Can I install an aftermarket catalytic converter in California?
Aftermarket catalytic converters must be exempted from California’s anti-tampering laws in order to be legally sold and installed in the state. To determine the correct catalytic converter part number for your vehicle, you will need its make, model, model year, engine size and test group/engine family designation.
Why are some catalytic converters illegal in California?
The answer is, not enough to qualify for sale in the State of California! In order to be legally sold and installed in California, a catalytic converter must undergo extensive testing to prove that it is durable and meets emission control requirements.
Are high flow cats illegal in California?
To be legal in California, a replacement part such as a new catalytic converter must come with a CARB (Calif. Air Resources Board) “sticker” or must be a direct OEM replacement part. There are no “high flow cats” that have a CARB sticker issued for them.
Can a aftermarket catalytic converter be installed in California?
Aftermarket catalytic converters must be exempted from California’s anti-tampering laws in order to be legally sold and installed in the state.
Can a federal catalytic converter turn on a check engine light?
Installing a federal CAT on a California emission vehicle (if CAT is an exact fit) should not cause the check engine light to turn on, as both components should be identical in function except that the California version has passed CARB (California Air Resources Board) bench tests.
What kind of Inspection does a catalytic converter need?
Catalytic converter visual inspections constitute just one part of the California smog inspection, but if you have made it this far, you now know that it takes a lot of knowledge to do it right. Share this:
When does an aftermarket catalytic converter need an EO?
If an aftermarket catalytic converter is shown to be durable and meets vehicle emission control requirements, it is granted an exemption Executive Order (EO) that allows it to be installed on specific emission controlled vehicles. To search for EOs of exempted aftermarket catalytic converters, please go to the following pages:
How to install a catalytic converter in California?
California-Compliant Installer’s Checklist for New Aftermarket Catalytic Converters 1) The vehicle’s emission warranty for the 2) The installer has confirmed the need for 3) The vehicle is specifically included in 4) The replacement converter is installed i
Installing a federal CAT on a California emission vehicle (if CAT is an exact fit) should not cause the check engine light to turn on, as both components should be identical in function except that the California version has passed CARB (California Air Resources Board) bench tests.
Catalytic converter visual inspections constitute just one part of the California smog inspection, but if you have made it this far, you now know that it takes a lot of knowledge to do it right. Share this:
Do you need a CARB compliant catalytic converter?
Some states now require use of CARB-compliant aftermarket converters in certain circumstances. It is important to know your state’s requirements to determine the correct converter for your application and location. The states referenced below currently have their own regulations governing the sale and installation of aftermarket converters.