Are you familiar with catalytic converters, a vital part of your car? This acts on exhaust gases to reduce polluting emissions.
The reason you heard very little about this is its price. But once your existing one is beyond repair, you have to get the possible best aftermarket catalytic converter. Basically, it breaks down the toxic gases which come out of a vehicle. This reduces the carbon footprint on the earth and helps to better the environment.
You are here so that you need to replace your existing one. But do you know what are the best catalytic converters in a wide range of items?
No worry if you are still searching. We are here to help you with best-selling and top-rated items with detailed reviews.
Let’s check out our selection along with the guide we prepared.
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Last update on 2023-03-22 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
How Does a Catalytic Converter Work?
This converter is located in the exhaust line. Combustion in the engine releases gas molecules such as carbon monoxide (CO), unburnt hydrocarbons (HC), or nitrogen oxides (NOx). The converter traps these toxic gases.
After that, it exposes them to a specific temperature and pressure conditions with other materials to cause a chemical reaction.
This reaction breaks the toxic gases, which recompose into harmless gases.
What Is Aftermarket Catalytic Converter?
A catalytic converter is a device designed to reduce gas emissions equipped with heat combustion vehicles. But due to the high price, not everyone can afford them. At his point, there are some used, but refurbished kits are available in the market.
These refurbished kits come to us as a new one, and those are fit for most of the cars (Universal). These are called aftermarket catalytic converter. It has been started being used in 1975.
3 Best Selling Aftermarket Catalytic Converter Comparison Table
Last update on 2023-03-22 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
7 Best Aftermarket Catalytic Converter
We have gone through deep research to narrow down our list with best-selling items. We have research with 40+ top-rated items and then list the following items as overall best items.
Let’s have the details review:
1. Eastern 70318 Catalytic Converter
Our first choice is from Eastern Industries. Eastern 70318 is one of the top-rated Aftermarket Catalytic Converter. Its stainless steel body ensures durability and strength. It is also made in a 2-way user system, i.e., you can use it with both sides as inlets and outlets.
The Nanotechnology used in the converter ensures a huge reduction of toxic gases.
Its well-constructed body and advanced technology let it fit with a wide range of vehicles. If only it was allowed in all the states (California), we could declare it the best one, hands down.
Benefits
- Easy installation;
- Perfect fit;
- Higher rate of toxic reduction;
- Stainless-steel body.
Drawbacks
- Not street- legal in California;
- Cannot install without a pipe in the exhaust system.
2. AUTOSAVER88 ATCC0017 Universal Catalytic Converter
Now, we have another catalytic converter that can easily be identified as the ideal converter for cars. Its quality, performance, and brand-value are enough to prove that statement.
Like the previous one, it also has a stainless-steel body, ensuring a long-lasting life.
Another great thing is the ceramic coating that nothing but maximizes efficiency.
Unlike the Eastern converter, this one comes with 2.25-inch pipes, making it is compatible with almost all OBD2 vehicles. However, this converter is compatible with only the OBD2.
The price may seem a little too expensive. But if you get past that, this can be your ideal choice.
Benefits
- Super durability (50,000 miles warranty);
- Premium quality material;
- Comes with heat shield and O2 port;
- Robust and strong.
Drawbacks
- Only compatible with OBD2;
- Very expensive.
3. AUTOSAVER88 Catalytic Converter
We have another premium quality aftermarket catalytic converter manufactured by TWG.
Its direct-fit feature makes it fit any kind of OBD2 vehicle. It can reduce the toxic gas without compromising the flow. On the one hand, the stainless-steel outer part provides durability, and the ceramic inner part ensures efficiency.
The only downside is the high cost, which is justified by the supreme qualities and the facilities.
Benefits
- High flow catalytic converter;
- Strong and sturdy;
- Long-lasting;
- Easy to install;
- EPA approved.
Drawbacks
- Compatible with only OBD2 vehicles.
4. AUTOSAVER88 ATCC0007 Catalytic Converter
This best catalytic converter from AUTOSAVER88 is just the right choice for anyone who owns a Nissan Altima or Audi a2. Like other converter of this manufacturer, it also has a robust stainless steel outer body and ceramic inner body. As a result, this catalytic converter is strong and efficient.
It is very easy to set-up as it comes with all the necessary parts and has a direct-fit system. It helps to improve the performance of the vehicle by reducing the emission of toxic gases.
This model is only compatible with OBD2 vehicles, and a little costly brings it at this point of the list. Otherwise, it has all the qualities to become a top product in this category.
Benefits
- Maximum efficiency;
- Durable and robust;
- Premium quality;
- Direct-fit technology.
Drawbacks
- Not legal in California.
5. EvanFischer REPG960301 Catalytic Converter
If you have a low budget, this is a perfect item. This aftermarket catalytic converter is excellent in performance, yet it is budget-friendly.
Thanks to its direct fitting capacity, it is easy to install anyone who can instantly do it. Also, the pre-designed structure requires nothing more than itself in this process.
This particular model of the catalytic converter has aluminized steel as its material. Moreover, it is powder-coated to make it more efficient.
Benefits
- Easy to install with provided equipment;
- Quality-price ratio;
- O2 sensors;
- Compatible with a wide range of vehicles;
- Steel body.
Drawbacks
- Little less durable than its counterparts.
6. Magnaflow Catalytic Converter – 60111
The reason this catalytic converter made it to our list is the multi-dimensional compatibility. MagnaFlow HM converter is suitable for a wide range of vehicles.
This converter is engineered in such a way that, along with reducing the gas emission, it ensures an even flow. This 2-way catalytic converter is made with stainless steel that makes it durable, and prevents the exhaust’s smell.
