Catalytic Converter Replacement
The catalytic converter changes harmful exhaust gases into less harmful ones using a ceramic core coated in precious metals. When the core melts, breaks up or clogs, the car loses power, smells and fails emissions checks. We confirm the converter is the problem, find what damaged it and then fit a replacement.
From AED 1,199Written quote after diagnosis, before work startsConvenience fee applicable · shown on your written quote
- 2-4 hours once the part is available
- Pickup and delivery from your door
- Convenience fee applicable · shown on your written quote
- Diagnosis free with repair
Signs you need catalytic converter replacement
- A check engine light with a catalyst efficiency code such as P0420 or P0430
- A smell like rotten eggs from the exhaust
- Loss of power, especially at higher speeds or going uphill
- A rattle from under the car that sounds like loose gravel in a tin
- The engine struggling to rev or stalling because the exhaust is blocked
- Failing an emissions test with no other obvious fault
What usually causes it
Misfires and unburnt fuel
When a cylinder misfires, raw fuel reaches the converter and burns inside it. The temperature can melt the ceramic core. This is why a flashing engine light should be dealt with the same day.
Oil or coolant reaching the exhaust
Burning oil or a coolant leak past a head gasket coats the core, and deposits stop the precious metal from working. Replacing a converter without curing the leak means the new one will fail as well.
Physical damage to the core
The ceramic core is brittle. A heavy knock on the underside, or a sudden temperature shock, can crack it, and the pieces then rattle inside or block the flow.
Failed oxygen sensors giving a false reading
The efficiency code compares the sensor before and after the converter. A tired sensor can set the code even when the converter is healthy, so we test the sensors before condemning the converter.
How we do catalytic converter replacement
- 1
Confirm with live data
We read the codes, then watch the front and rear oxygen sensor signals. A healthy converter gives a steady rear signal while the front switches rapidly. If the two look alike, the converter is not working.
- 2
Check for back-pressure
A blocked converter chokes the engine. We measure exhaust pressure ahead of the converter, or check the temperature difference across it, to judge whether it is restricted.
- 3
Fix the cause first
If the converter failed because of a misfire, a rich mixture or an oil leak, we quote that repair together with the converter. Fitting a new one without it would shorten the life of the part.
- 4
Fit and verify
A replacement converter suited to the engine and the emission specification is fitted with new gaskets and any worn sensors. We clear the codes, drive until the monitors complete and check the readings.
In Dubai, Sharjah and Ajman
Cars that crawl in heavy traffic with the AC on spend long hours at the temperatures where a damaged converter blocks. The converter is also checked in the vehicle test, so a failing one tends to surface at registration time. We do not advise removing or bypassing it; the emission equipment stays on the car.
Questions about catalytic converter replacement
Can I just clean the converter instead?
A mildly contaminated converter can sometimes recover once the cause is fixed and the car is driven hard. If the core is melted or broken, cleaning does nothing, and we say so when we have the readings.
Why is replacement so expensive?
The core contains platinum-group metals, which are costly. The quote lists the options available for your car, including OEM and aftermarket converters, and the price of each so you can compare.
Will the new converter set the same code again?
Not if the cause has been fixed. A converter that failed from misfire or oil will fail again unless that is repaired, which is why we look for the cause as part of the job.
Can I fit a converter that is not made for my car?
No, and we would not fit it. The converter must match the engine size and the emission specification of the car, or the sensors will give wrong readings and the light will return.
Last updated
Get a written quote
Tell us about your car. You get an itemised quote before any work starts, and you choose OEM, aftermarket or used parts.