Your car’s exhaust system is a very intricate system, so you’re likely to eventually have a problem with it. Specifically, you may find trouble with your catalytic converter, because it’s arguably the most essential component in the exhaust system. Unfortunately, that means it can be an expensive endeavor when it comes time to replace your catalytic converter.
To replace a catalytic converter, you can expect to pay anywhere between $400 to $2,000, varying on your car. You can often blame the expensive parts for this relatively high cost, rather than the labor. Your situation may be different, so it’s best to contact Performance Muffler for a quote with your catalytic converter services.
What Does a Catalytic Converter Do?
Let’s first cover what exactly a catalytic converter is and why it’s important. Then you’ll have a better understanding of catalytic converter costs and when it’s time to replace it.
As mentioned, a catalytic converter is part of the exhaust system, which directs exhaust fumes away from passengers and safely, and quietly, converts them to be released out of the tailpipe. The catalytic converter itself is responsible for converting harmful engine emissions to carbon dioxide (CO2) and water (H2O). It uses a chamber, called a catalyst, that alters, or “converts,” gasses after the exhaust manifold carries them from the piston to the catalytic converter.
Why Is Replacing a Catalytic Converter So Expensive?
The amount of labor needed and the car model is the most important factors when determining the cost to replace a catalytic converter.
Replacing a catalytic converter is not a simple operation, such as changing your oil or replacing a tire. It can require a few hours, or several, to properly replace a catalytic converter. When you’re getting a catalytic converter replacement quote, be sure to ask about the labor cost. You won’t want any surprises once the operation’s finished.
The biggest reason why replacing a catalytic converter is a relatively expensive car operation is the parts. Cars that were built since 1981 have a three-way catalytic converter, making it a more expensive process to replace since the design is more complicated. And the chances are your vehicle was built after 1981, so keep this in mind when looking to replace your converter. Know that it can be a high-priced, but essential vehicle maintenance operation.
Benefits of a New Converter
Like all good vehicle operations, there are some noteworthy benefits to a new catalytic converter.
The first is that it’s safer for you and those around your vehicle. Your vehicle creates some very harmful emissions to power itself, so it requires a properly-working exhaust system, including a catalytic converter, to convert them to be safer to release in the air. This also means that a new catalytic converter is better for the environment.
A new catalytic converter will also improve the performance of your vehicle. An efficient exhaust system means your vehicle won’t have to work as hard. This will result in an improvement of horsepower and thus better fuel economy.
Let Us Replace Your Catalytic Converter – Get a Free Quote
Don’t drive any longer with a bad catalytic converter. You’re doing yourself, your vehicle, and the environment a disservice. Contact the expert team at Performance Muffler for a free quote to replace your catalytic converter or other automotive services.
About Performance Muffler
Performance Muffler has been a shop for top custom car work since 2007. We are proud to service the Phoenix area with exhaust repairs and replacements, catalytic converter services, cat-back exhaust systems, and more.
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