What to know

While we do not sell directly to public, we are here to be a resource for your converter questions. Replacing your catalytic converter is a big investment. While CARB converters are more expensive than EPA converters, you get the added benefit of a cleaner converter that has an extended warranty of 5 years or 50,000 miles. To ensure you protect your investment, we recommend consumers be aware of the following tips and guidelines.
 

Converter Database

If you are independently searching for a part for your vehicle you must first choose the right database. These two databases should be used and if your part is not listed here, do not purchase it. Ebay, amazon, and other sites may not have accurate or the most up-to-date information. You must first make sure your part is listed here.

CARBCATS.COM

CARB Database

Find the right installer

A good mechanic or shop will first correctly identify why your converter failed. If they tell you that the converter is bad, but only quote you a replacement converter, you will have another issue with the converter in the near future. Converters rarely go bad on their own and proper corrective work must be done before replacing the converter. Common fixes are: tune-ups, replace spark plugs, fix oil leaks, fix engine misfire, fix engine overheating, replace O2 sensors, etc. Be wary of any shop that quotes you a cheap price and ONLY replaces the converter.

Here are some questions you may want to ask:

• What caused the converter to fail?

• how will you fix the issue?

• can you provide me with paperwork on the work that was done?

DYI or Professional install?

While some consumers may be savvy enough to install a direct fit converter on their own, they may have issues if a warranty claim comes up. Manufacturers may not accept work done by individuals. If a consumer chooses to do their own work, we emphasis doing proper diagnosis and maintenance work to ensure the converter does not prematurely fail due to not addressing the root cause.

Because finding the right converter is not as straight forward as other aftermarket replacement parts, we recommend a professional installer find the right converter for your vehicle that matches with the Test Group Name/Engine Family Number. Some vehicles of the same year, make, and model may have 6 different Test Group Name/Engine Family Numbers, which means it could have 6 different converters you must choose correctly from.

Some vehicles will require direct fit converters. Even though there may be a universal converter that is approved for your vehicle, that does not mean it is physically possible to put on a universal on your vehicle. We highly recommend never purchasing a universal converter and trying to install it on your own or taking it to a shop.