Things to Know about Catalytic Converter Replacement Cost

If your vehicle has failed the emissions test, shows signs of poor fuel efficiency, or produces a weird rotten egg smell, it’s probably the catalytic converter to blame. The bad news: it’s a threat to the environment and your wallet. 

The catalytic converter cost to replace varies based on your vehicle’s make, model, year, and the scope of damage already done to the system. That’s why understanding when to have this car component replaced, key cost factors, and the risks of driving with a compromised exhaust system is crucial. 

Keep reading to find out everything you need to know to handle a failing catalytic converter like a pro! 

What is a Catalytic Converter?

Let’s first break down what a catalytic converter is. This component is a critical part of any vehicle’s emissions control system. It makes a big difference in how many harmful compounds — byproducts of the combustion process — your car emits as exhaust gases. In other words, this auto part breaks down the highly toxic molecules in the gases your vehicle produces into less harmful emissions. 

A catalytic converter has a honeycomb structure made up of platinum, rhodium, and palladium. These precious metals act as reduction and oxidation catalysts. Platinum and rhodium interact with nitrogen oxide to make it less hazardous, whereas palladium and platinum transform carbon monoxide into carbon dioxide by adding oxygen. 

When to Replace a Catalytic Converter?

When something goes wrong in the system, you should react promptly to avert any excessive damage to your car and ensure it doesn’t cause harm to the environment. If the issue remains unresolved for a long time, the entire emissions control system suffers. And the price you’ll have to pay to repair a catalytic converter will skyrocket as the problem escalates. That’s why it’s always worth keeping an eye on the warning signs listed below. 

• Failed emissions test. More than 30 states have made fuel emissions testing compulsory. Hence, many vehicles have already undergone this type of assessment at some point. While the specific requirements and standards differ across states, having a failed emissions test is a sure sign of a faulty catalytic converter. 
• Illuminated check engine light. Your vehicle is a complex yet smart system. If the catalytic converter malfunctions, the oxygen sensor in the exhaust detects the issue and alerts the engine control unit — the brain of your car’s engine — that something’s amiss. So, when the check engine light goes on, get your vehicle professionally diagnosed to know for sure whether the catalytic converter is the culprit.  
• Rotten egg smell. Have you noticed an odd rotten smell coming from somewhere from the exhaust pipe? Such a nauseating odor could be hydrogen sulfide. If your catalytic converter works just fine, it converts this gas into odor-neutral sulfur dioxide. When the discussed auto part fails to operate properly, the hydrogen sulfide escapes through the tailpipe with that horrid stench. 
• Poor fuel efficiency. A clogged catalytic converter hinders the airflow to the engine. The engine must exert additional effort to sustain the same power, resulting in a higher fuel consumption than usual. As a result, you’ll have to replenish that gas tank more frequently — a change no car owner would appreciate. 
• Problematic acceleration. Carbon buildup can partially block the converter, leading to insufficient back pressure in the exhaust system and restricted airflow. In simpler terms, less airflow means less efficient engine performance, compromised power output — and, finally, a slower process of getting your vehicle to move faster.  
• Exhaust leaks. Have a look under the exhaust pipe of your car. Should there be any sign of leakage, consider having a mechanic inspect the vehicle to identify the root cause of the problem. Exhaust leaks disrupt the input for the oxygen sensors. Consequently, with inaccurate data sent to the engine control unit, a false indication of a defective catalytic converter surfaces.  
• A grinding noise. Over time, the honeymoon structure of this auto part can break down.  An annoying rattle coming from near the exhaust system is one of the most apparent signs of a potential problem with the catalytic converter. 

What Influences Catalytic Converter Replacement Costs?

The question of how much does it cost to replace a catalytic converter has no one-size-fits-all answer.  Still, a few specific aspects determine the price tag for the service. 

The key cost factor is the type of catalytic converter you’ll opt for. Below are the two most common types to choose from.  

