A catalytic converter costs what?!?!?!

2 messages, Last post on May 15, 2008 at 7:56 PM

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#1 of 2 A catalytic converter costs what?!?!?! by jashcraft Apr 17, 2008 (5:47 am)
Let me start by saying I love my Element. I have since I got it brand new in 2004. Now, after much discussion and debate, the tech believes the hesitation that I have is caused by a plugged up catalytic converter. Cost to replace: $1675. I have done a bit of research and have found that the average cost to replace a cat in most cars is between $250 and $350. Needless to say, I am less in love with the Element than I was before. This is a poor design on the part of Honda if one part (such a small part) costs nearly 9% of the new car cost to replace. I looked up replacement parts online and found ones that you might be able to make work, but that is not how I like to do things. I want it right and I don't want to have to make something work. I found one place that sold the part as a manufacturer replica if you will, and it was nearly as expensive as the part from my Honda Dealer. I am not happy with the design folks at Honda. This is ridiculous and makes me wonder how much other "special" design I am going to have to repair if I keep the vehicle indefinitely.
#2 of 2 A good exhaust shop can fab one up. by cz75 May 15, 2008 (7:56 pm)
They make universal cats in several dimensions, requiring only flanges and O2 sensor bungs be fitted. A good place to get this done for Hondas is SMS Products. Costs a third of OEM, or less, and are high flow to boot.