How much should it cost to have my catalytic converter replaced in my '98 Honda Civic EX?

Question

My engine light is on, and my mechanic has identified it as the problem, but I think he wants too much. Car is running fine though. A new O2 sensor didn't do the trick. 190,000 miles. If it's not too much, I'll fix it before I sell it.

Answer 1

if the catalytic converter is diminished in capacity to process exhaust gasses on your car it will cause a code P0430. If that's the code your technician got when he checked for the code then you don't have an option but to replace the converter with a factory unit. On the Civic that converter is a part of the exhaust manifold and you'll be looking at about $1000. at a minimum to replace it.

if you don't live in a country or State with emissions testing then there is no problem with driving the car; it won't cause you to break down, it will only cause excessive emissions as the converter loses its ability to process the gasses. If you live in a state or country with emissions testing then you'll have up until the time that the test is due to fix it because the car won't pass an emissions test with the check engine light on.

There is no aftermarket company that makes an OBDII compliant replacement catalytic converter for Honda cars (one that is certified for use in California). Junkyards can't sell used catalytic converters so that's not an option. there are converters available for OBD I cars but yours is not in that catagory.

be sure the code your technician is getting is for the catalyst. If he's just guessing (my guess is he is because of the Oxygen SEnsor that was repalced first) then have the car diagnosed first before you condem the converter. If it is the converter, then you have a decision to make

hope that answers your question

Answer 2

I don't know much about 98' but my 99' the cat is seperate from the manifold... Actually I believe 96-00 has the same cat on the EX. Check out www.nopi.com (online catalog)theirs typically run $120-500 and are bolt up which is usually about $30-50 to have someone put it on for you. A stock cat should run about $300 I think and will also be a bolt up (bolt up cheapest to have installed doesnt take long to put on at all)

Answer 3

It depends on many things

Answer 4

a converter will cost you $200.00