FJ Cruisers of Northern California

Need to replace catalytic converters

I'm looking for an affordable, dependable service shop to replace my catalytic converter. I'm in American Canyon, but don't mind going to Fairfield, Napa, or Vallejo. I will consider going as far as Sonoma, Concord or Walnut Creek. Pls let me know. Thanks in advance.

▶ Reply to This

Replies to This Discussion

Permalink Reply by Steve Hope on March 25, 2015 at 7:37pm

Did yours get stolen?

Steve.

▶ Reply

Permalink Reply by PhoS on March 25, 2015 at 8:56pm

lol The FJs cats are integrated into the exhaust manifolds so they're not really feasible to try and steal like on a Taco where its just dangling in the middle of the truck. It appears to be fairly common to need to replace the cats at 120k-ish, its not cheap either. If you get lucky they'll fail before your warranty is out.

▶ Reply

Permalink Reply by Steve Hope on March 26, 2015 at 7:56pm

I don't see how difficult it would be with a cutting wheel to whack the front and rear pipe and remove those

cats. the engine frame mounts are in the middle but not in the way. Plus we have good ground clearance!!

Steve.

▶ Reply

Permalink Reply by Ferd R on March 25, 2015 at 8:59pm

@Steve Hope-No it wasn't stolen, unfortunately. I wished it would have as they are expensive.

@PhoS-Mine expired at 80k and Toyota wouldn't even budge to extend a customer courtesy.

▶ Reply

Permalink Reply by Steve Hope on March 26, 2015 at 7:45pm

Be careful with your replacement Cats. The cheap ones will last a couple of years before they blow out.

OBDII allowed Ca residents to buy from aftermarket suppliers instead of dealers. However if you cheap-out your cat may/may not pass Ca smog and may not last. Make sure you get the Correct one for your vehicle, by id #.

If you get one that looks right but the numbers are wrong the smog shop can send you back to your mechanic/supplier.

Be careful. And remember thieves like Toyotas because they are easy to steal. Have thatmuffler shop weld some rebar around it for security, anything to slow thieves down!!

Steve.