How to Install a Catalytic Converter
A catalytic converter turns a car’s poisonous, chemical emission into a less harmful mix of elements. When a catalytic converter stops working properly a car will not pass smog, and may have problems such as decreased gas mileage or a lag in increased speed when pushing the gas pedal. Having a catalytic converter replaced by a mechanic can be costly; installing a
new catalytic converter at home may be a better option.
What You’ll Need
- Wrench set
- Socket set
- Car jack
- Jack stands
- New catalytic converter
- Replacement gaskets for catalytic converter
- Make sure your vehicle is cool and hasn’t been driven recently.
- Use a car jack to raise your car, then place jack stands under the car to hold it securely in the raised position. Never rely solely on a car jack to keep the car elevated while you work on it.
- Remove the oxygen sensor from the catalytic converter using a wrench. The oxygen sensor is on the passenger side of the catalytic converter.
- Loosen the front and rear bolts from the catalytic converter with a ratchet and socket. You may need to try several sockets to determine which one fits the bolts.
- Remove the loose nuts and bolts that are holding your catalytic converter in place.
- Slide the old catalytic converter out of place and take it completely off. Take the heat shield off of the old part by removing the bolts.
- Put the heat shield on your new catalytic converter and tighten the bolts until they are secure.
- Install the new gaskets on the front and rear of your new catalytic converter by pushing them in place.
- Mount the new catalytic converter by sliding it into place, assuring that the gaskets line up in their proper location.
- Start the front and rear bolts on the catalytic converter to secure it in place. Once they are tightened by hand, use a ratchet and socket to tighten them all firmly.
- Re-install the oxygen sensor on the new catalytic converter. Make sure the torque is to manufacturer’s specifications.
- Come out from under your vehicle and take the jack stands out, then lower and remove the jack.