Full Answer
Is it illegal to drive without a catalytic converter?
Jun 28, 2020 · Is it legal to install a used catalytic converter? It's not illegal per se, but there are requirements for what kind of used converters you can use. EPA considers it a violation of the policy to install a used converter from a salvage yard or sell it for reuse unless it has been properly tested and labeled.
What is EPA’s policy on installing used catalytic converters?
Jan 12, 2020 · Also to know is, is it legal to install a used catalytic converter? It's not illegal per se, but there are requirements for what kind of used converters you can use. EPA considers it a violation of the policy to install a used converter from a salvage yard or sell it for reuse unless it has been properly tested and labeled.
Are used catalytic converters available for sale in California?
Nov 27, 2017 · EPA considers it a violation of the policy to install a used converter from a salvage yard or sell it for reuse unless it has been properly tested and labeled. Similarly, it is a violation to install an untested used converter brought in by a customer, even if the customer insists that the used converter came off his/her vehicle. Salvage or junk yards also would be considered liable …
Do aftermarket catalytic converters need to be CARB compliant?
Dec 17, 2018 · In short: DON'T. If your car came with a catalytic converter you're looking at fines of up to $10,000 for removing it. Sort of. Removing the catalytic converter is illegal, but getting caught without one isn't. Most states will simply suspend your smog certification until you get a new one installed.
Can you put a catalytic converter at home?
Make sure that the catalytic converter is firmly in place, and you're set to go. ... It's only rusted bolts or a welded component that make it harder and increase the catalytic converter replacement time. It's easily a job that a DIY mechanic can handle.
Can I install a used catalytic converter in California?
The requirements also sunset provisions allowing the sale of certified used catalytic converters beginning July 10, 2008. This means that no used converter can be legally advertised for sale, sold, or installed in California after this date.
Can you buy a catalytic converter from a junkyard?
Any junkyard that has old cars and different vehicle parts might have a catalytic converter or two for you to have. It's important that you ask the owners of the junkyard what's acceptable, but there's a good chance that you'll be able to find a catalytic converter somewhere on the property.
Which cars are most likely to have catalytic converter stolen?
Which cars are most likely to have their catalytic converter stolen?Hybrid vehicles. ... Older vehicles. ... SUVs and trucks. ... Other models with valuable catalytic converters. ... Year. ... Diesel vehicles. ... Electric vehicles. ... Least at-risk makes.More items...•25 Feb 2022
How does a catalytic converter work?
Catalytic converters, or cats, work like super-high-temperature ovens, storing exhaust heat and using it to convert many of these dangerous compounds to less dangerous forms. Read More: California Engine Swap Smog Laws.
Can you get fined for not having a converter?
You'll never get fined if you never get caught, which is entirely possible in many places; some states like South Dakota and Florida don't have any emissions testing. Converter removal is fairly common in states like these, but there's one caveat; don't walk up to any old shop and ask them to remove the converter. Most will either tell you that they don't do exhaust work for undercover EPA agents, or that you have to register your vehicle as "off-road only" before they'll touch it.
Can you install a used converter from another vehicle?
Used Converters. You can install a used converter from another vehicle of the same make and model under two conditions. The donor vehicle must have the exact same engine and transmission package as yours, and you must have the converter tested to certify that it still works.
Can you get caught without a catalytic converter?
Sort of. Removing the catalytic converter is illegal, but getting caught without one isn't. Most states will simply suspend your smog certification until you get a new one installed.
Information About New Regulations for Aftermarket Catalytic Converters
CARB adopted revised regulations and evaluation procedures in October 2007 for the approval of new aftermarket catalytic converters sold in California. The requirements apply to all new aftermarket converters produced for sale or sold in California after January 1, 2009.
Formal Regulatory Documents for October 25, 2007, Hearing
The documents pertaining to the Board's adoption of new requirements for replacement catalytic converters include, but are not limited to, the public hearing notice, staff report, and regulations.
2004-2009 Prius Gen 2 Catalytic Converter Options (California, Stolen Cat?)
Hopefully you are reading this before your catalytic converter was stolen on your Gen 2 (2004-2009) Toyota Prius. If yours was stolen there are some options you have depending on what state you are in.
How to Protect Your Catalytic Converter from being Stolen
There are a couple of very ingenious ways of protecting the cat on your 2004-2009 Prius. The first one is by installing a “shield” by numerous manufacturers which bolts on the underside of your Prius and discourages thieves from stealing.
Best Aftermarket Catalytic Converters
If you are not in CA, NY, or ME. These are some of the better options for aftermarket converters if your original equipment (OEM) catalytic converter was unfortunately stolen.
FAQ
It is illegal to sell used catalytic converters in California. If you cannot find an aftermarket CARB compliant catalytic converter for the Prius, you are not allowed by law to buy a used one. Many aftermarket sellers of catalytic converters on eBay or Amazon will not ship their catalytic to California addresses as well.
Step 2 – Locate The Vehicle’S Emissions Control Information Label.
- To determine which catalytic converter to use on a vehicle, it is necessary to determine the specific emissions system installed by the OE manufacturer. This information is provided on the vehicle's Emissions Control Information Label located in the engine compartment in a visible location – usually on the hood underside, strut tower, radiator support, fan shroud or firewall.
Step 3 – Determine The Emissions Certification.
- A vehicle is a California Emissions Certified model if the Vehicle Emissions Control Information (VECI)label references: California, 50-State, CARB or ARB. This is vital information if regulations in your state mandate replacement converters be CARB compliant.
Step 4 – Locate The Engine Family number.
- The EFN, also referred to as the Engine Family Number, Emission Family Number or Test Group Number, is prominently located on the Vehicle Emission Control Information label, along with other important emissions specifications. This information is vital when looking up parts in the application catalog, to ensure proper fit and when navigating state-mandated aftermarket replac…