Now that you’ve got a better idea of the type of cat you’re looking for, check out this list of the industry’s best to compare your options! The Best Aftermarket Catalytic Converters The installation is more complicated, and you need to confirm your new cat has the right sensor ports. But you’ll need to measure your current exhaust and weld the cat converter into place. Universal catalytic converters are the cheaper option. The installation is obviously much easier, as they are direct replacements and require no welding. We’re talking about the same tubing diameter and the perfect placement of O2 sensors. There are two main types of aftermarket catalytic converters: direct fit and universal.Īs the name implies, direct fit catalytic converts are manufactured to the exact dimensions of your factory converter.
Whatever those standards are, your new catalytic converter needs to meet them. But you should still check your local emissions equipment standards. If your vehicle was originally sold outside of California, it is probably not equipped with CARB-acceptable emissions equipment. They regulate a vehicle’s emissions-based pollution and are… tough, to say the least. On the off chance that your vehicle was originally sold in California (or you will be registering it in California), the emissions equipment will meet CARB standards.ĬARB (short for California Environmental Protection Agency Air Resources Board) standards were set in the 1960s to combat L.A.’s sever smog problem. It should be clearly visible directly under the hood or on the firewall area somewhere behind your engine. And to figure this out, just open your hood and look for the emissions sticker. Check out this quick guide and you’ll be well on your way to buying and installing your new catalytic converter.īefore you can start your search, you need to identify your ride’s factory emissions equipment. We’re here to get you started with your research. And don’t be fooled – the installation won’t be as easy as fitting in new floor mats.īut if you enjoy working on your car, truck, or SUV, installing an aftermarket catalytic converter will be a great and worthwhile experience.
But you’ll have to do a bit of research beforehand. The second is to replace it with an aftermarket catalytic converter. The obvious downside is you’ll have to spend a ton of cash if you decide on this option. The first is to get a new factory cat converter from your dealership. If you’re thinking about replacing your vehicle’s catalytic converter you can go one of two ways.