How to Install a Catalytic Converter

If your car has failed a vehicle emissions test, the most likely reason is a faulty Catalytic Converter that will need to be replaced. If you take the car in to a professional repair shop for the replacement of the catalytic converter, the repair bill could be several hundred dollars. So, do the job yourself and save about half the money. Here is a handy step by step guide to show you how to replace the catalytic converter in your car.

What You Will Need

• Car jack
• Jack stands
• Penetrating Lubricant such as WD-40
• Socket wrench or ratchet set
• Breaker bar
• Screwdrivers
• Hammer
• Spare 2-inch bolts
• Spare lock washers
• New catalytic converter made for your vehicle

Step 1 - Jack Up the Vehicle

Use your car jack to jack up the vehicle to a height where you can place the jack stands under your vehicle. Lower the car jack a little to allow the car to rest securely on the jack stands.

Step 2 - Loosen the Bolts on the Catalytic Converter

Use penetrating lubricant such as WD-40 or another type of lubricant to spray on the bolts that attach the catalytic converter and heat shield to your vehicle. Allow the lubricant is set for about 5 or 10 minutes so that it will help loosen the bolts.

Step 3 - Remove the Heat Shield

Many catalytic converters on vehicles have a heat shield. If your car does have a heat shield, you will need to remove it by loosening the bolts or screws that keep it attached to the catalytic converter.

Step 4 - Remove the Old Catalytic Converter

Next, remove the bolts that hold the catalytic converter in place. The bolts will probably be very hard to turn and may even be rusted somewhat. So, make sure to use your breaker bar to help release the torque on the bolts so that they can be removed.

Step 5 - Install the new Catalytic Converter

After you've removed the old catalytic converter, carefully aligned the new catalytic converter and secure it with the bolts. If you have trouble aligning the catalytic converter, you may need someone to hold it in place while you tighten the bolts.

Step 6 - Replace the Heat Shield

If the heat shield for your catalytic convertible is still usable, reattach it using the screws or bolts that you removed earlier. In some cases, the heat shield may be worn out our may have been damaged during removal. If this is the case, you'll need to head back to the auto parts store and purchase a new heat shield.

Step 7 - Check for Exhaust Leaks

Finally, start your car engine and check for any exhaust leaks that may be present in the catalytic converter area. If you do observe any exhaust leaks, it is probably a result of a bolt that was not completely tightened. If there is an exhaust leak, remove the heat shield and apply more torque to the bolts that hold the catalytic converter in place.