Catalytic Converter issues

[S80inTexas]

My mechanic told me that i'm probably going to have to replace my cat.
My question is can I purchase an after market one or should I buy one at the dealer, he always speaks ill of after-market products.
This is my first Volvo, and as you can imagine my indoctrination into European cars was not what I expected.
I would appreciate any advice.

Woody

[JDS60R]

Hi Woody

Welcome to Matthews Volvo site !!!

Keep in mind that a cat never dies "its murdered". What that means is that something causes the cat to fail and if that issue is not resolved before the new one is one it will die also. As far as an aftermarket cat I think you will be more than happy with one from Magnaflow. They are affordable and can be purchased cheaply through any magnaflow retailer such as Amazon or summitracing.com. We use them for the high performance vehicles and are very happy with them. You will have to have an exhaust shop weld it in for you. If its cheaper to buy the whole pipe with a cat in it from a junkyard you may wish to consider that.
You can use this website to find used parts across the U.S. www.car-parts.com.

Take a look at all of our vendors above while considering options and remember if buying from Amazon to use the orange link at the top of the page.

Best Wishes,
John

[S80inTexas]

Thank you.
I have recently replace the Throttle body controller?? (throttle body something) and the aft O2 sensor. Does this jive with the Cat news??

[JDS60R]

The oxygen sensor maybe. The front oxygen sensor refines the level of air fuel mixture. If it is more than 100,000 miles in service, it should be changed with a new one. Most require a Bosch unit and they can be purchased cheaply through the Amazon link above.

Several sensors including the mass air flow sensor are involved in choosing the air fuel ratio. But an oxygen sensor that is beyond its service life is a good place to start.