Exhaust
Catalytic Converter
A catalytic converter uses precious-metal coatings to turn harmful exhaust gases into less harmful ones before they leave the tailpipe. We list 41 catalytic converters from $65 to $1188 for 1979-2021 vehicles, from brands such as Eastern Catalytic, Magnaflow, Bosal and Walker, with fits for the Chevrolet Equinox, Corvette, Silverado 1500 and Honda Accord.
Shop catalytic converter by vehicle
Signs of a failing converter
The most common sign is a check engine light with a catalyst efficiency code such as P0420. A rattle from under the vehicle can mean the internal substrate has broken apart. A clogged converter restricts exhaust flow, which causes poor acceleration, low power at highway speeds and sometimes overheating under the vehicle. A strong rotten egg smell can also point to the converter. Converters usually fail because of another problem, such as misfires, oil burning or a coolant leak, so fix the cause first or the new unit can fail too.
Federal or California emissions
Emissions rules decide which converter you can legally install. Federal or EPA-compliant converters are sold for the 49 states that follow federal rules. California, and some other states that adopted California rules, require a CARB-approved converter listed for your exact vehicle and engine. Check the label on your vehicle's emissions sticker under the hood and your state's rules before you order. Series names in this category include Standard Load, Premium Load, OEM Grade and California.
Position, flanges and sensor ports
V6 and V8 engines often use more than one converter, so listings are marked front left, front right, rear, center and so on. Match the outlet type, such as a 2 bolt or 3 bolt flange or a pipe connection, to your exhaust. Check the number of O2 sensor ports. Direct-fit units bolt in where the original was. Many include gaskets and hardware. Let the exhaust cool fully and support the vehicle on stands before working underneath.
Catalytic Converter questions
Can I install a federal catalytic converter in California?
Generally no. California requires a CARB-approved converter that is listed for your specific vehicle and engine. Some other states follow the same rules. Check your vehicle's emissions label and your state's requirements before buying.
Will a new catalytic converter fix a P0420 code?
Only if the converter is the actual cause. A failing downstream O2 sensor, an exhaust leak or engine misfires can also trigger P0420. Rule those out first, and fix any misfire before installing a new converter.
How do I know which side converter I need?
On engines with two banks, the driver side and passenger side converters are often different parts. Look at where yours is mounted, check the listing position, and compare the part number on the old unit if it is readable.