Catalytic Converter

[anladoc]

Good morning.

The check engine light came on recently in my 2001 V70 2.4T and the code corresponds to my catalytic converter "operating below acceptable levels." The shop is going to run an exhaust gas test ($89) to determine if it is the converter or an error in the computer. If is is the converter, the fix is going to run about $1,500.

Question 1: Does this seem reasonable? I've checked online prices for the part, and the entire OEM assemply costs about $500.

Question 2: Besides failing the VA emissions inspection, is there any harm - even long-term - in not having it replaced right away?

I need to have the timing belt replaced soon, so this is going to be painful.

Thank you for your help.

[fgreynolds]

I had the same problem with my 2001 S60 at 170K miles. The independent mechanic who takes care of all my old clunkers suggested replacing the cat with an after-market part. It bolted right on and looked like the original, but the "check engine" light lit up after 4-5 starts. I posted my problem, to include the check engine code I was geting, in a couple of Volvo forums, and several responses told to never mind the cat, just replace the 02 sensors. I replaced both sensors with OEM Denso sensors (not cheap!). And, the check engine light still comes on with the same message. Only one response to my problem seemed to make sense: someone suggested that the aftermarket cats did not contain enough of the precious metal to meet the Volvo computer's standards. My advice is to bite the bullet and get the Volvo part. The local Volvo shop recently gave me a list price of a little over $1,200 for the cat -- and, after I whined a little, agreed to discount it to something over $900.00.

Frank

[commlend]

Hello,
Catalyst below threshold?

You could have a vacuum leak causing the cat to not reach threshold. Check all your rubber elbows...

Can you hear the cat "ticking" when you shut the car off? If yes it may be fine.
If you tap on the cat with a broomstick, can you hear a rattle? If yes, then it may need replacement.

[meine39]

I'm pretty sure catalytic converters are warranted by the manufacturer to 8years/80K miles by EPA mandate, so first confirm you are out of warranty.