Stolen catalytic converter in California

Discussion in 'Gen 2 Prius Care, Maintenance and Troubleshooting' started by Greggie1999, Dec 8, 2020.

  1. Greggie1999

    Greggie1999 New Member

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    My dependable 2007 Prius with 220K miles on it (3rd set of batteries) just had its catalytic converter cut out of it.

    I live in California which is a CARB state. A couple mechanics are telling me the only way to get it replaced and pass a smog test is to get a new part from Toyota, quoting me $2300 + installation. Of course, I'll have to also add a cage to it so prevent a new theft.

    Has anyone figured out any other replacement approaches? Does a used cat from a junk yard work? Are there any aftermarket parts that are more inexpensive than a Toyota part, but still comply with California rules?

    While its been a great car, I fear a $3000 repair job is more than the car is worth!
     
    #1 Greggie1999, Dec 8, 2020
  2. rjparker

    rjparker Tu Humilde Sirviente

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    A used cat would work. If its not on the car when you get it, someone has probably ripped it off it for you. Still would be expensive. Cabling and other hoses may be damaged as well. It is not just Cali because the precious metals are valuable. Many other states don't check emissions so cat deletes or aftermarket cats work there. Even then the car is liable to throw a code without a functional cat. I have heard some aftermarket cats may not throw codes.
     
    #2 rjparker, Dec 9, 2020
  3. golfmk681

    golfmk681 Active Member

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    What did you end up doing?

    My car light goes on and off for the cat error. So my cat is near the end of its life.
     
    #3 golfmk681, Dec 12, 2020
  4. Kerimihu

    Kerimihu New Member

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    My cat got stolen last night is there a universal cat that I can use?
     
    #4 Kerimihu, Apr 30, 2021
  5. bisco

    bisco cookie crumbler

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    not in the 93635 :(
     
    #5 bisco, Apr 30, 2021
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