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Catalytic converter for 2002

Discussion in 'Gen 2 Prius Technical Discussion' started by JasMayor, Aug 13, 2008.

  1. JasMayor

    JasMayor Junior Member

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    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.
     
  2. Patrick Wong

    Patrick Wong DIY Enthusiast

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    The generic catalytic converter does not work because Classic Prius has a hydrocarbon absorption chamber upstream of the cc, a unique feature.
     
  3. bwilson4web

    bwilson4web BMW i3 and Model 3

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    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
     
  4. mingoglia

    mingoglia Member

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

    Patrick Wong DIY Enthusiast

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    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
     
  6. mingoglia

    mingoglia Member

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    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. :)
     
  7. JasMayor

    JasMayor Junior Member

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    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.
     
  8. DREAM845

    DREAM845 New Member

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    I di
     
  9. rigormortis

    rigormortis Active Member

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    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)
     
  10. JasMayor

    JasMayor Junior Member

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    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.
     
  11. rigormortis

    rigormortis Active Member

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    evn though its used , its still kinda sad you have to spend $1620 when it was just 8,000 miles out of emissions warranty. id at least ask toyota for some of the money. they have been known to split the cost with people over the emissions and the battery.

    i hear stories on the news, apparanty there is this new trend where theives will sneak up to your car and steal your catalytic converter outright to sell to recyclers, because the value of the rhodium. rhodium is 6,000 an ounce. you can sell your old one for between $20 and $200

    your in vermont, sigh


    rats

    if it was a pzev your catalyitic would of been good for 15 years 150,000 miles, darn

    man if it was just 1 model year younger, you would of been covered living in a carb state


    its probably 28,000 miles out of the emissions warranty
     
  12. JasMayor

    JasMayor Junior Member

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    Ah, but Vermont has many other advantages that, I think, outweigh everything else.

    BTW, I am going to go with a third party (read that "cheap") catalytic converter when it becomes necessary.
     
  13. spitinuri

    spitinuri Member

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    Try XVipers! He has about 50 of the old Gen II 99-03 Prius and all the parts. You might be able to get a catalytic converter.

    1-866-XVIPERS

    The owner has any part you can think of for a Prius.
     
  14. DREAM845

    DREAM845 New Member

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    need catalytic convertor try CAT BROTHERS.com good price oem rebuilt
     
  15. JasMayor

    JasMayor Junior Member

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    What am I missing? I tried all variations of that and onlt got animal and Caterpillar sites. Sorry.