• Direct-fit catalytic converters. They are assembled with the specific characteristics of your car in mind. Your vehicle’s make, model, years, and other specs are considered to ensure a smooth installation and a perfect fit. Given a more customized approach, these are typically pricier. 
• Universal catalytic converters. With a universal catalytic converter, you’ll get a standard auto part that might be harder to mount to your car. While the labor costs for having this type installed might be higher, it’s still a cheaper alternative. 

The specs of your automobile also play a role in the total replacement expenses. Newer vehicles tend to have exhaust systems of more complex designs, with converters often integrated into the exhaust manifold. As a result, it’s more challenging to get them disassembled. A more problematic access to the faulty auto part makes the process time and effort-consuming, which, in turn, increases the ultimate replacing catalytic converter cost.  

Price Range for a Catalytic Converter Replacement 

The make and model of the automobile you drive also have a major impact on the price tag of your catalytic converter replacement project. Consider the typical price ranges for some of the car models to have a clearer understanding of what you’re likely to pay for the service. 

What Causes a Catalytic Converter to Fail?

A catalytic converter can stop functioning properly for quite a few reasons. Here’s a list of things that might compromise the operational efficacy of this part of your automobile.

• Defective oxygen sensors. A faulty oxygen sensor sends inaccurate data to the engine control unit. Hence, the latter miscalculates the fuel-oxygen ratio. Incorrect readings can cause the engine to operate inefficiently, allowing excess fuel to enter the exhaust system. Over time, such erroneous calculations deteriorate the condition of your car’s catalytic converter. 
• Faulty spark plugs. Defective spark plugs force the unburned fuel into the exhaust system. As the converter becomes very hot when the engine’s running, the unburned gas can ignite inside this auto part and lead to a partial or complete meltdown of the internal honeycomb structure. 
• Contamination with oil or antifreeze. When either of these two substances enters the exhaust system, they lead to carbon and soot deposits accumulating inside the catalytic converter. This buildup obstructs free airflow and results in considerable back pressure when the exhaust gases are forced back into the combustion chambers of your car’s engine. 
• Overheating. Engine misfires or leaks can lead to excessive heat in the system. This can make the catalyst material melt or lose its proper qualities. 
• Poor gas quality. Fuel with high sulfur levels or other contaminants deteriorates multiple car components, including the catalytic converter. 
• Structural damage. The inside of this auto component is made of fragile materials that are susceptible to physical damage. Off-road driving, potholes, or any other external impact could fracture the discussed structure. Besides, over time, corrosion and metal fatigue are unavoidable, making regular maintenance a must for prolonging the lifespan of your vehicle. 

Risks of Driving a Car With a Broken Catalytic Converter

Driving a car with a broken catalytic converter comes with risks. And the most apparent concern is the environmental footprint. Without a properly functioning catalytic converter, your vehicle sends way more hazardous compounds into the open. Plus, there’s a legal side. As highlighted above, most states have compulsory emissions testing. If you don’t have a properly functional converter in your automobile, you’ll likely face fines. 

Keep in mind that poor fuel economy means your car uses too much gas to keep things running. The drop in power output is not only costly but also irritating. Your driving experience will suffer just like your wallet. 

And finally, the noise. While the discussed auto component deals with the exhaust gases, it also acts as a muffler, keeping your engine quiet. However, when you run a catalytic converter that malfunctions, the loud car sounds could lead to an accidental violation of local noise regulations, resulting in fines and penalties. 

Assess the Overall Condition of the Car

A catalytic converter is a pricey auto component to replace. For some car models, the total expenses for the service could surpass the $3,000 point. That’s why it’s reasonable to do some cost-benefit analysis before you commit to the process. 

While some minor fixable issues justify the cost to repair catalytic converter, a complete replacement might not be worth the effort. What should you do then? Start with assessing the overall condition of your vehicle. Is everything else on point, or have some other mechanical or electrical issues surfaced recently? Does your vehicle run the way it should, or have you been looking for an upgrade? 

When the genuine state of affairs becomes clearer, and you understand that having the converter replaced isn’t worth the money, contact JunkCarsUs to get the best value for your vehicle, regardless of its current condition. Alongside competitive prices, JunkCarsUs offers free towing, which makes it an ideal solution for those looking to sell a car with a compromised exhaust system with no hassle!  

FAQ