QuestionQUESTION: Hi Von,
I believe we have the same model car (awesome car by the way). It's at 120K and things are starting to go wrong with the car. The mechanic told me that the catalytic converter would need to be replaced soon, but not immediately. I was wondering the average cost of the part - both factory and after market price? It would need to be a California part also, I'm not sure if that makes a difference in price or not.
Thanks!
ANSWER: Darwin,
If the car passes smog the converter would not be a problem. Yes, it is old and has many miles and the California smog people take this into account. I have replaced the oxygen sensors on mine and that made the car drive like it was new. Unless the converter is plugged or melted it does not need to be replaced. Have the mechanic show you the codes to say why the converters need to be replaced. There are three. Two small ones up front and a larger one under the center of the car.
---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------
QUESTION: Thanks for the quick response Von.
The mechanic told me that it might not pass the smog whenever the test comes up again, and that is the reason for replacement. I want to know if I must replace all 3 parts at once or just the defective piece? Also, the quote the mechanic gave me was around $600 for after market parts, and around $900 for Nissan factory parts. Does that sound about right, as when I tried to check online, most parts came up around $300 for aftermarket?
I will also consider replacing the oxygen sensors on my car as well, but will have them tested first.
Thanks again for all the information and help!
AnswerDarwin,
Replace the oxygen sensors first. I cannot imagine the converters going out unless you have a problem with injectors or the like. The oxygen sensors are the best bang for the buck when it comes to performance and fuel economy. If you are passing smog these are what provide the readings for the computer. The price you indicate for the converters is within reason.
