A Guide To Buy Catalytic Converter
Engine pollution spoils the places where we live and even harms our health. Car engines run on petrol or diesel, which are made from petroleum, and petroleum is made up of hydrocarbons. When this fuel is burnt, it releases different gases, which are harmful. Poisonous gases such as carbon monoxide cannot be taken in by any air-breathing animal or human. Other gases such as nitrogen oxides can lead to smog and acid rain, and hydrocarbons that generate smog. To control these gases, a device called a catalytic converter is fitted in the exhaust system. Exhaust systems have come a long way in the last few decades. Technology has advanced this exhaust system to make your driving experience better, pollution-free, and safer for yourself and others. We want to make sure you know all the importance of the catalytic converter so you can make the right decision about the best replacement catalytic converter for your ride. Let us help you with this informative guide to buying the correct catalytic converter.
1. How does a Catalytic Converter Work?
2. What Is The Difference Between Catalytic Converters And Mufflers?
3. Which Type Of Cat Converter Should I Choose?
4. What Should I Look For When Buying A Catalytic Converter?
5. Which Popular Brand Of Catalytic Converter Should I Choose?
- Walker Catalytic Converters
- Magnaflow Catalytic Converters
- Dorman (OE Solutions) Catalytic Converters
6. How Much Should I Pay For A New Catalytic Converter?
7. When Should I Change My Catalytic Converter?
8. Should I Buy An OE Or An Aftermarket Catalytic Converter?
- How to Tell if a Catalytic Converter is Aftermarket?
- How Long do Aftermarket Catalytic Converters Last?
9. FAQs
1. How does a Catalytic Converter Work?
A catalytic converter is a device that is installed in the exhaust system of a vehicle to reduce the harmful emissions produced by the engine. It works by using a catalyst to convert the pollutants in the exhaust gasses into less harmful substances before they are released into the atmosphere.
The catalytic converter is made up of a ceramic or metallic substrate coated with a catalyst such as platinum, palladium, or rhodium. When the exhaust gasses pass through the converter, the catalyst causes a chemical reaction that converts the harmful pollutants into less harmful substances such as carbon dioxide, water vapor, and nitrogen.
The effectiveness of a catalytic converter depends on several factors, including the type of catalyst used, the operating temperature of the converter, and the quality of the exhaust gas entering the converter. It is important to note that catalytic converters have a limited lifespan of about 100,000 miles.
2. What Is The Difference Between Catalytic Converters And Mufflers?
A catalytic converter can look like a muffler but is placed near the engine. The catalytic converter plays an important role in the exhaust system; it helps clean the car’s exhaust emissions using chemical reactions with precious metals like palladium, rhodium, and platinum, which are in the catalytic converter. Catalytic converters reduce harmful substances in a car’s exhaust gasses, like nitric oxide, carbon monoxide, nitrogen dioxide, and hydrocarbons, into less harmful substances such as water and carbon dioxide through chemical reactions. To operate effectively, catalytic converters require a temperature of 426 °C. Some vehicles can have one or more, smaller catalytic converters that are known as “pre-cats” and are fitted after the exhaust manifold.
Top Picks For Catalytic Converter
3. Which Type Of Cat Converter Should I Choose?
At present, the catalytic converters are fitted in almost all cars. They cannot be seen, but their ingenious work can be felt when we look at the exhaust gases. Depending on the vehicle you drive, there may be one or two catalytic converters. The size and shape may vary depending on the model, but the function remains the same, to provide as much clean exhaust as possible.
Based On Construction
1. “Two-Way Type” Catalytic Converters
A simple ‘two-way’ catalytic converter has two simultaneous tasks to complete, to turn carbon monoxide (CO) into carbon dioxide (CO2) and to turn hydrocarbons, which are usually un-burnt fuel particles, into carbon dioxide and water.
Two-way converters operate relatively efficiently with a lean fuel mixture. Ineffectiveness in controlling NOx (nitrogen oxides) led to the introduction of three-way converters.
2. “Three-Way Type” Catalytic Converters
More advanced ‘three-way’ catalytic converters are fitted to modern cars and these turn carbon monoxide (CO) into carbon dioxide (CO2) and hydrocarbons into carbon dioxide and water. While also minimizing emissions of nitric oxide (NO) and nitrogen dioxide (NO2) that together are called NOx, which is a significant cause of air pollution.
