Replacing Catalytic Converter?

Question

Hi! I have a 1993 240 wagon that's in overall great condition. I've recently had it fully checked, had the AC refreshed (it's now so cold I want to spend the summer there), all new tires put on, and some front thingy replaced -- tie rod? Something like that. New brakes are looming in the near future, which will probably cost around $300-400. Anyway, about a week or two ago it started sounding a little throaty, if you know what I mean. This has happened previously and it turned out just to be a loose hose. I was hoping for the same thing this time. No such luck! I was told that the flange on the catalytic converter had rusted, and that I can't replace just the flange, but will have to replace the entire converter -- at a cost of around $900 (that's including labor). Ouch! I asked if there was a cheaper option and was told that there are some garages that might agree to weld the converter to the exhaust system, but then, if something goes wrong with one, everything would have to be replaced.

So, what do you all think? Are there better options that are also cheaper? I do know that my mechanic tends to be expensive (though they're also extremely good) so I don't mind getting some other quotes. Opinions?

Thanks much, Patricia

James Sweet · Accepted Answer

Any competent exhaust shop should be able to install an aftermarket cat, the one I put on my car was about $140 but then I installed it myself. I'm surprised the flange rusted off, catalytic converters are normally stainless. At any rate, try an exhaust shop rather than a general mechanic, they'll be all set up for this sort of thing.

Pat Quadlander · Answer

This website specializes in Volvo parts at competitive prices:

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Call them at their toll-free number to ensure you get the right part for your year and model. The part price is between $140 - $240 (much less than $900), plus you will need to pay a muffler shop to install it, relatively inexpensive (i.e., less than $100).

Patricia Butler · Answer

prices:>Excellent!  Thanks to both of you!Patricia

qandavolvo · Answer

We replaced our cat converter about three months ago for the same reason. We bought an after market from FCP Groton and it (cat) did not pass emissions test. Shop had another after market unit on shelf, so they put that one in and surprise-surprise it passed emissions. Don't know if its just bad luck or what, but we were glad we paid with credit card which offers insurance because Groton does not refund - you must purchase another one first, have it installed and send the bad one back. Good luck.

noLOGIC · Answer

I went to a mitsubishi dealer and he gave me a aftermarket cat from ''WALKER'' that I installed on my own I payed for it about 100USD and it works just fine, no problems with emissions etc...Pozzz!!!

Replacing Catalytic Converter?

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