24

I took it to Ford to get some recalls fixed. The check engine light had been going off and on. They diagnosed it as a bad cat. Admittedly I should get a second opinion.

big ben

Joined: May 9, 2007

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8:00p, 5/21/24

Buy a magnaflow for less than $200 and have a local exhaust shop install

Tim Weaver

Joined: Feb 13, 2015

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In reply to big ben • 8:18p, 5/21/24

big ben said:
Buy a magnaflow for less than $200 and have a local exhaust shop install

This. You are required to have one, but you aren't required to have the factory cat in Texas (as far as I know).

Many states do mandate the factory cats, which would be a bummer when it gets stolen. The aftermarket ones don't get stolen.

TecRecAg

Joined: Feb 24, 2011

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In reply to big ben • 4:02p, 5/22/24

big ben said:
Buy a magnaflow for less than $200 and have a local exhaust shop install

This I've never understood people wanting to replace their cats with OEM ones. Magnaflow Hi-Flo cats are lightyears better.

TexAg1987

Joined: Jan 7, 2009

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In reply to TecRecAg • 4:49p, 5/22/24

TecRecAg said:
big ben said:
Buy a magnaflow for less than $200 and have a local exhaust shop install
This I've never understood people wanting to replace their cats with OEM ones. Magnaflow Hi-Flo cats are lightyears better.

When the thefts were on the rise, some cars seemed to be very temperamental about non-OE cats, but it was probably more about the cheap aftermarket ones not doing what a cat is supposed to do.

If you use quality parts, you are probably going to be OK.