3. “Three-Way Plus Type” Catalytic Converters
A three-way plus converter also referred to as a “dual-bed” catalytic converter. It includes an air pump and a tube to increase oxygen levels which are injected between the three-way catalyst and an extra oxidation bed is provided to further clean the engine exhaust. The three-way plus converters are rarely used because they are not as efficient as the three-way converters.
Based On Mounting Location
1. Exhaust Manifold Catalytic Converter Assembly
Exhaust manifold catalytic converter assembly are two different parts but are welded into one. These types of catalytic converters are directly welded to the exhaust manifold, making the catalytic converter nearer to the engine’s exhaust. This helps the close-coupled catalytic converter to heat quickly, because of its exposure to the hot exhaust gases, enabling it to minimize the undesirable emissions during the engine warm-up phase.
2. Underbody Catalytic Converter
Underbody catalytic converters are found below the vehicle chassis. Manufacturers always try to get the catalytic converters near the engine because this reduces the time for the catalytic converter to reach operating temperature. But due to the design of the vehicle, placement of the engine, and other components it becomes hard for the engineers to fit the catalytic converter closer to the engine. For this, the underbody is the best place and the catalyti
Based On The Fitment
1. Direct Fit Catalytic Converters
Direct-Fit Catalytic Converters are designed to bolt onto the vehicle without any additional adjustments to the mounting space and the exhaust system. They are manufactured using the features and constraints specific to the vehicle in which they are installed. They can be fitted in the exhaust system, between the muffler and the manifold. Some vehicles can even have additional smaller catalytic converters that are known as “pre-cats” and are fitted between the manifold and the main catalytic converters.
2. Universal Catalytic Converters
Universal converters do require some modifications to the system but are made to fit a wide range of applications. These converters are generally cheaper than direct-fit converters. Installing a universal-fit cat converter is not a simple job and will require professional help.
4. What Should I Look For When Buying A Catalytic Converter?
1. Compatibility
As technology is advancing in the automobile field. The development of a catalytic converter of almost all vehicles is advancing, because of which they differ from one, and other, this difference may even exist between different models of a particular make or even versions of the same car. For this, it is necessary to choose a proper catalytic converter specific to your vehicle’s make, model, and year of manufacture. Most catalytic converters are vehicle specific, so finding one that is meant for your vehicle is necessary for a precise fit and function.
2. Choosing A Brand
There are many best-selling brands for catalytic converter. You can choose between the brand you like or any other brand with multiple features. But those with less idea of the component can refer to the top brand section to understand the features of the bestselling catalytic converters and their related components to decide the brand of choice. The mentioned features showcase the fortes of the corresponding brand, which can help you decide the right catalytic converters for your personal application.
3. Checking For Fitment And Leakage
Once the catalytic converters are replaced, it becomes necessary to check their function for sound and leakage of exhaust gases from joints. There are laws in some states which do not allow high sound from the exhaust system. A leak or a faulty exhaust joint can seriously affect the environment with pollution. Driving a vehicle with such problems is a serious safety issue for the environment and people and can prove dangerous at higher speeds.
4. Check For Maximum Warranty
Anything can happen after an investment. Pay close attention to warranties for expensive components such as a catalytic converter. There are many brands that offer more warranty periods than others. It is always best to buy a product that has more years of warranty periods as it covers repairs and replacements for free or at a minimal charge.
5. With Or Without Oxygen Sensor
The difference between with or without an oxygen sensor is clear from the name. Depending on your vehicle, the catalytic converters can come with or without an oxygen sensor. The oxygen sensor is also called a lambda sensor. If your vehicle’s catalytic converter has an oxygen sensor, buy a catalytic converter having a hole for the oxygen sensor.
5. Which Popular Brand Of Catalytic Converter Should I Choose?
Walker Catalytic Converters
Walker catalytic converters are one of the most demandable brands in the market at present conditions. Backed by superior materials and rigorous testing, Walker catalytic converters deliver the reliable performance you can count on. Every component they make is thoroughly checked, due to which they deliver 100% satisfaction for you and your customers.
Direct-Fit Catalytic Converter Part Number: 16591, 54782, 16604, 53794, 47846, 16326, and more.
Features:
- It has a stainless steel body with an aluminized pipe and heat shields for durability.
- Comes with an OE-style routing and hanger position for easy installation.
- For enhanced strength, it has thick OE-style flanges, hangers, and brackets.
- Normally has 5-year/50,000-mile catalytic performance and structural integrity warranty.
- It complies with C.A.R.B. regulations.
Exhaust Manifold And Converter Assembly Part Number: 16373, 16647, 16392, 16469, 16584, 16785, and more.
