LEGOPARTY

Using the “rusted out” lie, dishonest shops will try to convince customers that their catalytic converters need replacing. (They love doing converters, because they usually generate a $300 to $400 repair bill for installing just one part.) Don’t fall for this! Converters often last for at least 100,000 miles (or as long as the car), and if they fail within 7 years or 70,000 miles, they’re probably covered by the manufacturer’s emissions warranty that applies to all owners of a vehicle, not just the original owners.
If a shop says your converter is bad, ask them to show you the proof, then get a second or third opinion—and another estimate—before you allow them to replace it. (I know this is inconvenient, but so is paying $400 for a converter that you don’t need.)