[Junvar914]

My CEL light is on and the dealer said it is because the cat converter need to be replaced. The Cat converter currently installed is an after market brand installed by the previous owner. Since I need to pass emission testing here in WA. Do I have to install an OEM from the dealer, or can I use an after market brand and have the code reset? if an after market brand will work, any idea which one should I use? Please help!!!

 

[stu_class]

any garage with the know-how should be able to reset the computer.

as for choosing between OEM or aftermarket, I've no idea. How long should a CAT last?

My VW lasted about 10 years with the same CAT. Whereas the backbox was about 7 years old. But is the 'Shoddy' label of Merc now intimating that its not going to last that long, and therefore just as good to have aftermarket?!??

 

[wblynch]

We have an emissions warranty here that supersedes the workmanship warranty. I would have to check but I believe it's currently 8 years or 80,000 miles. So a failure of the catalytic converter in the US would have to be replaced for free by the manufacturer within that period.

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http://www.epa.gov/obd/warranties.htm

What Are Specified Major Emission Control Components?

There are three specified major emission control components, covered for the first 8 years or 80,000 miles of vehicle use on 1995 and newer vehicles:

* Catalytic converters.
* The electronic emissions control unit or computer (ECU).
* The onboard emissions diagnostic device or computer (OBD).

 

[MelloC230]

Only 4 years on the cat and it's gone bad definately get it replaced with another brand. I have heard of cats going over 100K without having to be replaced so there may be another issue with the vehicle or the cat was punch'd out (ol school race day tricks for free flow cat). If the vehicle is running rich it can degrade the catalytic converter quicky if it's not a quality brand. Try to find out the manufacturer and see if they will honor the emissions warranty.