What’s the scoop with aftermarket catalytic converters?

Replacing your catalytic converter can be expensive, especially if you are buying a brand new one. Manufacturer-sourced catalytic converter repairs can potentially run you over 300 plus, so it's not surprising that owners often turn to alternative sources when confronted with this repair.

What is a catalytic converter?

Your catalytic converter is a component of your exhaust that converts harmful gases such as carbon monoxide into safer compounds. Catalytic converters are designed to last the entire lifetime of your car, however, unattended repair issues in other components of the exhaust system can cause wear and breakdown. They are also fitted on the outside of the car, and are easily damaged through accidents.

Should I buy an aftermarket catalytic converter?

The main benefit of an aftermarket catalytic converter is… money. An aftermarket catalytic converter can save you over 80% on the price of a new one, costing less than 70 plus. However, there are significant downsides in purchasing aftermarket, and you should be aware of them before making your decision.

Shorter Lifetime

Since aftermarket products have been used before, they will wear down and break much faster than new products. They can also be prone to damage during collisions, which may lead to you needing another replacement, and in extreme cases can cause damage to your emissions system. Generally, the lower the price of an aftermarket catalytic converter, the lower its projected lifetime. If you do opt in to buying an aftermarket product, being aware of this potential problem and knowing the signs of a failing catalytic converter can help you avoid the risks associated with your catalytic converter’s failure.

Regulations

Before purchasing an aftermarket product, you should do your research on what type of emissions your car is regulated to produce. This information is generally located on your emission sticker, which is located under the hood of your car (if yours is still there). If the catalytic converter that you’ve purchased does not meet these regulations, then it’s worthless. Purchasing an aftermarket converter also runs the risk of a converter performing sub-optimally. These are all risks that need to be assessed before making a decision.

CarMecx:
What’s the scoop with aftermarket catalytic converters?

Since aftermarket products have been used before, they will wear down and break much faster than new products. They can also be prone to damage during collisions, which may lead to you needing another replacement, and in extreme cases can cause damage to your emissions system. Generally, the lower the price of an aftermarket catalytic converter, the lower its projected lifetime. If you do opt in to buying an aftermarket product, being aware of this potential problem and knowing the signs of a failing catalytic converter can help you avoid the risks associated with your catalytic converter’s failure.

So you mean OEM CATs are not prone to damage during collisions??

Regulations

Before purchasing an aftermarket product, you should do your research on what type of emissions your car is regulated to produce. This information is generally located on your emission sticker, which is located under the hood of your car (if yours is still there). If the catalytic converter that you’ve purchased does not meet these regulations, then it’s worthless. Purchasing an aftermarket converter also runs the risk of a converter performing sub-optimally. These are all risks that need to be assessed before making a decision.

Copy with sense https://www.fiix.io/car-advice/articles/should-you-buy-an-aftermarket-catalytic-converter