Catalytic converters are greatly involved with automobile emission control. It is why the answer to the question, “will muffler shop remove catalytic converter?” is not so simple.
Removal of a catalytic converter is essentially illegal in many states. But Yes, it is possible to do so by following the right procedure. Muffler shops will remove catalytic converters by following the guidelines provided by the state. So, planning to do it on your own is not a great idea.
This component is quite controversial amongst car enthusiasts. Some people believe in its necessity, while some refuse to do so. Confused about what should you do? Don’t worry! Because in this write-up, we will be discussing everything related to catalytic converter removal.
Does a Muffler Delete Remove Catalytic Converter?
Catalytic converters are a part of the exhaust system. It catalyzes the harmful gasses released by combustion and muffles the additional sound created by the vehicle. So, it is quite similar to a muffler.
The chances of removing a cat converter during a muffler delete are low. So, no, a muffler delete will not remove a cat converter. A muffler delete process is just what the name suggests. You will only get rid of the muffler and nothing else.
But the cat converter will get removed during a straight pipe exhaust procedure. Lots of people use these two procedures interchangeably, but they are very different.
What Happens to a Car When the Catalytic Converter Is Removed?
Every component in a vehicle has a purpose. A cat converter is not different. It is supposed to react with a toxic gas called carbon monoxide created through fuel combustion. And create carbon dioxide which is later released into the atmosphere.
Since the catalytic converter is related to emission control, removing it without a legitimate reason is illegal. The EPA has strict rules and regulations related to it. In many countries around the world, removing the car’s cat converter is a serious offense.
Federal law in the US makes it illegal to remove a functioning catalytic converter. You can only replace or fix your cat converter if it is damaged, needs to be replaced, or was stolen. If you are caught without a cat converter, you will have to pay serious fines.
These mixed opinions make the cat converter a very controversial component. Some car enthusiasts believe catalytic converters are an important part of a vehicle while some don’t.
When you delete the catalytic converter, your vehicle will no longer be the same. It will face some visible changes. These changes can be both advantages and disadvantages depending on your views.
1. Your vehicle will sound stronger and louder
Catalytic converters are a part of mufflers in regular cars. So, when you do a muffler delete, the cat converter in your car is removed too.
Cat converters work almost similar to a muffler too. The impact of the gases coming from the engine because of the fuel burning and combustion will create a loud noise. This component reduces and muffles that noise.
A lot of people opt for a muffler delete because it enhances the exhaust sound of their car. If you are one of them, then a catalytic converter delete will work as an advantage for you.
But if you are not, you will be able to feel the absence of your cat converter. Because the sound of your vehicle will be significantly louder.
2. You can significantly decrease the engine temperature during operation
A catalytic converter creates a constriction to impact the exhaust gases from leaving the car’s system and entering the atmosphere. Due to the constriction, the engine has to run more efficiently to generate more power.
This creates extra heat inside the engine. When you remove the cat converter, the constriction goes away too. Your engine performs at its full capacity while producing minimum heat.
3. You will get better gas mileage
In some models of vehicles, removing a catalytic converter allows the engine to perform freely, without any constriction.
This improves fuel consumption significantly. This change does not happen to every type of car, so don’t be disappointed if it doesn’t happen to yours.
Even without better gas mileage, your car will still experience a boost in power. It will ultimately lead to efficiency either way.
4. Wide range of fuel options
Catalytic converters can become a roadblock between your car and several types of fuels. For example, if you have a catalytic converter in your vehicle, then you cannot use leaded fuel or leaded gasoline. Because, leaded fuels will destroy the catalyst inside the converter, and will ruin your vehicle too.
When you remove this component from our car, you are receiving access to a wide array of high-performance fuels. High-performance fuels will only boost the performance of your car and keep the engine healthy!
5. Significant rise in horsepower
Most cars can experience a significant boost in power in the absence of a catalytic converter It happens because, with the cat converter’s removal, a strong exhaust gas exit source gets created. It leads to the reduction of engine back pressure.
Also due to the removal of this component, plenty of space frees up. This space allows enough airflow to the combustion chamber of your car. It leads to a faster combustion process, and a stronger car.
So, with a catalytic converter delete, your engine will be able to perform with its maximum power.
Do Muffler Shops Install Catalytic Converters?
Yes, muffler shops will install catalytic converters for you. Not only that, but muffler shops also sell, fix, and repair catalytic converters.
Many states in the US including California have very strict laws regarding catalytic converters. It is illegal to remove a perfectly working catalytic converter. But that does not mean there is no legal way to remove your catalytic converter.
And here, the legal method is taking the help of a professional or going to a muffler shop. A professional mechanic knows all the steps they need to follow here.
The EPA states that a catalytic converter can only be removed when it fails the emissions inspection held by the state. A cat converter will fail to meet the criteria of a local or state emission inspection test when it is damaged or needs to be replaced.
The EPA also states when the removal and replacement take place, the whole process needs to be documented by a professional mechanic.
You don’t have to worry about the new converter meeting state requirements. All the workers in a muffler shop are aware of the rules and regulations. And a muffler shop always ensures everything is done ethically.
How Much Does It Cost to Have a Catalytic Converter Removed?
The cost of a catalytic converter delete varies from one model to another. It also depends on the muffler shop too.
As federal law in the USA states, you need to replace a damaged catalytic converter with a new cat converter.
And it needs to meet state requirements. It has to be identical to the factory original converter. And the installation takes place following strict guidelines.
The estimated cost to remove a catalytic converter is around $200 to $500. This is only the labor fee and does not include the price of the parts. Catalytic converters carry chemical components, and laborers are directly exposed to them. It is why the labor fee of a catalytic converter removal, replacement, or repair is so high.
If you want to replace a damaged catalytic converter, then you will have to spend around $2250 to $3000 on the new converter only. Labor fees can range from $80 to $140 an hour.
And the estimated cost of repairing a damaged cat converter ranges anywhere from $940 to $2500 depending on the model of your vehicle, the parts, and the labor.
FAQs:
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Do muffler shops sell catalytic converters?
Muffler shops sell catalytic converters. They sell brand-new converters to people who ask for a replacement. And they sell old converters as scrap metal for several hundred dollars.
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Do muffler shops fix catalytic converters?
Yes, your local muffler shop will fix catalytic converters. Tampering with emission-related components can be quite risky. This is why seeking professional help is a much better idea here. Local muffler shops are aware of the proper guidelines. They will follow the rules and fix your cat converter.
Final Words
So, will muffler shop remove catalytic converter? Yes, it will. Muffler shops remove, install, and repair catalytic converters.
Going to a muffler shop for a catalytic converter delete is a great option. Catalytic converters are filled with various chemical components. You should not try to remove it on your own. Taking professional help here is better because they carry all the necessary components to safely remove it.
So, if you are planning to get a catalytic converter delete, visit your nearest muffler shop today!
