When it comes to aftermarket catalytic converter vs OEM, the decision depends upon your requirements and budget. Keep reading to explore the reasons which one is better!
Does your mechanic just ask you to replace your catalytic converter? If yes, he must have asked a most common question. And the question is which catalytic converter you want to install an aftermarket catalytic converter or OEM one. It’s the point where a question may hit your mind which catalytic converter is better? And which is the cheap catalytic converter?
We’re here to make the decision-making easy for you. You might be thinking about how we’ll do that? Well, we will do it by comparing the aftermarket catalytic converter vs OEM catalytic converter.
Before diving into the main content, let’s look at what the catalytic converter is and what does it do? So are you ready to dive into the flood of knowledge!
What is a catalytic converter?
A catalytic converter is an essential part of your car’s exhaust system. It converts harmful gases such as carbon dioxide and nitrous oxide into harmless gases.
It converts carbon monoxide into carbon dioxide. On the other hand, it converts nitrous oxide into oxygen and nitrogen. All these processes occur with the help of catalysts such as platinum, palladium, and gold that are present in it.
No doubt, automakers design them for lifetime use. But still, you may have to replace them due to their failure. Most importantly, improper maintenance is the primary reason behind its failure.
Moreover, if your car fails the local inspection, a bad catalytic converter may be the reason.
What are Aftermarket catalytic converters?
An aftermarket catalytic converter is not identical to the original catalytic converter. These are the best cost-effective options than the original catalytic converter. But, you have to be careful while buying the best catalytic converters. The reason is different types of associated downsides with the aftermarket. Thus, you need to choose the perfect one.
Most importantly, a catalytic converter should meet the requirements set by your state or region as well as the vehicle compatibility. Otherwise, passing the emission test will be challenging for you without a catalytic converter.
A catalytic converter may get exemption from the EO. However, aftermarket converter should be durable for that. Also, it should meet the requirements of vehicle emission control.
What are OEM catalytic converters?
While considering the OEM vs aftermarket, it is also essential to know what the OEM catalytic converter is. OEM is also known as Original Equipment Manufacturer. It is not welded into the exhaust system. However, these are manufactured especially as a replacement component.
Also, there is no need for welding or cutting while installing OEM catalytic converters. You can just use a ratchet to open the flange or bolt attachment.
Above all, it’s pretty straightforward to replace OEM jacks. Moreover, if you live in California, you don’t need to worry about the failure of the emission test. The reason is that OEM catalytic converters come with carbohydrate certifications.
However, the higher cost is one downside to OEM converters.
Aftermarket catalytic converter vs OEM, which one is better?
The first question that may come to one’s mind while buying a catalytic converter is: are all the catalytic converter the same? Or is there any difference between aftermarket and OEM catalytic converter?
Yes, they are different from each other in many aspects. In this section, we’ll learn how OEM and aftermarket converters are different from each other.
Quality difference:
Quality is the major thing to consider while buying anything. That’s why it’s important to know the quality difference while exploring aftermarket catalytic converter vs OEM catalytic converter.
● OEM catalytic converter:
Since reliable manufacturer offers OEM parts, so you don’t need to worry about their quality. The same rule applies to catalytic converters. Even you can go for the car emission test with full confidence. There is no doubt in it that your car will pass the emission test with OEM catalytic converter.
● Aftermarket catalytic converter:
The quality of the aftermarket catalytic converter may vary. While buying the aftermarket converter, you have to ask the following question:
● Is the converter EPA compliant?
● Does the converter have a warranty of a minimum of 5 years?
If the answers to these questions are “yes,” you can buy that catalytic converter.
Cost:
Initially, the aftermarket catalytic converters are much cost-effective than the OEM ones.
The better quality aftermarket catalytic converters will improve your car’s emission system leading to save costs. So, buying an aftermarket product that might be the cheapest can be a wise decision for you when budget is the main concern.
If you have no problem with the budget, you can buy OEM Catalytic converters for getting the best performance.
Therefore, we suggest you go with OEM catalytic converter if possible. It will prevent you from the hassle of replacing the converter. Moreover, it keeps you away from the tension of a bad catalytic converter for years.
Amount of precious metals:
Probably, you have noticed the larger physical size of the OEM catalytic converters. Well, the reason is the higher amount of precious metals in the OEM converters than the aftermarket converters. And it might be the reason for the lower cost of the aftermarket converters.
Since precious metals catalyze the conversion process, the more amount of precious metals means more efficiency. So, you will get better performance for using OEM catalytic converter. During reselling or making scrap of this converter, you will get more value.
Moreover, the aftermarket converter may be unable to pass the emission test due to less precious metal.
Conclusion:
Generally, sometimes it becomes essential to replace a catalytic converter. In that case, you must know which is better in OEM vs aftermarket converter. After reading this article, you must be well aware that the OEM converters are the best converters and aftermarket catalytic converter is a much cost-effective option.
No doubt, the initial cost of the OEM catalytic converters is high. But you will get the better performance than aftermarket ones. Hope you are now clear regarding aftermarket catalytic converter vs OEM.
Therefore, we suggest both catalytic converters according to your requirements.
