10 Best Catalytic Converter system

Cars produce a lot of gases and fumes called emissions that contribute to air pollution. Therefore, to avert this pollution caused to the environment, several acts were passed into laws to help minimize the number of pollution industries generates. Your car exhaust system comprises several components to minimize emissions and muffle engine noise. Among these components is the catalytic converter.

Getting the best catalytic converter system for your car is essential because of its importance. If you find yourself here, you are looking for a solution to get your car to minimize its emission. This article will expound on a catalytic converter, how it works, the benefits of a catalytic converter, and the types of the catalytic converter. Furthermore, if you want to get a new catalytic converter for your car, this article will help you pick the 10 best catalytic converter systems.

We believe this article contains everything you need to know about catalytic converter systems and getting your car in perfect shape. Let's get the ball rolling as we unveil the secrets behind the catalytic converter system.

What is a catalytic Converter?

The catalytic converter is also known as a cat as it uses a catalyst to convert harmful compounds such as hydrocarbons, carbon monoxide, and nitrogen oxide emitting from your engine. Normally, a combustion engine generates several harmful components into the atmosphere. Therefore, to safeguard the environment and prevent exposure to toxic or harmful gases, every car must use a catalytic converter system.

The catalyst contained in your converter is manufactured with platinum, rhodium, and palladium. These items are rare metals coating a ceramic interior, generally in a bead or honeycomb shape, converting dangerous gasses into less toxic emissions.

Usually, the converter converts about 90% of emissions generated. However, the efficiency can either increase or reduce because of several factors. Catalytic converters are not efficient in converting cooler temperature emissions.

Therefore, taking a short ride or using diesel fuel might reduce your converter efficiency. Nevertheless, nowadays, a particular filter can be added to increase its efficiency to 99% through gathering ultra-fine particles.

What do catalytic converters do?

If you don't know the primary function of a catalytic converter, it is hard to identify the best catalytic converter system. The catalytic converter uses a catalyst to convert harmful compounds from your engine's emission into less harmful gases. It splits or divides any unsafe molecules in the gases coming out from your car before releasing them into the atmosphere.

You can find the catalytic converter beneath your vehicle as it looks like a large metal box. One distinctive feature is the two pipes coming out from the underside of your vehicle. It uses these two pipes and the chamber (catalyst) to make harmful gases safe before being expelled into the air.

The catalytic converter system has an input pipe connected to your car engine. Gases come from the engine into the catalytic converter, where the conversion occurs. A chemical reaction occurs inside the catalytic converter system, which breaks down the pollutants. Furthermore, the less toxic gases move to the converter pipe before expulsion to the air.

The benefit of using a Catalytic Converter

Using a catalytic converter comes with several benefits. Here are a few benefits you can enjoy while using a catalytic converter for your car.

• Drastic reduction of harmful emissions – Poisonous pollutants such as nitrous oxide and carbon monoxide are massively minimized after installing a catalytic converter.
• Produce more fuel-efficient engines – Previously, there were concerns that catalytic converter increases the price of gas. However, the need for a converter has resulted in research in creating fuel-efficient engines.
• Helps reduce dangerous gases – Lead has been one common ingredient you find in gasoline for several years. It's a harmful ingredient that affects human health. However, the catalytic converter helps reduce dangerous gases such as lead that affect human health.

Best Catalytic Converter Product Chart

10 best catalytic converter Reviews

AUTOSAVER88 ‎ATCC0008 Catalytic Converter – Best Overall

Product Feature

• Backed with 5 years warranty
• Heavy-duty stainless steel
• It comes with federal EPA certification

Product Specification

• Brand: AUTOSAVER88
• Model: ATCC0008
• Dimension: ‎40 x 18.9 x 9.5 inches
• Weight: 13.25 pounds

Product Description and Performance

Compared to other catalytic converters, the AUTOSAVER88 ‎ATCC0008 Catalytic Converter is not bulky as it weighs about 13.25 pounds. The manufacturer is a highly professional auto parts team that offers different products, including towing mirrors, LED light bars, taillights, converters, etc.

"Nowadays, finding the best catalytic converter system that is compatible with several types of Chevy Silverado is something priceless."

It's easily installable without requiring any modification as it comes with a standard flange and bolts to ensure it converts harmful gases. It's a perfect fit for your car as the bolt holes have different spacing patterns.

Pros

• Highly compatible
• Great fits for your car
• Quality design

Cons

• Very expensive
• Requires modification for some vehicles

Recommendation:Great catalytic converter that handles your P0420 error code. Overall, it is a high-quality converter that helps minimize harmful emissions.

DNA Motoring OEM-CONV-001 – Best-Fitting Converter

Product Feature

• Manufactured using stainless steel to protect against corrosion and rust
• OEM style replacement
• Highly durable product designed with computerized mandrel-bends

Product Specification

• Brand: DNA Motoring
• Model: OEM-CONV-001
• Dimension: 38.1 x 19.7 x 9.6 inches
• Item weight: 27.4 pounds

Product Description and Performance

The best factory-style catalytic converter is the DNA motoring OEM-CONV-001, as it comes with a firm structure and high-quality material, making the exhaust system work optimally. The converter has a magnificent and smooth look because of the stainless steel used in producing it. Unlike other products that don't deliver, it effectively reduces harmful emissions before being expelled into the air.

