Is it time for a catalytic converter replacement for your car?

Has your car got you rattled? If you’re dealing with more noise, vibration and strange smells than a music festival, you may have a faulty catalytic converter on your hands.

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The catalytic converter specialists

If you suspect your catalytic converter is on its way out, get in touch with your local mycar. By checking in with us over the phone (13 13 28), we can help narrow down the potential issue before you come in, saving you time. Our mechanics know the ins-and-outs of the catalytic converter, so if you think yours is wearing out, we can check it, fix it or replace it for you.

What’s involved in a catalytic converter replacement?

The process to replace a catalytic converter can vary, as some makes and models feature welded catalytic converters, while others will have it clamped or bolted into place. Generally, it will involve:

Accessing the exhaust pipe
Removing the catalytic converter
Fitting a new catalytic converter
Checking everything is in working order
Conducting a final road test to determine whether all of the noises and smells have gone

All up, this process for replacement of the catalytic converter can take about two hours to complete.

What if your car needs a catalytic converter repair?

In most cases, your vehicle’s catalytic converter will require replacement, but there are circumstances where they can be repaired.

Sometimes the catalytic converter isn’t the sole issue. Worn or broken spark plugs, seals and gaskets may lead to unwanted substances passing into the system, while a dirty catalytic converter can send its filtering abilities into a spin. While these are easy fixes, they all require the attention and expertise of your local mycar mechanic.

How much is the catalytic converter price?

The catalytic converter cost begins at $500 and goes up to $2,000 - $3,000. On average, you may be looking at a total around the $1,000 mark. This is all dependent on the make/model of your car and also the amount of damage incurred. So how much does a catalytic converter cost for replacement or repair?

We’ve broken it down here:

Catalytic converter replacement cost	$500 - $3,000+
Catalytic converter repair cost	$500 - $2,500+

You’ll always receive an upfront quote from mycar on the expected cost of your catalytic converter, and we won’t carry out any extra work without talking to you first. To help make any unexpected costs easier, payment options range from cash and card through to Zip Pay and Afterpay.

What does a catalytic converter sound like when it is bad?

A bad catalytic converter will make a loud, rattling noise. Made from honeycomb-shaped components, when broken these pieces clatter around, which is its loudest when the car first starts, and noticeable while idling or driving.

Other signs to look out for include:

Dark exhaust smoke
A reduction in acceleration
Excessive heat coming from under the car
Sluggish engine performance
Engine misfire.
Car stalling
Losing fuel during acceleration
Jerking movements
Engine light illuminating

Keep an eye out for anything that doesn’t seem right and have a chat with one of our mechanics if we need to check for any issues.

Catalytic Converter Q&A

Is a car okay without a catalytic converter?

Yes, your car will be okay without a catalytic converter. It won’t damage the engine or your car. It’s a part of your vehicle’s exhaust system to help reduce air pollution.

How long can you drive around with a bad catalytic converter?

You can drive your car without a catalytic converter indefinitely, but it’s not recommended. Your car won’t be operating as efficiently and can cause damage to other components over time.