Features:
- It has a stainless steel body with an aluminized pipe and heat shields for durability.
- Comes with an OE-style routing and hanger position for easy installation.
- For enhanced strength, it has thick OE-style flanges, hangers, and brackets.
- Normally has 5-year/50,000-mile catalytic performance and structural integrity warranty.
- It complies with C.A.R.B. regulations.
Universal Converter Part Number: 15043, 93253, 93251, 15037, 93252, 93268, and more.
Features:
- It has a stainless steel body with an aluminized pipe and heat shields for durability.
- Comes with an OE-style routing and hanger position for easy installation.
- For custom installation requirements, it has expandable bushings.
- To complete installation universal converters may or may not require modification.
- Normally has 5-year/50,000-mile catalytic performance and structural integrity warranty.
- It complies with C.A.R.B. regulations.
For more, you can visit our Walker Catalytic Converters section.
Magnaflow Catalytic Converters
Magnaflow has a state-of-the-art metrology section that provides the latest 3D scanning systems for its development and research, which makes the user confident that the new part will fit and function like the original equipment. Parts are welded by single laser fusion which minimizes the possibility of a leak and the low mass, compact design also provides for greater thermal efficiency.
Direct-Fit Catalytic Converter Part Number: 23227, 3391449, 93419, 23453, 3391918, 23226, and more.
Features:
- It has free-flowing mandrel-bent tubing.
- Made from highly corrosion-resistant, stainless steel construction,
- Can easily install this converter by yourself using the proper tools,
- Required no cutting or welding for fitment.
- Includes gaskets and hardware to avoid the possibility of a leaking seal
- This replacement part meets or exceeds federal emissions requirements.
Exhaust Manifold And Converter Assembly Part Number: 49833, 49291, 51060, 51741, 50304, 49758, and more.
Features:
- It has free-flowing mandrel-bent tubing.
- Made from highly corrosion-resistant, stainless steel construction,
- Can easily install this converter by yourself using the proper tools,
- Required no cutting or welding for fitment.
- Includes gaskets and hardware to avoid the possibility of a leaking seal
- This replacement part meets or exceeds federal emissions requirements.
Universal Converter Part Number: 99356HM, 99206HM, 99205HM, 51356, 99305HM, 94006, and more.
Features:
- It has free-flowing mandrel-bent tubing.
- Made from highly corrosion-resistant, stainless steel construction,
- Can easily install this converter by yourself using the proper tools,
- Required no cutting or welding for fitment.
- Includes gaskets and hardware to avoid the possibility of a leaking seal
- This replacement part meets or exceeds federal emissions requirements.
For more, you can visit our Magnaflow Catalytic Converters section.
Dorman (OE Solutions) Catalytic Converters
The Dorman (OE Solutions). produces catalytic converters that meet or exceed OEM standards while providing additional benefits to make sure that the product lasts longer and performs better so you can drive the vehicle with confidence. Using punishing durability testing, they check every new catalytic converter to ensure you get better performance you can trust.
Exhaust Manifold And Converter Assembly Part Number: 647-959, 674-021, 674-050, 674-933, 674-439, 674-121, and more.
Features:
- For the fitment and performance, like the original equipment, the manifold converter is a perfect match.
- The manifold converter includes gaskets and downpipe hardware, which makes the installation easy.
- They are manufactured within strict tolerances for reliable longevity.
- In the United States, an expert team of engineers and quality control is back behind in making the manifold converters.
For more, you can visit our Dorman (OE Solutions) Catalytic Converters section.
6. How Much Should I Pay For A New Catalytic Converter?
Catalytic converters are tough components and do not get easily damaged, but if you have completed the inspections and are sure that you need to replace your catalytic converter, the catalytic converter should be replaced as per the manufacturer’s recommendation. You have an option to choose from a unique brand or the same brand if it suits your budget. Price ranges are different depending on the make and model of the vehicle, and it also varies from one brand to the other. The catalytic converters have precious materials in them which makes them costlier. The catalytic converter will cost you around $300 to $950. While the labor cost is only about $50 to $100. If you have the proper tools and knowledge, you can change the catalytic converter yourself and save a lot for the labor.
