Check Engine - Catalytic Converter

[UK_PILOT]

Folks,
I had a check engine in my 2006 Honda pilot couple of months back, when I took the vehicle to my dealer they diagnosed saying I need to replace the catalytic converter which costs around $2100.
So I started cross checking with other Mechanics for cheaper price, I drove the vehicle for couple of days, as the Mechanic said he needs couple of days for the parts. In mean time my check engine light got vanished and I thought problem was gone.
Now the check engine light is back again , Shell I get this diagnosed with dealer again or do I get this fixed with outside mechanic.

Can you please advise me!

Thanks.

[Strate L O S S]

autozone reads codes for free, good idea to go there and get it read.

also if you have less than 80k miles...

http://www.epa.gov/otaq//consumer/warr95fs.txt


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[UK_PILOT]

Thanks Strate LOSS, I have around 93k miles on my pilot. Does Autozone replace catalytic converters? Debating whether getting this repaired at dealer or outside mechanic?

[Strate L O S S]

Autozone doesn't do these repairs but buying a catalytic converter on eBay/Amazon and getting someone to replace will definitely only cost you hundreds.

IDK what your location is but if you're around NYC I can do it for you for cheap as it's fairly easy.

Also, at least where I am(Brooklyn NYC) independent mechanics usually setup around Autozones and are for hire for decent prices. I wouldn't hire them for a trans rebuild but a cat install? sure


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[hondafan4evr]

It may be related to a loose gas cap. A known issue with Pilot's. Lots of threads on CC's. I had to replace the bank 2 CC. Got the CC and gaskets from a Honda dealer and had it installed by a local Midas shop. Saved a ton of money. $2100 is a total rip off.

[TomStromie]

I just had one of the CCs replaced on my wife's 2007 Pilot. I've seen several posts and the independent mechanic I used said the same thing - use a Honda CC or the check engine light will come right back on. The after-market ones do not get along with the sensitive Honda sensors.

BTW, the total cost for one OEM CC and 4 after-market O2 sensors installed was $1,150. The CC alone was over $400. That's a long way from your estimate of $2,100.

[hondafan4evr]

Originally Posted by TomStromie

I just had one of the CCs replaced on my wife's 2007 Pilot. I've seen several posts and the independent mechanic I used said the same thing - use a Honda CC or the check engine light will come right back on. The after-market ones do not get along with the sensitive Honda sensors.

BTW, the total cost for one OEM CC and 4 after-market O2 sensors installed was $1,150. The CC alone was over $400. That's a long way from your estimate of $2,100.

Did the shop scope the code(s) to confirm that the O2 sensors need replacement? For me a Honda bank 2 CC was a tad over $300 delivered, plus an install of $175.00. $475 vs the $795 the Honda dealer quoted!

[TomStromie]

Originally Posted by hondafan4evr

Did the shop scope the code(s) to confirm that the O2 sensors need replacement? For me a Honda bank 2 CC was a tad over $300 delivered, plus an install of $175.00. $475 vs the $795 the Honda dealer quoted!

I don't know how the shop knew the O2 sensors needed replacement. I think the root cause of the issue was that the #5 plug came loose and misfired some causing unburned fuel to enter the CC. The shop is in a small town, has an excellent reputation and is well trusted.

[sparkuzg]

My bank 1 cat failed after 226,000 miles, I just had mine change a couple of weeks ago, mine was bank 1, the cat itself cost $398.28+ tax from the dealer, plus 12 for both gaskets, plus $100 for an outside mechanic total cost of$550.00 I did not change the O2 sensors. Dealer wanted $1200.

[Pilot05]

Just replaced the rear bank 1 Cat.
Cat plus shields, gaskets bolts, etc (12 pieces) ran $385 from majestic.
Local mechanic who lets me bring parts and who does big volume, charged $170.....so $555 all in. Less than half the Dealer price.
Had code P0420 and learned from this board (confirmed by mechanic)to use only an OEM cat