Catalytic Converter Repair

The catalytic convert plays an important role in your car emission system by reducing the polluting toxins released back into the atmosphere.  Eventually the catalytic converter will lose its capacity to bind the excess waste produced by the internal combustion engine and you will have to repair the emission system.

The first indication that your catalytic convert needs repairing is by failing your annual/biannual smog test required by most States.  Sometimes only a quick adjustment to your emission system is required to pass the smog test; however, if adjustments do not work, you will need to have your catalytic converter pressure tested to see if your exhaust is flowing with adequate pressure. 

A simple test that your mechanic will perform is measuring the exhaust pressure entering and exiting the converter.  A small hole is drilled in the exhaust pipe to measure the exhaust pressure after the conversion process and a small hole is drilled just before converter.  Unbalanced pressure readings indicated that you need to repair your catalytic converter.

All catalytic converters come with a 7 year or 70,000 mile warranty mandated by the Federal Government.  If your car falls within those criteria have the repair done, otherwise you will need to have the converter replaced at your cost.

Repairing your catalytic converter may run several hundred dollars to repair.  To replace the catalytic converter on my 1997 Toyota Avalon, the Toyota dealer quoted $1,700.  I had to shop around, but a local muffler shop repaired the catalytic converter for $420.

Some States, such as California, offer low-income assistance in helping pay for your auto repair. You will have to apply to the program since they need to verify your income.

California also offers a vehicle retirement program that pays up to $1,000 to take your polluting vehicle off the road. Again, you need to apply for the program and once approved, you will receive instructions on where to drop off your car.