Hello guys, my catalytic converter just got stolen yesterday. It is a Honda accord 2005 LX 2dr 2.4L automatic transmission with 230,000 miles and I live in California. The problem with living in California is that their emission laws and testing for smog tests are strict. Therefore, leaving me with either having to buy a really expensive aftermarket or OEM one instead of a cheap aftermarket one. The car runs great and everything. Is it worth it to put money into the car? I am a student and I don't know what to do, any advice, please?
You have to replace it with a C.A.R.B. (California Air Resources Board) approved cat. Sorry. $$$
Best deal I could find for a CARB approved cat was Rock Auto - Walker #82895 - $420.99
Don't beat yourself up over this, it isn't your fault.
As painful as it will be, I would purchase an OEM converter to make sure you can pass the emissions test.
I would also add an anti-theft device.
If your cat was stolen call your insurance and they’ll replace it? That’s why you have insurance in the first place is accidental and theft. We do cat thefts under peoples insurance weekly it seems like
Hello!
Similar questions. Perhaps they help.
https://carkiller.com/scottykilmer/qa/stolen-catalytic-converter-help/
https://carkiller.com/scottykilmer/qa/2008-prius-with-stolen-catalytic-converter/
Good luck!
Unfortunately those living in the Peoples' Republic are stuck with these kind of problems. No wonder so many people are leaving. You asked for advice on what to do, if it were me I would join the exodus.
I joined the exodus, 20 years ago.
The place has turned into an asylum run by the inmates. Very unfortunate, it used to have so much to offer. Even that huckster Elon Musk couldn't take it any more and moved his vampire-like electric car company to Texas.
Texas is terrible. Lived here almost all my life, sadly, and would leave tomorrow if the opportunity presented itself. This state is overrun with the stupid.
I take it that's why Scotty left for Tennessee. Texas has become overrun with California refugees. Still not as bad as CA though.
{pear}:wink:
One of my friends from CA went to Nevada to get the cat replaced. They did the research to find a compatible direct fit cat. Got the cat shipped (or ordered through) a muffler shop. And had the muffler shop install it. Not sure if it is still possible, but might be worth a shot.
Depending on when your next emissions test is, you may be able straight pipe it for the time being, until you can get a cat.
Cats don’t really do much in terms of a usable car. They are more so for emissions.
I would probably replace the car if possible.
A lot of miles and cat replacement is definitely not cheap.
Unfortunately, before the run the smog test, they visually inspect the cat and other components to make sure they are compliant. A non-CARB cat would be spotted right away and fail.
Possibly there are counterfeits available that would pass muster. The marketplace can be very resourceful in the face of unreasonable government diktats.
does your car insurance cover the cat on the theft part of the policy?
Be glad you don't have a Prius/ hybrid. California requires OEM if Im not mistaken and they're insanely expensive if you don't have comprehensive insurance.
Had mine stolen off my Prius earlier this year & replaced it with a Walker direct-fit. Been going about 8 months with no problems (except had to change the O2 sensor the other day that this shop installed along with the new CC, so that's odd). So far I haven't had any issues with this Walker brand cat..I believe they do make CARB (California) approved CC's so that's a cheaper brand you may consider
also- if you do decide to replace it you'll definitely want to get some kind of security for it i.e. Cat Strap, shield or have a muffler shop weld some bars to it to make stealing it more difficult.
Catalytic converter theft is a big issue here in WA State particularly in certain cities. What I've heard people do is putting a shield on it after replacement. Not sure how much it helps as I have no personal experience but I've been hearing a lot of people doing it. Also, depending on your insurance deductible and the type of coverage you have they should cover it because it's theft.
