How Much Should It Cost to Replace a Catalytic Converter?

Most catalytic converter replacements in the U.S. run about $300–$1,200 with aftermarket parts and $900–$3,500+ with OEM parts; hybrids, European/luxury models, multi-catalyst systems, and diesels can exceed $4,000–$6,000. Prices vary by vehicle, local labor rates, emissions rules (CARB states typically cost more), and whether additional parts like oxygen sensors are needed.

What Drives the Price

Several technical and market factors determine how much you’ll pay for a catalytic converter replacement. Understanding these helps explain why quotes vary widely between vehicles and ZIP codes.

• Vehicle design: Some cars use a “manifold cat” integrated with the exhaust manifold, which raises parts cost; V6/V8 and some AWD vehicles may have two or more converters.
• Parts choice: Aftermarket (EPA or CARB-compliant) is usually cheaper than OEM. CARB-compliant units cost more than federal EPA-only units.
• Location and regulations: California, New York, Colorado, and Maine require CARB-compliant aftermarket converters, increasing cost.
• Labor time and rates: Typical labor is 1.0–3.0 hours, higher on rusted or tightly packaged systems; shop rates often range $90–$180/hr independent, $150–$250/hr dealer.
• Additional parts: Oxygen sensors, gaskets, clamps, and hardware may add $50–$500+.
• Theft or damage: Stolen converters often require extra pipe repair; many owners add a theft shield for $200–$500 installed.
• Diesel systems: Diesel aftertreatment (DPF/SCR) is different and often far more expensive than gasoline catalysts.

Taken together, these factors explain why two vehicles can have very different final bills, even at the same shop.

Typical Price Ranges by Scenario

Here are ballpark ranges you can expect in common situations, assuming U.S. parts and labor in 2025. Your exact quote will depend on your VIN, local market, and condition of the exhaust.

• Aftermarket (federal/EPA) direct-fit on many gasoline cars: $300–$1,200 total (parts $150–$800; labor $100–$400).
• Aftermarket CARB-compliant (required in CA, NY, CO, ME): $800–$2,200 total for many models; hybrids and newer models often $1,200–$3,000.
• OEM/factory converter: $900–$3,500+ total; manifold-integrated or multi-catalyst systems can reach $4,000–$6,000+.
• Hybrids (e.g., Toyota Prius) and many European models: Commonly $1,500–$3,500; OEM often on the higher end.
• Diesel aftertreatment (DPF/SCR catalysts): Frequently $2,000–$6,000+ due to costly components and additional parts.

These ranges reflect parts availability, precious metal content, and the extra time needed for complex or rusted systems.

State Emissions Rules and Legality

Where you live affects what can legally be installed on your vehicle and therefore the price you’ll pay.

• CARB-compliant requirement: California, New York, Colorado, and Maine require CARB-approved aftermarket catalytic converters; they carry an Executive Order (EO) number that must match your vehicle/engine family.
• EPA rules elsewhere: In other states, an EPA-compliant aftermarket converter is typically allowed and cheaper.
• Used converters: It’s illegal in the U.S. to install a used catalytic converter from another vehicle; replacements must be new and certified.
• Tampering: Removing or defeating a catalytic converter is illegal and can fail inspections and trigger fines.

Always ask your shop to list the part number and, in CARB states, the EO number on your estimate and invoice.

Labor, Time, and Extra Parts

Your final bill includes more than just the converter; labor time and related components can move a quote up or down.

• Labor time: Typically 1.0–3.0 hours; heavily rusted fasteners or complex packaging may add time.
• Oxygen sensors: Often seized or damaged; replacement runs $100–$400 each, parts and labor.
• Gaskets, clamps, hardware: Commonly $20–$80 extra.
• Pipe repair/welding: If the unit was cut out (theft), expect additional fabrication costs.

On older or high-mileage vehicles, planning for at least one sensor or hardware add-on is realistic.

When Insurance or Warranty Pays

Before you pay out of pocket, check whether coverage applies; this can significantly reduce your cost.

• Comprehensive insurance: Typically covers theft and vandalism, minus your deductible. Include shields or related exhaust repairs in your claim.
• Federal emissions warranty: 8 years/80,000 miles on the catalytic converter and engine control module for new vehicles.
• California/PZEV coverage: Some models have extended emissions warranties up to 15 years/150,000 miles; check your owner’s manual or VIN-specific coverage.
• Recalls/TSBs: In rare cases, a software update or recall addresses converter-related issues.

Confirm coverage details with your insurer or dealer before authorizing repairs.

Cost Examples for Popular Vehicles (Estimates)

These representative figures illustrate typical 2025 pricing; actual quotes depend on condition, region, and part choice.

