Stripped catalytic converter exhaust flange stud

ANSWER : Yes, absolutely. If the external threads of the stud are damaged, the stud would be extracted, the internal female threads renewed (or a helicoil installed) and a new stud would be placed. If the stud has come out but the internal threads in the manifold are damaged, again either the internal female threads would be renewed or a helicoil would be placed. If you want these steps performed by a certified Mechanic, dispatched by YourMechanic right to your location, please request an exhaust manifold repair and the responding certified mechanic will get this resolved for you. If you have further questions or concerns, do not hesitate to re-contact YourMechanic as we are always here to help you.

ANSWER : Hi there, thanks for writing in. I am not sure why you changed your catalytic converter. Assuming you had a P0420 code, replacing the catalytic converter should of resolved that code. The codes originally stored need to be cleared. The fact your check engine light remains off tells me, you may have fixed the problem. Try disconnecting the negative battery terminal for at least 2 minutes, reconnect. Start and drive the vehicle for 10-15 miles. Re-check for codes. If a code returns on the first drive cycle (pending code), a problem still exists. The check engine light should come back on (the next drive cycle) if, the fault is recognized by the computer. An exhaust leak before the oxygen sensor will cause O2 sensor and catalytic converter codes. If you are having trouble identifying the fault, consider having an expert automotive technician from YourMechanic come to your home or office to inspect and diagnose this issue for you, and make or suggest any repairs as needed.

ANSWER : Hi there. In short, yes – it is highly probable that the check engine light is not 100% caused by the catalytic converter. Most OBD-II trouble codes related to this system are actually caused by O2 sensor failure, electrical harness failure to O2 and the catalytic converter or other emissions systems. On your Honda, there is one catalytic converter, that is comprised of a few individual sections. When it it replaced however, it is replaced as a single unit. In most cases, when a Honda dealership tells you that the catalytic converter is the source, 80% of the time they are correct. I would recommend reading this article and asking yourself if you are experiencing more than 50% of these are occurring.

ANSWER : You are right, the traction control system is not related in any way to the exhaust system (e.g., the catalytic converter) in the vehicle. Traction control involves wheel speed sensors, the ABS system, and electronic controllers. If there is a problem with the traction control system on your vehicle, it is likely that diagnostic trouble codes have been stored and those codes will provide the key clues to finding, and repairing, the fault in the system. A certified Mechanic, dispatched by YourMechanic right to your location, can perform a traction control system diagnostic and let you know of the required repairs. If you have further questions or concerns, do not hesitate to re-contact YourMechanic as we are always here to help you.

ANSWER : Hello. The wrong converter will cause your check engine light to come on and will cause you to not pass emissions. It can also cause some performance and efficiency issues over time. There are specific converters built for all vehicles and that is what needs to be used, especially in California. You need to take it back to the shop that installed the wrong one as it is against emission regulations to install the wrong converter in California.

ANSWER : Hello – I suspect that either the flange joint after the converter has a defect that continues to leak, despite new gaskets, or the muffler is stopped up, increasing exhaust pressure on that joint. I recommend an exhaust system inspection by a mobile, professional mechanic, such as one from YourMechanic, who will come to your location, diagnose this problem, give you an accurate assessment of damage and cost estimate for repairs.

ANSWER : If the DPF filter is plugged up and the DPF light is on, then the DPF filter needs to be replaced. If you were to remove the filter and not use it, then the emissions output will be higher than normal and the DPF light will not go out. I recommend replacing the DPF filter, but if you are still having an issue, then I suggest replacing the catalytic converter system. If you need further assistance with your DPF light being on, then seek out a professional, such as one from Your Mechanic, to help you.

ANSWER : Aftermarket converters are fine to use. Catalytic converters must meet federal emission standards in order to be sold. California and New York have even higher standards, so there may be some aftermarket converters that do not meet those standards. If you would like to purchase a catalytic converter from an outside source, one of our certified mobile technicians can install the catalytic converter for you if you need assistance.