Catalytic converter for 2002

[JasMayor]

With 108K we got a "check engine" light. The code indicated the catalytic converter. A Toyota dealer said the part was $1660. Our regular garage said it was $1600. Online (Whitney, et al) we find them from $55 to $300+. What is the catch? Do the "generic" (that say they are for 2002 Prii) work? Incidentally we live in VT, not CA.

[Patrick Wong]

The generic catalytic converter does not work because Classic Prius has a hydrocarbon absorption chamber upstream of the cc, a unique feature.

[bwilson4web]

I might try the generic since the upstream HC is active only until the system 'warms up.' Then a by-pass valve opens up. ... Just a thought.

Bob Wilson

[mingoglia]

Originally Posted by bwilson4web

I might try the generic since the upstream HC is active only until the system 'warms up.' Then a by-pass valve opens up. ... Just a thought.

Bob Wilson

I think for the $$$, this would be the route I'd personally try.

[Patrick Wong]

If the OP wants to try a generic catalytic converter, then it will be necessary to separate the old catalytic converter from the HCAC, then weld the HCAC to the new catalytic converter. This assumes that the problem with the old assembly is the catalytic converter, not the HCAC.

Although the OP is located on the East, see the following link for an explanation of how an independent shop in the SF Bay Area installed a generic cc.
Installing An Aftermarket OBD2 / CARB Approved Converter In a First Generation Prius

[mingoglia]

Originally Posted by Patrick Wong

If the OP wants to try a generic catalytic converter, then it will be necessary to separate the old catalytic converter from the HCAC, then weld the HCAC to the new catalytic converter. This assumes that the problem with the old assembly is the catalytic converter, not the HCAC.

Although the OP is located on the East, see the following link for an explanation of how an independent shop in the SF Bay Area installed a generic cc.
Installing An Aftermarket OBD2 / CARB Approved Converter In a First Generation Prius

That's a good write-up. I enjoy seeing write-ups by shops that do what they can to save the customer money by doing *quality* work. Time went into this and it doesn't appear to be a hack job.

To be honest, it's a job I might find fun to do myself. Sometimes having a new vehicle takes the fun out of improvising fixes such as this.

[JasMayor]

Thanks one and all. I already have the Art's Automotive "article." Since I won't be doing the work myself, I will talk this over with "my" mechanic.

[DREAM845]

I di

Originally Posted by jasmayor

with 108k we got a "check engine" light. The code indicated the catalytic converter. A toyota dealer said the part was $1660. Our regular garage said it was $1600. Online (whitney, et al) we find them from $55 to $300+. What is the catch? Do the "generic" (that say they are for 2002 prii) work? Incidentally we live in vt, not ca.

[rigormortis]

if i read this thread right...???

with 6 years and 8,000 miles over 100,000
is there any hope toyota will still give you a new catalytic convertor or share the cost of one?

dumb question section
---------------------
if u keep the old catalytic converter after its replaced, how much is it worth as scrap?
(instead of letting the dealer keep that money)

[JasMayor]

Originally Posted by rigormortis

if i read this thread right...???

with 6 years and 8,000 miles over 100,000
is there any hope toyota will still give you a new catalytic convertor or share the cost of one?

dumb question section
---------------------
if u keep the old catalytic converter after its replaced, how much is it worth as scrap? (instead of letting the dealer keep that money)

Personally, I don't believe it is fair of me to ask Toyota to pay for any of the catalytic converter. I purchased it used and it is out of warrantee. As for recycling? I'll check with some people. I suspect the garage won't bother, unless they know who will pay for it.