• Toyota Prius (2004–2015): $1,800–$3,000 in CARB states; $800–$1,800 in non-CARB with aftermarket; OEM higher.
• Honda Accord 4-cyl (early 2000s–2010s): $600–$1,400 aftermarket; $1,200–$2,500 OEM/manifold-cat versions.
• Ford F-150 V8 (2009–2016): $1,000–$2,500 depending on single vs. dual cats and parts choice.
• BMW/Mercedes (manifold-integrated): $2,000–$5,000+ OEM; premium aftermarket can reduce but remains high.
• Diesel pickups (DPF/SCR components): $2,500–$6,000+ depending on which modules are replaced.

Use these as guideposts only; always request a VIN-specific quote that includes emissions certification details.

How to Avoid Unnecessary Replacement

Catalyst efficiency codes (like P0420/P0430) don’t always mean the converter itself is bad. Proper diagnosis can save you hundreds or thousands.

• Fix root causes first: Address misfires, oil burning, coolant leaks, or a bad upstream O2 sensor that can trigger false catalyst codes.
• Verify with live data: A technician can compare upstream/downstream O2 sensor activity and run mode-6 data to confirm catalyst performance.
• Check for exhaust leaks: Leaks ahead of the downstream sensor can mimic a failed cat.
• Use quality fuel and ensure the engine is fully warm before testing.

If the underlying issue isn’t corrected, a new converter can fail prematurely or the check-engine light can return.

How to Get a Fair Quote

A clear, itemized estimate helps you compare apples to apples and ensures the part meets legal requirements.

1. Ask for an itemized estimate showing parts, labor hours, shop rate, and fees.
2. Request the exact part number and, in CARB states, the EO number matched to your VIN/engine family.
3. Confirm whether oxygen sensors, gaskets, and hardware are included.
4. Get quotes from at least two reputable shops (independent and dealer if possible).
5. Clarify warranty terms on parts and labor (many aftermarket cats offer 2–5 years; OEM varies).

Documenting these details helps you avoid surprises and ensures compliance with emissions laws.

Theft Prevention and Post-Theft Choices

Converter theft remains a risk in many areas. Preventive steps and smart post-theft choices can reduce costs and downtime.

• Install a theft shield or cage where available, especially on high-risk models like Prius and trucks.
• Park in well-lit, secure areas; consider cameras or fenced parking.
• Etch the VIN and apply high-temperature paint to deter resale.
• After theft, consider a direct-fit CARB/EPA-compliant unit to speed installation; file a comprehensive claim if insured.

While no measure is foolproof, layered deterrents can lower your risk and insurance exposure.

Bottom Line

For most gasoline cars, expect $300–$1,200 with aftermarket parts and $900–$3,500+ with OEM; hybrids, luxury/European, multi-cat setups, and diesel aftertreatment can run much higher. Prices hinge on parts type (OEM vs. aftermarket, EPA vs. CARB), local labor, and any extra repairs. Always verify legality, check insurance/warranty, and confirm the root cause before replacing.

Summary

Catalytic converter replacement costs vary widely: $300–$1,200 for many aftermarket jobs, $900–$3,500+ for OEM, and more for hybrids, diesels, and multi-catalyst systems. CARB-state requirements, labor time, and add-ons like oxygen sensors drive totals higher. Protect yourself by confirming diagnosis, ensuring the correct certified part, comparing itemized quotes, and leveraging insurance or emissions warranties where applicable.

Can I drive a car with a bad catalytic converter?

You can drive a car with a bad catalytic converter, but it’s not recommended due to potential engine damage, decreased performance, reduced fuel efficiency, increased pollution, and the risk of a completely failed engine or a fire. It’s best to have it serviced and replaced as soon as possible to avoid severe issues and potential engine failure. 
Why you shouldn’t drive with a bad catalytic converter:

• Engine Damage: A severely clogged converter can cause a misfire, leading to engine damage or even complete engine failure. 
• Reduced Performance: You’ll likely experience less power, sluggish acceleration, and poor gas mileage. 
• Overheating: A failing catalytic converter can overheat, creating a fire risk. 
• Increased Pollution: A bad converter releases more harmful pollutants into the air, harming the environment. 
• Failed Emissions Test: You will likely fail an emissions test if the converter isn’t working properly. 
• Stalling: A completely blocked converter could cause the engine to die while driving, leaving you stranded. 

When to get it serviced immediately: 

• You notice a sulfur (rotten egg) smell from the exhaust.
• Your car has dark exhaust smoke.
• The vehicle is overheating under the hood.
• You feel a significant loss of power.
• The engine is having trouble starting or staying running.

Is it worth replacing your catalytic converter?

