If your catalytic converter is bad, you may be tempted to try replacing it yourself or even ignore it all together. These are both bad ideas, and you may be surprised how much money, time and energy you can save by having a catalytic converter and also letting someone else do all the hard work.
Driving without a catalytic converter is illegal. If you are caught without one, you can be fined for up to $2500. Also, in California, a smog check is required for your vehicle every two years. This law makes sure that every vehicle is running within the standards for emission. You will not be able to pass smog and renew your car’s registration without a functioning catalytic converter. How then should you go about replacing yours?
When you decided to replace your bad catalytic converter, you should take it into a mechanic to get it done. While it is possible to install the part yourself, it’s not advisable unless you are a well-seasoned mechanic. Since all four corners of your car need to be raised, replacing your own catalytic converter requires four car jacks or a professional-quality hydraulic lift.
If you locate the one that needs replacing, and you discover it has been welded on, you will need a reciprocating saw, a welding machine and thorough knowledge on how to use both of them safely in order to get it off. You will need to saw the converter off, and then hammer it out. However, it’s possible to harm your exhaust system, leading to potentially harmful leaks in the future. Putting a catalytic converter into a spot where the previous one was welded on is a job that should be done only by a competent welder. If you don’t know what you are doing, you could end up hurting your vehicle or even yourself. Even those that are bolted on can easily have rusted or partially corroded bolts, making it nigh impossible to get them off without help.
Professionals also have access to equipment that the average person doesn’t. Their equipment makes the job a lot quicker and easier. A catalytic converter replacement job rarely takes more than 3 hours. Of course, you may have to wait longer, depending on the line in front of you. Regardless, taking your car in instead of trying to fix the problem yourself will save you a load of unnecessary hassle and headache. If you are interested in catalytic converters replacement in San Diego, look no further than here http://www.dualtoneauto.com/catalytic-converters