7. When Should I Change My Catalytic Converter?
One of the most important parts of your vehicle’s exhaust system is the catalytic converter because it helps to reduce the impact of your car on the environment. A new catalytic converter can work efficiently for about ten years, but due to other vehicle components, the exact lifespan can be different. Bad mileage and improper engine tuning can affect the durability of the catalytic converter, so it’s worth confirming the condition of this component after every 50,000 miles. Because when the catalytic converter shows signs of failure, it will not immediately affect the engine. If not checked, it will plug and degrade the unit. This will choke vehicle performance and even reduce the life of the engine.
8. Should I Buy An OE Or An Aftermarket Catalytic Converter?
Not every vehicle can operate efficiently on an aftermarket catalytic converter, so you need to find the one for your vehicle. You can check the owner’s manual for manufacturer-recommended types. Most times you have an option to change from OE to aftermarket, which can increase the vehicle’s performance while providing many benefits over standard catalytic converters. But sometimes, you need to stick to the manufacturer’s recommendation.
How to Tell if a Catalytic Converter is Aftermarket?
To identify if a catalytic converter is aftermarket, you can look for the following characteristics:
- The catalytic converter may have a silver-colored shield with an arrow on it. The arrow indicates the proper installation direction based on airflow.
- The catalytic converter may have common codes with “N” on the units.
- The catalytic converter may have the word “Flow” or “Out” stamped on it.
Aftermarket catalytic converters are often made of lower quality materials and might not have a polished finish. They may also have a shorter lifespan than OEM catalytic converters.
How Long do Aftermarket Catalytic Converters Last?
The lifespan of an aftermarket catalytic converter depends on several factors, including the type of converter, driving conditions, and regular maintenance. According to MotorBiscuit.com, catalytic converters have a limited lifespan of about 100,000 miles. However, this is subject to several factors such as the make and model of the vehicle, driving conditions, and maintenance.
It is important to note that aftermarket catalytic converters are often made of lower quality materials and might not have a polished finish. They may also have a shorter lifespan than OEM catalytic converters.
If you are looking to replace your catalytic converter, it is recommended to select the right replacement based on the specific application of your vehicle, the emissions regulations in your state, and the type of catalytic converter configuration that is compatible with your vehicle. MagnaFlow, a manufacturer of catalytic converters, offers two types of catalytic converters: direct-fit and universal. Direct-fit converters are designed to replace the specific application’s OEM part directly without modification. Universal catalytic converters, on the other hand, offer compatibility with a wide range of vehicles based upon its physical universal design and specific emissions standard loading.
9. FAQs
Q) Are Catalytic Converters Easy To Replace?
Replacing a catalytic converter is not a tough job, but with a little experience, it can be done to save serious money. For catalytic converter work, mechanics charge an enormous amount. If you have the knowledge, then the job can be done at home.
Q) How Can The Catalytic Converter Overheat?
The catalytic converter can overheat if it is clogged, it can also overheat due to large amounts of unburned fuel caused by a misfiring spark plug or a leaky exhaust valve. In addition, a defective oxygen sensor can cause overheating by sending false information to the ECU.
Q) Can I Drive My Car Without A Catalytic Converter?
You can drive your vehicle, and it will run just fine without a catalytic converter. The catalytic converter does not help the engine or its performance. All they do is clean up the emissions by removing harmful gases.
Q) Does Catalytic Converter Cleaner Work?
Catalytic converter cleaner works to break down carbon deposits. It cleans and removes the carbon buildup in the engine and exhaust system. Using it regularly will help clear most of the stubborn deposits.
| Walker Catalytic Converter – Part Number Catalog | |
| Category | Part Numbers |
| Direct-Fit Catalytic Converter | 54399, 54809, 53389, 16360, 16167, 16564, 54737, 16370, 47833, 55585, 16451, 53717 |
| Exhaust Manifold And Converter Assembly | 16407, 16618, 16518, 16456, 16412, 16410, 16643, 16394, 16720, 16476, 16651, 16653 |
| Universal Converter | 93304, 93302, 93267, 93266, 15042, 15032, 93238, 15051, 93202, 15036, 93201, 15026 |
| Magnaflow Catalytic Converter – Part Number Catalog | |
| Category | Part Numbers |
| Direct-Fit Catalytic Converter | 22636, 52401, 52177, 4451221, 52708, 557769, 51466, 52186, 557428, 551265, 551264, 551666 |
| Exhaust Manifold And Converter Assembly | 50805, 553333, 51000, 50273, 50275, 50884, 52130, 51596, 50655, 49735, 452468, 52168 |
| Universal Converter | 99204HM, 99354HM, 51205, 99355HM, 51206, 99509HM, 99106HM, 99306HM, 94009, 94016, 447206, 99005HM |
