cat convertor

[Tom94gaGT]

i have to replace my cat, im pretty sure that the insides are melted since it rattles like crazy when im driving or if i tap it with a rubber mallet. I was wondering if i should just go with teh OEM but from what ive read the gm cats arent very long lasting (im thinking this is true since ive only got 56k miles and need a replacemant already). What is a good aftermarket one to go with? should i get one built to factory specs? Also how many hours of labor should the job be, im shopping around and dont want to get ripped off

[gebster76]

i have a 2001 GA SE and I had to replace mine at 59,000 K so you are in company. I had mine taken to a muffler shop and it ran me i think....$220.00 total that included labor. I don't know how long it takes but I assume not long I left my car overnight and picked it up the next day.

[Madcat455]

Are they just making 00+ cars cheaper now??

My 96 GA GT, has 117k with no problems, original exhaust. Runs great.

Friend just bought a 01 GA GT, broken power seat, mirror adjuster, ABS needed work, check engine light on... Under warranty, but jeeze... 10k for a car she could only drive for 1 day so far.

My wifes 03 Taurus with 24K is in for them to replace the Cat on monday....

Although, you might want to check with your warranty, Ford warranties Emission componets for 80k (Dealer info). I'd assume GM would be similar.

Good Luck.

[GTP Dad]

There are a lot of things that can destroy a cat. Vibration, poor gasoline, coolant and a host of others. I would replace it with an aftermarket cat that can be purchased at most automotive stores or you can search the web for some very good ones. You can legally replace it since the car has more than 50k miles and is more than 7 years old. It doesn't matter if the cat is oem or aftermarket although if you are living in a state that requires emissions testing then you may want to go with one that meets all epa standards required for your make and model. The cost to replace the cat will vary depending on how easy it is to remove and if it is welded on it will take more labor time to weld it back into place once it has been cut out. I hope this helps. For anyone with a car that is less than 7 years or 70-80K miles old check your owners manual, most emissions systems are required to carry an extended warranty even though the vehicle warranty has expired.