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How to tell if Gen 1 Prius has original or proper catalytic converter?

Discussion in 'Generation 1 Prius Discussion' started by War_Destroyer, Sep 17, 2022.

  1. War_Destroyer

    War_Destroyer Junior Member

    Joined:
    Oct 11, 2021
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    Location:
    Los Angeles
    Vehicle:
    2002 Prius
    Model:
    ----USA----
    So I have a 2002 Prius that I bought last October, it's treated me very well, but I do wonder if it has it's original cat, or had proper replacement at some point. I haven't had to SMOG it yet, but I do wonder. Everything seemed equally worn when I took a peak, nothing seemed hacked in or out. The car does have less than 65K miles, and looks fantastic and well take cared of. Do you guys know how I can properly identify the cat?
     
  2. Josey

    Josey Active Member

    Joined:
    Jun 10, 2019
    290
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    Location:
    Virginia
    Vehicle:
    2003 Prius
    Model:
    One
    Visual inspection is how might be able to tell if it's original or at least oem equivalent. Good pictures and stuff can be found here:
    Prius 1st Gen – Replacing the Catalytic Converters

    As far as functionality goes, you'd need to look at the O2 sensor data. If you have even a low end scantool that provides live data, sit at idle and pull up the streams from the 2 O2 sensors. The upstream sensor (often "sensor 1" on a scanner) should be fluctuating quickly and regularly between about .1V and .9V. The downstream ("sensor 2") can exhibit some fluctuation, but should be mostly inactive.