Check engine light turned on, catalytic converter issue

TEDD1185

MEMBER
2002 TOYOTA CAMRY
4 CYL
2WD
MANUAL
155,000 MILES

My check engine light came on. I used a computer to diagnose the problem. The code the computer gave me was for a catalyst problem. I am assuming my catalytic converter needs to be replaced. I intend to buy a direct fit converter and install it myself. Along with an O2 sensor. I am not sure why the original catalytic converter failed. I do not detect any bad smells. However, my engine has been idling at under 1,000 rpm's and will stall easily when shifting because of the low rpm's. What do I need to check in order to insure a new catalytic converter will not fail?

3 Replies

CARADIODOC

MECHANIC
33,738 POSTS

Why do you assume the catalytic converter failed? It is more common to have an oxygen sensor problem. You might want to look at the sensor data first to see why the fault code appeared.

Caradiodoc

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Friday, March 12th, 2010 AT 11:52 AM

VIJAYSAI KANDIMALLA

MEMBER
1 POST

Hello!

I have 2002 Toyota Camry. My engine light is on from many days. I got it repaired, one catalytic converter was replaced and also an o2 sensor. But I got the same problem again. But this time the other one, which connects from front to rear.

The mechanic says now the other catalytic converter has an issue. It would not affect my car performance or anything. Please let me know how soon I need to get it to repair it. Will it have major problems?

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Monday, June 25th, 2018 AT 7:56 PM

DANNY L

MECHANIC
5,648 POSTS

Hello, I am Danny.

Yes, although you may not notice, it can affect your vehicles performance and possibly cause damage. Having the check engine light on will also make your vehicle not able to perform or pass a smog check. Having a faulty/damaged catalytic converter can result in higher exhaust temperatures and/or faulty data sent to the vehicles computer. This can possibly run the risk of damaging the emissions system and or affect MPG. They can be a bit pricey but I suggest getting done ASAP to ensure a great running vehicle!

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Monday, June 25th, 2018 AT 11:08 PM