My Catalytic converter was sawed out of my Honda Element, I really dread to replace it even with an aftermarket, for fear of it being stolen again, because CC theft is frequent in my town, I called the police and straight up asked( Can I just put a straightpipe on?), She said I could here in Mississippi, Would this method harm my cars engine, I'm very limited in money, for I only work part time. My insurance will not cover it, because I have plain liability coverage, thanks in advance😊
Also, are there any converters I can get that won't attract thieves?
It won't hurt your engine. You'll have to live with the check engine light being constantly illuminated.
The problem you'll run into is finding somebody to do it.
It's against federal (EPA) law, (and State laws in around 45 states) to replace the cat with a straight pipe.
Getting caught doing it can result in fines of $10,000 so no licensed car repair shop will do it for you.
You'll have to do it yourself or find a friend that can do it for you.
I asked the police, they told me that our state didn't have Emissions testing, and I was able to get a straightpipe without being in trouble with the law. I have only plain liability, so insurance won't cover anything. Im paying out of pocket, and looking for a solution, I dont3 want to put another CC on only to have it stolen again.
So Im considering a straight pipe. But I know nothing about piping. And Im wondering if its loud, because I like a quiet ride. Thank you
Also, are there any converters I can get that won't attract thieves?
No. All CC's use precious metals to clean up the exhaust.
Adequate insurance coverage is cheaper than a new CC.
I asked the police, they told me that our state didn't have Emissions testing, and I was able to get a straightpipe without being in trouble with the law.
It's your personal responsibility to be familiar with law, not the police. Your municipal police don't speak for federal law enforcement. Like Jack said, federal law supersedes any state law. So if authorities want to stop you, they legally can.
I hope you told them about the theft.
“We are always looking for people to come forward and report these crimes so we can build a database and determine where we need to patrol more,” police say.
Of course I told them, I made a report, I looked it up, Mississippi laws are lenient on pipes, I still may get an aftermarket, I'm just asking opinions right now, I'm still processing it, this has upset me very much, because of the financial setback it's gonna cause me. Thanks
I understand, but that won't help you if you're stopped by an official from any of the federal branches like DOT, or even a local officer having a bad day. It's better to have the law on your side. Never trust a cop.
Thanks Fellows, I appreciate your feedback. I'm going for the aftermarket and hope for the best, I'll get a shield later.
beware. A lot of those shields are scams too.
so no licensed car repair shop will do it for you.
Jack is correct. Licensed shops will not touch it, so I suggest your 1st step should be making some calls to shops, not police.
I dont3 want to put another CC on only to have it stolen again.
Like I said, insurance is cheaper than replacing the CC.
Mississippi recently clamped down on scrap metal dealers, so visibly engraving your VIN on the CC will deter thieves.
I do have auto insurance, but no comprehensive, I've learned my lesson. Thanks
The cost of comprehensive is usually pretty reasonable and in addition to theft/vandalism, it also covers things like fire, flood, hail, animal strike and junk hitting your windshield on the highway. Worth it if you ask me.
Agree with you @mmj. So far my full coverage/comprehensive is costing less than liability and damage etc. part (the required components of auto insurance).
The following channel will provide you with a visual of what is involved with replacing the cat:
Stolen catalytic converter Honda Element? Open for an explanation!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=q3XRZOqYyAY
Do you have neighbors? They will love your loud car going through the hood.
hopefully she means bypassing the CC, not the muffler.
OK, yeah that makes sense. We have a few in my neighborhood with straight pipes that bypasses everything.