[JasonAccord98LX]

Well I finally decided to bring my Accord to the dealer to have them deal with the check engine light. They told me that the codes that the computer spat out were for "cataylitic converter deterioration". I was surprised by this, since my car only has 60k miles on it. The service guy told me that it was fine to run my car like this with the light on. Does anyone know how my converter could deteriorate so soon?? And does the check engine light being on affect the performace of the car? Like does it go into a "limp" mode and disable VTEC or change the air/fuel ratio going to the engine? I am just curious because they told me that a new converter would cost 500-700 bucks. I would buy a used one anyway, but that would still run me 200 or so. Again they told me that it was fine to run the car, and that it would perform normal. Is this true? I know this is a long post, but i just want to make sure that i am doing the right thing. Thanks in advance.