Volvo Repair: Replace catalytic converter?, volvo v70 wagon, 2001 volvo v70

Question
QUESTION: Hi,

My mother has a 2001 Volvo V70 wagon, turbo.  The check engine light is on and she took the car to a repair shop.  They said she needed a new catalytic converter and it would cost $1400.00.  Unfortunately the mileage on the car (102,000) means it's not eligible for the emissions warranty.

On the repair estimate, they wrote 'engine code 1431520'.  

So my questions:

1.  Do you think that engine code indicates the need to replace the catalytic converter?

2.  Does $1400.00 sound like an excessive price to do that?  They broke out the charge into three parts but they didn't explain the three parts.  One part was something like $290.00 (approximate figure...I don't have the estimate in front of me).  The next was $1100.00.  Then the last was $77.00.

Thank you so much!!

Fay

ANSWER: Fay, This is the 2nd time this week Ive had this one.  Yes, Its really that cost.  Not sure what that code means so its written in Chinese and not Volvo Language.  290 is probably the labor to install.  1100 is the price of the cat itself.  Sorry for the bad news.  Roger

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Hi Roger,

Thanks for the quick response.  I have now seen the estimate sheet and have discovered that the error code is actually P0422.  

1.  Does a P0422 mean replace the catalytic converter?

2.  The local Meineke shop has said that it would probably cost under $500 to replace the cat (though they have not actually seen the car).  I'm assuming the $1100 for the cat is a Volvo part.  Do you have any opinion on the reliability of aftermarket parts versus Volvo parts for something like a catalytic converter?

3.  Is using a salvaged catalytic converter (like from a wrecked Volvo where the damage was not in that area) a possibility?  

Thanks again for your help!

Fay

ANSWER: Fay, Do NOT let those butchers put a cat on that car.  It will wind up costing you more later.  Try a salvage yard we use.  WWW.erie-vovo.com and they should have a decent unit.  I dont use PO COdes.  What comes up as a code on the Volvo computer is 3-way cat, effienciency loss.  We have a car in the shop now, and the cat is clogged.  She bought one from Erie and we are installing it.  Roger

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Thanks again so much!  

That's quite a reaction to Meineke.  It would be interesting to know what sort of negative experience you've seen with cars they've worked on.  I've used Midas before (though not with a Volvo) and have had good luck.

Anyway, thanks for the information about Erie.  I'll check it out.

And one last question.  If my mother did not replace the cat, would it eventually damage her car?  We don't have emissions inspections in our state.

Thanks!

Answer
Fay, I have seen so much garbage work over the years its not even funny.  She is probably okay for a while but if the inside of the cat comes apart, then there will be no flow going through the exhaust system and the car will not even move much.  That is what I have with that ladies car.  Cat has come apart and there is no flow.  Let me know how things work out for you.  Roger