06 XC90 catalytic converter/Flex Pipe

Post by **cuhfs** » 06 Jul 2018, 19:52

Anyone replace their XC90 catalytic converters/Flex Pipes lately? What did you use - OEM / Volvo or aftermarket? I just did it using an aftermarket $300 cheap part and am not happy at all with it. So now I'll be buying the Volvo $1500 dealer part

. is that the only option? The part is actually 2 cats/Flexpipe connected and is approximately located below where the front seats are. The cheap part causes too much cabin noise. It was a perfect fit just has more roar than I want. That's $1500 just for the PART - no labor. Car was very quiet till I needed to replace these cat conv.

Post by **Rattnalle** » 07 Jul 2018, 07:01

New exhaust parts are always noisier than old ones since they're clean on the inside. The difference shouldn't be too big though.

Post by **oragex** » 07 Jul 2018, 08:55

Got mine from this seller for my S60 non turbo, ok-ish quality, the bracket was not at the right place, the flexible is too short and vibrates, at least it doesn't leak and I don't get a check engine https://www.ebay.com/itm/PE49395-FRONT- ... 1438.l2649

But I guess you rather need only the flexible and maybe a little repair at the flange after the converter, this flange wears from rust and starts leaking. By all means I'd try to reuse the old catalytic converter section, it should last a long time (unless the engine has combustion issues) and it's a far better quality than anything aftermarket.

The idea is to chop off the old flexible(s) that leak and then weld properly a new qualtiy flexible(s). This brand makes great products, it's from Canada and it's inexpensive - make sure to order the one with interlock inside and the correct size (not the correct part linked)
https://www.amazon.com/Vibrant-61004-Fl ... e+flexible

Make sure to order also the same length as the original, too short and it transmits vibrations/noise

The hardest thing is to weld the flexible correctly at the right position/angle as the genuine part was, a good muffler shop should be able to do it for you

Post by **cuhfs** » 07 Jul 2018, 19:28

I'm going to bite the bullet and buy the part from Volvo. I plan to keep the car for a long time. Original lasted 12 years, I can justify the crazy expense.