Hi Scotty,
My 2008 honda element catalytic converter got stolen after one week from purchasing the car. Now, I am stuck with the car. I am searching for a catalytic converter that is cheap so theives wouldn't be interested in and something would make me pass the inspection with no check engine light creeping out all the time. Help!!.
Buying a cheaper catalytic converter will not deter thieves. They won't know the difference. Some have even been known to take mufflers thinking they are catalytic converters.
The only way you're going to pass inspection is to replace the converter.
I will replace the converter but I saw a lot of drivers putting those aftermarket ones and then the check engine light will always come up and it will be hard to get rid of it. Thats why I am hoping if someone has a good experience with a decent converter that will not cost a lot and at the same time will not make the check engine light come up, at least when I am about to get the car inspected.
You'll probably have a better shot at getting personal experiences with replacement converters on a forum devoted to that vehicle.
https://www.elementownersclub.com/
https://hondaforum.com/forum/element-forum-14/
searching for a catalytic converter that is cheap
catalytic converters cost as much as they do because they contain precious metals inside. These metals are what make the converter do it's job. It doesn't work without them. There is no way around it I'm afraid.
The best protection against converter theft is a garage. The 2nd best thing is a good insurance policy.
Walker is a decent brand, apparently Magnaflow is of slightly higher quality. I would definitely stick to top tier gasoline also.
You need to have some kind of metal shield installed, or other anti theft device (such as the Cat Strap) over the new cat the same day you have it replaced to deter a repeat theft
