QuestionQUESTION: Hi there,
My CR-V '05 FWD is been making abnormal noise backing up and my engine light has been on solid for about a month now (I go to grad school and time is limited). I reluctantly took it into the Honda dealership and was told that the "rear brake pads" needed replacement and the "engine valve adjustment with outer gasket replacement". Whether that was actually the truth, I don't know. I did both for about $400 and was also told that the engine light is on because I do need to replace the catalytic converter. $1800. I just can't do it. How do I figure they are telling the truth? And is it really that expensive to replace it? What happens if I do not replace it?
Thank YOU!
ANSWER: You can buy that converter for less than $300, provided you don't live in California. CA emissions laws are extremely strict; if you live there you will have to go to the dealer. Otherwise you can buy the unit from rockauto.com at the lower price. Find an independent mechanic to check the ECM for proper diagnostics. Dealers have a habit of selling service you don't need at jacked-up prices. The brake pads were probably the only thing you really needed done, and you sure don't have to go to the dealer for something as simple as that.
---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------
QUESTION: Thank you! Yeah, I do live in CA (Stockton) and he was giving me "the converter is platinum and that's why it's so expensive" spiel. Apparently the cost of the converter alone is $1500. So, I actually don't have a choice, but go to the dealer with this? How is it that I can get this converter for $300 and they are asking for $1800? Is a converter, just a converter? Meaning, are they all the same?
Could you also tell me what the "engine valve adjustment" is for? I'm at 120 000 miles and he just really freaked me out with his suggestions.
Thank you so much for your help!
Answer Actually the converter is full of rare metals, most much rarer and more valuable than Platinum. The problem in CA is that the State requires all emissions equipment to meet their stringent standards. If you look up the $300 converter you will see a note attached saying that it is not legal for resale in CA. It's an expensive pain in the ass, but there's nothing you can do about it but move.
The valve adjustment is a necessary service item. If you have 120K miles on your Honda, then you need to get it done. Hondas are especially prone to failure in these components, so don't scrimp there.
