2013 Ford Focus Base SE engine light is ON code P0420 (catalyst system efficiency blow threshold bank 1), Ford dealer said to replace CAT converter, and P2837(Shift Fork B position circuit range/performance), Dealer said it will cost $1,600 to replace cat, that's just the part. Car overheats when its idle too. I told my sister who owns the car to just drive it until the wheels falls off however dealership told her if we dont change the CAT, it will fail the emission/inspection test. Is that true? Is there any remedies for this?
In some states like mine that require a smog test, if the CEL is ON they won’t even perform the test; they’ll turn you away. So not only does the CEL have to be turned off (which means fixing the problem causing it, otherwise comes back on again) but you also have to make sure the OBDII readiness monitors are completed or you will fail smog. In some states after a certain model year you can have up to 1 incomplete monitor and still pass. I don’t know all the requirements for your state. Also in my state aftermarket catalytic converters are allowed but they have to be from an approved list and have the proper ID on it for inspection. Even if I pass the normal smog diagnostic test, I can still fail the inspection portion of it for not having an approved catalytic converter with ID. You will have to check all your state requirements.
As for the P0420 code, it can be other things besides the catalytic converter. Best to check yourself or get a second opinion (independent, honest mechanic). Are you mechanically inclined to do some troubleshooting? See here for other causes and troubleshooting:
https://www.obd-codes.com/p0420
I've heard of a lot of issues with those, if it needs a cat, you might be able to use a generic one, for like 100 bucks. But, not positive. The cat can cause it to run not if it's clogged, there's usually a cause for.it getting clogged, though.
