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Catalytic Converter damaged?

Discussion in 'Gen 3 Prius Care, Maintenance & Troubleshooting' started by Ak123, May 7, 2022.

  1. Ak123

    Ak123 New Member

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    [​IMG] Hello everyone,
    I was washing the underside of my car and ive noticed a slight dent in the cat. Is this any cause for concern long term? I've not noticed any performance drop or MPG loss, no idea how this happened...

     
  2. PriusCamper

    PriusCamper Senior Member

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    You'll get a warning light and a P0420 error code if that dent becomes a problem. No need to worry for now. Of course posting a photo of the severity of the dent might change our minds about not needing to worry.
     
  3. Ak123

    Ak123 New Member

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    Not sure if you can see it but here's the picture of the dent.
    <>
     
  4. prius16

    prius16 Active Member

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    The picture is at:

    Code:
    https://i.imgur.com/QArR52F.jpeg
    Imho, it looks like the outer case is still in good shape.
    I say, carefully check for any escaping exhaust from the crease. I like to use facial tissue/Kleenex.

    Then, keep a watch on it (every 3-6 months?) for any rust or hole.
    Also, always stay aware of any new loud exhaust noise.

    NOTE: The cat can get to Hundreds+ degrees. If the cat is touched by hand when it is hot, the cat can cause instant permanent burn scars/damage to human flesh. Ouch!
    So, please be careful near any hot exhaust component.


    Good Luck!
     
    #4 prius16, May 7, 2022
    Last edited: May 7, 2022
    pidginbil likes this.
  5. Georgina Rudkus

    Georgina Rudkus Senior Member

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    That's not the cat. It's just the empty resonator.
     
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  6. PriusCamper

    PriusCamper Senior Member

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    Now that I can see the picture, it's a pretty severe impact to what looks like the resonator. And while the dent in the resonator won't be too much problem other than slightly changing the sound of your exhaust system, a much great concern is it looks like the force of the impact caused damage elsewhere and you need to get it up in the air for an inspection. For example the two metal bars with the nipples at the ends are suppose to hold some big rubber connectors that hold the exhaust system in place. So at the very least you're gonna have to replace those.
     
  7. Ak123

    Ak123 New Member

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    Okay thats great. There is a shield put on over the cat by the previous owner so i was mistaken. I dont think theres any holes formed in the dent. Im going to have it looked into further to make sure nothing else is damaged
    Thanks!
     
    bisco likes this.