Cataylitic converter deterioration

[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.

[HONDA_99]

go back to dealer and them to replace it for free.
your car comes with emission warranty that last 5 years or 70,000 ml.

if dealer start to give you hard time you can call Honda customer service and file complain.

here is reason why dealer may give you hard time about replacing cataylitic converter;
dealer does not make a lot of money by doing warranty repairs (Honda doesn't pay them much), and your car is perfect candidate to be rip off (its very close to be off emission warranty).


just in case you need to contact Honda here some info:

By Phone
Monday through Friday, 6:00am to 5:00pm Pacific Standard time at the toll-free phone number (800) 999-1009

By Mail
American Honda Motor Co., Inc.
Honda Automobile Customer Service
Mail Stop 500-2N-7A
1919 Torrance Blvd.
Torrance, CA 90501-2746

BTW, you can get a free flow catalytic converter for about $200 at http://www.race-car-parts.com/oc/gro...dom/honda.html

[JasonAccord98LX]

Thanks a lot--I will tell the dealer that. I appreciate your response.