Hey guys
I have a 99 Suburban and the "service engine" light went on.
Had it checked and they told me I need a new catalytic converter.
Vehicle runs fine and all I just wont pass emissions when the time comes.
The place quoted me around 600 bucks which I think is high.
I looked at ebay and found cats for under 3 bills.
I dont know if that ebay stuff will fit but I cant imagine labor taking more than an hour or two.
Where do you guys buy parts for something like that and about how much time should it take?

Thanks

 

converters are one of the things I always recommend staying with OEM, 99 may not be too picky but anything newer sometimes the aftermarket parts are designed just enough differently that they still throw codes. I haven't looked for this exact case but in general $600 for a cat installed doesn't sound high at all and the labor would depend on if its a cut and weld job or just bolt on. Then you have to consider the age and rust factor.

 

Non-OEM cats are one of those things where you get what you pay for.

 

Its an older truck obviously and with 91k miles and in excellent condition, but if I found a cheap price on a cat and it lasted 4-5 years Id be happy.

 

Just curious, does your engine burn any oil? If so, about how much?

 

I havent noticed any burnt oil, but thats something to consider.
I think its just 17 years old.

 

If your motor is burning a good deal of oil, you just may eventually ruin a new cat. converter, if I'm not mistaken. If you're not going to keep the car much longer, then I would just go the cheap route and get aftermarket cats.