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Catalytic Converter Replacement Near You

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What is a Catalytic Converter Replacement?

A catalytic converter replacement returns your vehicle’s exhaust system to proper working condition.

A catalytic converter, or cat for short, speeds up the removal of harmful exhaust gases produced during combustion, making your vehicle more environmentally friendly, in line with Euro standards.

The replacement process usually removes the faulty or worn-out catalytic converter and fits a new part in its place, but it can also involve fitting a completely new cat if yours was stolen.

 

Who Can Help with My Catalytic Converter Repair?

You can book a catalytic converter replacement at most static garages. Some mobile mechanics may also offer the service, but this is less likely as it is a lot of work to fit a new cat and can be difficult to do without a ramp.

 

Where Can I Book a Catalytic Converter Replacement?

To find a local garage to help you fix your catalytic converter, you can search directly for ‘catalytic converter replacement near me’ which will show a list of local garages that offer this service.

If you’re looking for the best place to replace your catalytic converter, you can either ask family and friends for a good recommendation or compare local garages to find the best one for you. We always recommend comparing your options before booking an appointment to ensure you get the best deal on your repair.

 

What are the Signs My Car Needs its Catalytic Converter Replaced?

If you notice any of the following symptoms, then you may have a bad catalytic converter:

  • An illuminated warning light
  • Slower engine performance
  • The engine cuts out
  • Reduced acceleration range
  • Increased fuel consumption
  • Excessive white smoke
  • Blue smoke
  • A rattling noise from the exhaust
  • Additional heat under your car
  • Smell of rotten eggs from exhaust
  • Dark smoke from exhaust

 

Another good sign you need to book a replacement is if you look under your car and can’t see your catalytic converter attached to the exhaust system.

 

Can I Replace a Catalytic Converter Myself?

No, you shouldn’t attempt to repair or replace your catalytic converter yourself. It’s a vital part of your exhaust system and you can cause serious and expensive problems if you botch a repair or replacement.

You should leave the repair to a professional, experienced technician who has the required specialist equipment to complete the job safely.

 

Catalytic Converter Guides

Learn more about this vital car part, and how to protect it, with these informative guides.

 

How Much Does a Catalytic Converter Cost?

 

FAQs

Frequently asked questions

Can I Repair a Catalytic Converter Instead of Replacing it?

Yes, you may be able to repair a catalytic converter if the part is damaged or worn as opposed to missing.

A technician will be able to advise you on the safest course of action during their inspection.

How Long Does a Catalytic Converter Last?

A catalytic converter should last between 70,000 and 100,000 miles, though this will vary depending on your driving habits.

What Causes the Catalytic Converter to Wear Out?

The following issues can cause your car’s catalytic converter to wear out sooner than necessary:
- Poor engine maintenance
- Using the wrong oil
- Coolant leaks
- Broken oxygen sensor
- Misfiring spark plugs

You may also wear the part out if you constantly use your vehicle for short trips. The catalytic converter only works when it reaches a certain temperature and, if it doesn't get hot enough, it will not burn the hydrocarbons completely.

How Long Does a Catalytic Converter Replacement Take?

A catalytic converter replacement takes about 1 to 2 hours, on average.

Why is a Replacement So Expensive Then?

While a car repair is usually expensive because of the labour costs involved, a catalytic converter replacement is a fairly straightforward job. It’s expensive because of the precious metals used to make the part.

Cats contain platinum, or platinum-like metals such as palladium and rhodium, as a catalyst – and these can cost between £30 and £600 a gram because of their rarity! Plus, the price of these precious metals keeps fluctuating, so the cost of your repair or replacement can change regularly.

Does My Car Need a Catalytic Converter?

Yes, your car needs a catalytic converter.

By law, every car registered in the UK must have one. This has been standard for petrol vehicles since 1992, and 2001 for diesel vehicles.

There are different types of catalytic converters for petrol and diesel engines, as they combust differently.

Where Can I Find My Catalytic Converter?

It is bolted to the exhaust assembly underneath the back of your car.

If you can’t see it, you should have your car towed to a local garage right away as you may be the victim of catalytic converter theft which is becoming an increasing problem in the UK.

Can I Drive My Car Without a Catalytic Converter?

No, it’s illegal to drive a car on public roads in the UK without a catalytic converter and you can be fined up to £1,000 if caught doing so by the police.

Not only that, it will lead to an MOT failure (as your car won’t pass the emissions test) and you may cause additional damage to your exhaust system in the long-term as modern cars are designed to use this part while running.