QuestionHello again. Thank you so much for all of your help up to this point - you really have been a huge help.
I took your advice and had the O2 sensors cleaned, the codes cleared, and on the way home - CEL on again.
Since this mis-fire has been an issue since October - I'm afraid that the catalytic converter is going to have to be replaced to fix this.
Or...do you think I should replace just the sensors - or replace the whole thing. O2 sensors and front catalytic converter? I was quoted $600 from a muffler shop here to just replace the front cat. Not including the O2 sensors. That seemed a bit pricey to me - what do you think?
I'm really at a loss. Odometer is now at 19,650. I know - I know - no car note - but still - I'm starting to not like my little car - which is not good!!
Thank you!!!
Leigha
AnswerMaintenance and up keep are part of anything with wheels. Trust when I say this, Miatas, especially at 19k, will be around for a long long long time. Once this issue is resolved your likely never to see it again. A few bucks here and there and the Miata will repay you well in use. I have been working on these cars for 20 years now, I can tell you what will be something you have to deal with and what will last seemingly forever. This exhaust issue is common though the failed item is always one or the other it is limited to a few parts and not by any means a cataclysmic event in your cars life.
First thing, I seriously doubt you have a converter failure, they are tough.
I can't find previous conversation with you so excuse me if I repeat myself. First get the MIL code (CEL). Let me know what it is. My guess you need a #1 h2os. Let see the code first. Second, if the converter "is" bad a stop for an emissions check will tell, the tail pipe cannot tell a lie but, don't go that route just yet. Get the code read. Some high end parts stores can check OBD2 systems and they do it for free. Dealers typically charge about $75.
The most common issue would be the #1 (first) Ho2s sensor
In some rare cases I have seen both front and rear fail.
EGR pipe connections at the manifold and on the intake could bleed air which would cause the MIL also, though again here, doubtful.
It is extremely rare to have the converter fail, though not impossible, again with 19k extremely doubtful.
Do NOT let a "muffler" shop cut on your Miatas exhaust. Everything on the exhaust system is bolt on. People get the misconception that exhaust work needs to be done by a muffler shop, most muffler shops are hacks cutting and welding on universal parts, quick and easy for them - detrimental to your Miata. At some point in time you will need exhaust work done, buy the right parts made to fit and have them bolted on when the time comes. You will thank me.
service@miatashop.com
"if your good at what you do you should be well paid"
