Does California allow aftermarket catalytic converters?

Does California allow aftermarket catalytic converters?

Effective January 1, 2021 for Colorado and January 1, 2009 for California, new aftermarket catalytic converters sold or installed in Colorado or California must meet the following requirements: Be compatible with OBD catalyst monitors.

What is a California approved catalytic converter?

A CARB-compliant catalytic converter is one that has been approved for sale by the California Air Resources Board (CARB). CARB emission standards for aftermarket catalytic converters are more elaborate than the EPA standards for aftermarket catalytic converters and requires a more extensive warranty than the EPA.

Why can’ti buy a catalytic converter in California?

The answer is, not enough to qualify for sale in the State of California! In order to be legally sold and installed in California, a catalytic converter must undergo extensive testing to prove that it is durable and meets emission control requirements.

What is the difference between an OEM and aftermarket catalytic converter?

OEM Catalytic Converters are designed to last the entire lifetime of your car if handled adequately. Aftermarket Catalytic Converters have no responsibility to survive that long, so they are made using cheaper materials.

Can you pass smog without a catalytic converter?

Answer: No, it is not. My recommended procedure is not tampering with the functioning of the catalytic converter. In most cases, the reason why an old CC fails a smog test is because the smog equipment is calibrated too sensitively.

How much is a aftermarket catalytic converter?

money. An aftermarket catalytic converter can save you over 80% on the price of a new one, costing less than $200, and sometimes as low as $60. However, there are significant downsides in purchasing aftermarket, and you should be aware of them before making your decision.

Why is California catalytic converter so expensive?

It really comes down to commodity pricing of rare, expensive, precious metals. It is fairly expensive to use enough of these metals in your catalytic converter to effectively reduce emissions, and this is the main controller of cost.

Can I change my own catalytic converter in California?

ATTENTION: Under California regulations, it is illegal to install a catalytic converter based solely on physical shape, size, configuration or pipe diameter.

How much is a aftermarket catalytic converter worth?

money. An aftermarket catalytic converter can save you over 80% on the price of a new one, costing less than $200, and sometimes as low as $60.

When did aftermarket catalytic converters become legal in California?

The Air Resources Board, with assistance from aftermarket catalytic converter manufacturers, has been developing a database to store and retrieve information on aftermarket catalytic converters that have been approved for use in California. These catalytic converters comply with the new regulations that became effective January 1, 2009.

How to contact ARB about a catalytic converter?

If you have any questions, please contact ARB’s Public Information Helpline at (800) 242-4450 or via email.

What’s the work of the California Air Resources Board?

There is far more work to be done. CARB stands ready as it enters its next 50 years to build on this strong environmental legacy and ensure that all Californians will breathe clean air. Need assistance or information about programs or regulations?

Are there catalytic converters for OBD 2 cars?

The database is currently under construction and contains some of the catalytic converters approved for OBD II vehicles. Once finalized, it will also include catalytic converters for non-OBD II vehicles. NOTE: Windows Internet Explorer (IE) users, encountering database display issues, should check the Compatibility View, in the IE Address Bar.