However, it doesn’t comply with the law of California or Colorado.
Benefits
- Wide range of compatible cars;
- EPA approved;
- Long-lasting performance.
Drawbacks
- Requires professional personnel to install it properly.
7. MagnaFlow HM Grade Universal Catalytic Converter 99206HM
We end our list with another converter from MagnaFlow, which brings one of the top-rated aftermarket catalytic converters. Like the one we mentioned above, this product has all the qualities to be on our list.
Another great feature of this catalytic converter is that it is designed to reduce fuel usage. Other than this, it comes with 4 O2 sensors, a steel outer body, and ceramic inner parts. All these qualities make it desirable to car owners.
On the other hand, the price is also affordable. So, if you want a quality converter within your budget, go for it.
Benefits
- Higher lifespan;
- Efficient;
- Affordable;
- Even flow;
- Universal.
Drawbacks
- Not easy to install.
- Perfect Aftermarket Catalytic Converter Buying Guide
What To Check to Buy the Right Aftermarket Catalytic Converter?
You know how tough to find the right aftermarket catalytic converter. But that doesn’t mean it is impossible at all. With some precaution and general knowledge, you may find a good one.
So, here are some facts to check before buying the best aftermarket catalytic converter:
Last update on 2023-03-23 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
1. Consider Which Types of The Catalytic Converter You Want to Buy
a. Two-Way Catalytic:
Also called an “open-loop” catalytic.
It only exists in American-made vehicles. Also called “double effect” or “double body,” they are actually a double catalytic with an intermediate air intake. The first body acts on the rich exhaust gases, reducing nitrogen oxide (NO).
The second does so on the impoverished gases thanks to the intermediate air intake, reducing carbon monoxide (CO) and hydrocarbons (HC). It requires a stoichiometric mixture to work.
b. Three-Way Catalytic:
They are also called “closed-loop.”
They are the most complex, sophisticated and expensive (currently being the most used). And the technological evolution has displaced the so-called double-body catalytic. In those, the oxidation of polluting gases was incomplete.
catalytic of this type are called “three-way” because they simultaneously reduce the three most critical harmful elements:
-carbon monoxide (CO),
– hydrocarbons (HC), and
– nitrogen oxide (NO).
Its greater efficiency depends on the mixture of the intake gases.
To work perfectly, the air-gasoline mixture must have the appropriate composition: (one kilo of gasoline for 14.7 Kg of air).
2. Check Fitting Perfectly
Not all catalytic converter has the same fitting capacity. Some are direct fit, and others are universal fit.
The direct-fit converts are the model-specific ones. They are already modified and altered to fit your car, so you don’t need a professional hand to install them.
On the contrary, the universal fit converters are made for almost all models. So, to make it your own, you will need modifications, alterations, and equipment. Also, these are not very easy to install.
3. Consider the Price
It is true that money matters—the more expensive the catalytic converter, the better the quality.
But you can’t afford the costly one, choose wisely. Several models are both economic and efficient. For example, Walker catalytic converter/
What Does a Catalytic Converter Do?
The catalytic converter is placed between the exhaust manifold and the first silencer of the exhaust line. And it is made up of a structure inside of ceramic material with a honeycomb shape.
The interior composition includes active substances such as aluminum oxide; noble metals such as platinum, rhodium, palladium, retarders. It also has promoters that regulate the catalytic action when it comes into contact with the exhaust gases.
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Last update on 2023-03-22 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Where It Transform the Gas?
The converter is responsible for transforming the exhaust gases in two phases:
- Oxidizes carbon monoxide (CO) and unburned hydrocarbons and converts them to carbon dioxide and water.
- Produces the reduction of nitrogen oxides, converting them into nitrogen.
These two conversions are possible thanks to the temperatures with which the exhaust gases reach the catalytic.
This transformation is considered partial. Even after this reduction occurs, CO2 is still a gas that is harmful to the environment. And it is one of the causes of the greenhouse effect.
To guarantee the useful life of the catalytic converter, we must consider the maintenance of the vehicle. You should the time and the kilometers recommended by the manufacturer in mind.
Replace the spark plugs, the air filter, and the gasoline filter if it is incorporated. Also, opt for the manufacturer’s engine oil and keep the level at the correct levels. An excess of oil can cause particles to enter the catalytic converter and deteriorate it.
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FAQ
1. Can I Install My Catalytic Converter?
Ans: Depends on the type of the product. Direct-fit converters are easy to install, but universal-fit converters need professionals to install them correctly.
2. What Will Happen If My Catalytic Converter Fails?
Ans: A failure of the converter can cause a loss of power. Even the car can stop due to its obstruction and the non-evacuation of exhaust gases. It will need to be replaced by a new one with the economic cost involved.
3. Which Catalytic Converter Should I Use for My Vehicle?
Ans: In our opinion, the EvanFischer REPG960301 Catalytic Converter is a good choice. It is durable, functional, yet affordable.
4. What Are the Common Signs Of A Failed Catalytic Converter?
Ans: If we hear metallic noises from the exhaust pipe, it may be that the converter is not good. Therefore, the converter will not fulfill its functions and will not filter the gases properly.
Conclusion
The car is undoubtedly one of the most important factors when it comes to the carbon footprint. With little effort and the best aftermarket catalytic converter, you can easily reduce this. And we know, this is not an easy task, since there are hundreds of products. So, suppose you don’t want to regret buying a product good for nothing.
In that case, we suggest you go through our catalytic converter review. Hopefully, you will have everything you need to know.
Last update on 2023-03-22 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
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