Auto Parts: subaru part, midas muffler, monroe muffler

Question
I have a friend that needs to replace a catalytic converter on her 2000 subaru outback.  She has been told the part only will cost $1200.  The mechanic says this one year the part is different and that is why the cost is so high.  Could this be right?  I have looked online for this part and they all look like they are in the $300 range.  I have no idea about auto parts and neither does my friend.  I hope you can help me.

Answer
Hi Linda,

Unfortunately, I cannot legally advise you on where to purchase a cat-converter. I can tell you that you are on the right path by NOT trusting the dealership or whatever mechanic you took the vehicle to. You CAN install an aftermarket converter on your car but only at specific locations such as Monroe Muffler or Midas Muffler or any other exhaust specialty repair facility near you.

The vehicle is more than nine years old so I'd have to say in another nine years when the new, or aftermarket, converter needs to be replace again, you won't still be holing the title so go cheap an buy aftermarket if possible.

Looking for a reputable service technician? My advice on finding a good technician is: Steer clear of the dealership and 'chain' stores like Firestone, Sears, Pep Boys, Monro Muffler/Brake, Midas, etc. as they usually only employ ONE ASE Certified Tech just so they can say they do and chances are, that guy is the asst. manager or manager and is not in the store to diagnose/repair vehicles anyway. Find a service location in the link below or get some names out of the yellow-pages and do a drive-by. Garages that employ ASE Certified Technicians will be marked with the 'Blue-Seal' insignia. If unsure about whether a place employs Certified Techs, just ask to see their credentials. ALL ASE Certified Technicians will be PROUD to show and display their certificate(s).

Thanks for the question, I hope this information was helpful to you.
Fred
Knucklebusters Used Auto & Truck Parts, Inc.
www.knucklebusters.us
570-453-0910
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Click here: http://www.ase.com/bluesealsearch/locator.php