Do you have to replace the Catalytic Converter when Catalyst efficiency below threshold (bank 2)?

Question

I have an 1998 Audi A4 Quattro. I want to know if you generally replace it or can it be repaired, cleaned, etc.?

Answer 1

There is no cleaning or repairing a cat. It works chemically and if the catalyst is missing or damaged, game over.

Answer 2

I assume the code was a P0430? Catalyst Efficiency Below Threshold does not mean you have a bad Cat. It could be, but there may be a halfdozen different causes for that code that are unrelated to the Cat.

First thing to do is to clear the code and see if it comes back. Make sure you are running the proper octane of gas. If your running 89 and your car takes 92 for example you might as well put the money you save on gas in a can to pay for the catalytic converter you are going to have to buy later.

If you clear the code and it comes back, have the problem properly diagnosed and potentially save yourself a lot of money. It would be a shame to throw a $6-800 catalytic converter in the car only to find out the real problem was a fouled connector on the downstream O2 sensor for example.

Answer 3

Buy all new O2 sensors, spray PB Blaster on the thread area of the sensors and change them. Clear the code and see if the code comes back. If it does, you will have to bite the bullet and buy a new catalytic converter. Since it had 125k on it, the O2 sensors needed to be changed anyway.

Answer 4

You generally replace a converter , laws suggest it stay on a car or risk getting caught and fined. But i havent heard of anyone repairing one.

Answer 5

When you go to a place that does state inspections, they'll be able to tell you what you can "get by with" if anything. They know the rules on that regarding passing safety and state requirements.

Answer 6

have it tested first... all emission parts are guaranteed per govt regulation for 10 years..the dealer should charge nothing..