Emissions
Catalytic converter replacement: what it costs
Wide range: this job varies a lot. Itemize your quote for a better answer.
How this range is built
| Part of the job | Low | High |
|---|---|---|
| Parts | $300 | $1,900 |
| Labor: 1.2 to 2.5 hours × $110 to $150 an hour | $132 | $375 |
| Fees: shop supplies, disposal, diagnostics | $0 | $40 |
| Total, rounded | $430 | $2,325 |
The hourly rate is the BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics, May 2025 average pay for this trade in the US, $27.13 an hour, times 4 to 5.5 to cover what a shop bills (overhead, tools, insurance, profit). Parts are a band from budget aftermarket to the manufacturer part. In California and New York, parts cost more because those states require a California-certified converter. Full method.
Not a repair shop, estimates only. Typical range, estimate. Not a quote. Your car, parts and shop change the number.
The catalytic converter cleans exhaust gases. A failed or clogged one causes codes like P0420, poor power, a rotten egg smell and a failed emissions test.
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What is usually included
- New catalytic converter
- New gaskets and hardware
- Oxygen sensor check
- Clear codes
- Emissions readiness drive
What moves the price
- Federal versus California-compliant converter (CA and NY cars need the pricier CARB-certified part)
- Direct-fit versus universal
- Front or rear converter
- Welded versus bolted design
Questions to ask before you say yes
- Is the converter compliant for my state?
- Did you test the O2 sensors first?
- Was the root cause found?
- Does the converter come with a warranty that is accepted for emissions?
Can you do it yourself?
Not a great DIY; rusted bolts, welded parts, and legal compliance make it better done by a shop.
Shopping for the part? Search car parts on eBay (affiliate link, disclosure). Make sure the part fits your car before buying.
Common questions
Why is a catalytic converter so expensive?
It contains precious metals like platinum and palladium. Cars sold in Massachusetts must often use a CARB-approved converter, which costs more than a standard one.
Does a P0420 always mean a bad converter?
No. An old oxygen sensor, an exhaust leak or an engine misfire can set the same code. Ask the shop to test those before replacing an expensive converter.
Is a warranty available?
Many cars have a federal emissions warranty for 8 years or 80,000 miles. Check before you pay.
How much does catalytic converter replacement cost?
A typical range across the US is $430 to $2,325. That is an estimate from parts prices, labor hours and the local labor rate, not a quote.
Typical range in 10 metro areas
Only the labor rate changes between cities. Same parts, same hours.
| Area | Typical range, estimate |
|---|---|
| Boston area, Massachusetts | $450 to $2,400 |
| New York City area | $560 to $3,125 |
| Los Angeles area, California | $590 to $3,325 |
| Chicago area, Illinois | $430 to $2,350 |
| Houston area, Texas | $420 to $2,325 |
| Dallas-Fort Worth area, Texas | $420 to $2,325 |
| Phoenix area, Arizona | $430 to $2,325 |
| Atlanta area, Georgia | $430 to $2,350 |
| Miami area, Florida | $420 to $2,325 |
| Seattle area, Washington | $450 to $2,375 |