Yes, it is worth replacing a faulty catalytic converter because it is a critical component that removes toxic emissions, and driving without one can cause your engine to fail, reduce fuel efficiency, and lead to failed emissions tests and potential legal issues. While costly, the replacement prevents more extensive engine damage, ensures your vehicle is environmentally compliant, and allows it to pass mandatory smog checks. 
Reasons to Replace a Bad Catalytic Converter

• Environmental Compliance: A functioning catalytic converter is essential to reduce harmful tailpipe emissions, making it a legal requirement in many states to pass an emissions test or smog check. 
• Engine Protection: A failing or clogged converter restricts exhaust flow, forcing the engine to work harder, which can lead to reduced engine performance and eventual engine damage, including blown engine seals or failure. 
• Fuel Efficiency: By restoring proper exhaust flow, a new catalytic converter allows the engine to operate more efficiently, leading to better fuel economy. 
• Preventing Further Damage: A severely clogged converter can cause the exhaust system, and even the engine, to overheat, leading to significant and expensive damage. 

Signs of a Failing Catalytic Converter

• Rattling Noise: A failing converter may produce a rattling sound from the exhaust system. 
• Reduced Engine Performance: A sluggish engine or difficulty accelerating can be a sign of restricted exhaust flow. 
• Check Engine Light: The “Check Engine” light on your dashboard often illuminates when the catalytic converter is not functioning correctly. 
• Sulfur Smell: A strong rotten-egg (sulfur) smell from the exhaust can indicate a problem with the converter. 
• Failed Emissions Test: The most conclusive sign that your converter isn’t working is failing a smog or emissions inspection. 

Considerations Before Replacement

• Underlying Causes: A catalytic converter fails prematurely due to other issues, so it’s crucial to diagnose and fix the root cause, such as an engine misfire or a faulty O2 sensor, before replacing the converter. 
• Cost: Catalytic converters contain valuable precious metals and can be expensive, so compare prices from different shops and consider the vehicle’s overall value. 

How much should I expect to pay for a catalytic converter?

between $2,224 and $2,309
How Much Is a Catalytic Converter? The average cost of having a new catalytic converter installed is between $2,224 and $2,309, according to the car repair estimate site RepairPal. However, this won’t necessarily be the absolute cost range for every person who needs to get one.

Can I replace a catalytic converter myself?

Yes, you can replace a catalytic converter yourself if you have the right tools, mechanical knowledge, and a safe working environment, but difficulty varies significantly by vehicle. Some vehicles have bolted-on, direct-fit converters that are relatively easy to swap, while others have welded-in converters or integrated exhaust manifolds, requiring cutting and welding skills that most DIYers don’t possess. Safety precautions, like using jack stands and working on a cold engine, are crucial. 
This video demonstrates how to replace a catalytic converter in a car that was stolen: 59sChrisFixYouTube · Aug 29, 2024
Factors to Consider

• Vehicle Specificity: Some cars are much simpler to work on than others. 
• Type of Installation: Converters can be bolted on, or they may be welded into the exhaust system. 
• Your Mechanical Skill: You’ll need a good understanding of car mechanics, and you should be comfortable working with hand tools and potentially power tools like a reciprocating saw. 
• Tool Availability: You’ll need basic hand tools, including sockets, wrenches, penetrating oil, and possibly a jack and jack stands to safely lift the vehicle. 
• Cutting and Welding: If your vehicle has a welded-in converter, you will need the ability to cut the old one out and properly weld the new one in, or use an exhaust clamp and seal to temporarily join the pieces, though this is less ideal. 

This video shows how to replace a catalytic converter in a car with bolt-on catalytic converters: 44sScotty KilmerYouTube · Apr 21, 2011
Steps to Take

1. Check Your Vehicle’s Specifics: Research how the catalytic converter is attached to your specific make and model of vehicle. 
2. Gather Tools and Parts: You’ll need the new converter, new gaskets, appropriate sockets, a wrench, and possibly a cheater bar for stubborn bolts. 
3. Ensure Safety: Park the vehicle on a flat surface, engage the parking brake, and use jack stands to safely support the vehicle. Do not rely on a jack alone. 
4. Access the Converter: Locate the catalytic converter under the vehicle, which is usually positioned near the engine. 
5. Remove the Old Converter: Disconnect the oxygen sensors, then unbolt the flanges holding the converter. If it’s a welded-in unit, you will need to carefully cut it out. 
6. Install the New Converter: Position the new converter, ensuring you have new gaskets, and reattach the bolts. 
7. Test for Leaks: Start the vehicle and spray soapy water on the connections to check for exhaust leaks. 
8. Properly Dispose of the Old Converter: Old catalytic converters contain precious metals and should be disposed of properly or recycled. 

Important Considerations

• Check Engine Light: You may need to reset your check engine light after installation. 
• Underlying Issues: A catalytic converter often fails because of an underlying engine problem, such as one that causes it to run too hot or consume too much oil. You must fix the root cause to prevent the new converter from failing.