"Finding a product with unique features and affordable for your car isn't common. The DNA motoring, despite being affordable, its quality doesn't depreciate. In addition, you can easily install the oxygen sensors as it comes with all the necessary gaskets you need.”

Interestingly, the DNA motoring OEM-CONV-001 catalytic converter is among the best catalytic converter system available online as it is compatible with Silverado/Sierra 2500 99-00, Escalade, Avalanche 1500 02-05, Suburban 1500 / Tahoe / Yukon Xl 00-06, and Silverado/Sierra 1500 99-05.

Pros

• Direct fit configuration
• Simple installation
• Less harmful emissions
• Easy to bolt the assembly

Cons

• Expensive replacement converter

Recommendation: Changing your exhaust system can help free trapped torque, build horsepower, and reduce harmful emissions. We find out that the DNA Motoring catalytic converter performs optimally in this area. If you want a better sound for your car, you should opt for this converter.

Auto Dynasty Factory Style Catalytic Converter–Best Affordable Converter

Product Feature

• Durable catalyst material
• EPA OBDII approved
• Adhere to federal emission models
• Manufactured using high-quality stainless steel
• Bare surface finishing

Product Specification

• Brand: Auto Dynasty
• Model: ADOEMCONV001
• Dimension: ‎40 x 19 x 10 inches
• Weight: 27 pounds

Product Description and Performance

Peradventure, you want a simple and non-frill catalytic converter to reduce harmful emissions, the Auto Dynasty Factory Style Catalytic Converter perfectly fits that prescription. It is one converter with a standard design with outer stainless steel material.

It is somehow big with a dimension of 40 x 19 x 10 inches but still covers your undercarriage. The brackets, hangers, and flanges come enhanced to provide strength and rigidity when attached to your car engine. It is one of the best catalytic converter systems you can get for your car at a relatively low price.

"Every good converter should come with EPA approved. The innovative design and quality material contribute to why it is given the EPA certification. This alone assures you that you are buying the right product."

Pros

• Easy to install
• Sturdy construction
• Very high-quality material

Cons

• Issues with rear gasket
• It doesn't fit all cars

Recommendation: If you want a moderate converter in terms of price and quality, we recommend you opt for the Auto Dynasty Factory Style Catalytic Converter. It doesn't disappoint in reducing harmful emissions.

MagnaFlow Direct-Fit Catalytic Converter – Best EPA complaint Converter

Product Feature

• Stainless steel body
• Ribbed design
• Manufactured with ceramic substrate
• EPA OBDII COMPLIANT

Product Specification

• Brand – MagnaFlow
• Model – MagnaFlow Direct-Fit Catalytic Converter 93419
• Dimension - ‎45.75 x 19 x 11.5 inches
• Item weight – 20 pounds

Product Description and Performance

The MagnaFlow Direct-Fit Catalytic Converter 93419 is one crafted converter to meet the specification of your car. It comes with a pipe-like design that helps eliminate harmful emissions and improve performance.

The converter is different from your traditional converters, as clearly shown in the body design. Nevertheless, most universal converters don't need cutting or welding, but you need to get a professional to weld the converter to your car if you want optimal installation.

MagnaFlow prides itself in producing high-quality converters, and the MagnaFlow Direct-Fit Catalytic Converter 93419 doesn't shy away from that. Most reviewers attest to this fact as it offers superior quality products. The converter helps keep your check engine light off as it comes with a highly accurate CNC robotic manufacturing design.

"It's safe to use this catalytic converter because of the construction as it passes EPA certification. Furthermore, the parts are oriented uniquely, making it easy to use."

Pros

• Reduces harmful or poisonous emissions
• Strong stainless steel body
• Designed to remove check engine light
• Innovative product

Cons

• It’s noisy when installed
• Prone to leakage because of the twisted piping

Recommendation:The MagnaFlow Direct-Fit Catalytic Converter is excellent, especially if you want a converter that is easy to install. Besides this, the oxygen bungs are placed in convenient locations.

YITAMOTOR Catalytic Converter – Best Compatible Converter

Product Feature

• Direct fit design that allows easy installation
• It features aluminized heat shields
• Strong and durable with hangers and brackets
• EPA compliant
• Ensures it keeps engine light off

Product Specification

• Brand: YITAMOTOR
• Model: OG0901Y500-FBA
• Dimension: 20.2 x 15.4 x 7.3 inches
• Weight: 15.07 pounds

Product Description and Performance

Most converters that come fitted to a particular car are costly. However, the YITAMOTOR catalytic converter is the best compatible converter you will find online that fits almost all cars.

Despite its universal feature, it is easy to assemble and install without requiring any expertise. Overall, we find this converter a high-performance converter that helps reduce harmful emissions.

Remarkably, many reviews tag it as one of the best high-flow catalytic converters because it is EPA compliant.

"It's a great catalytic converter that meets all environmental agency standards and requirements. In addition, the honeycomb structure of the converter helps increase contact between the converter area and the exhaust gas, thereby maximizing catalytic action."

Hardly can you ignore the outer stainless steel shell design that helps provide maximum durability, giving you value for your money. The precious metal loading and internal substrates are carefully designed to ensure it provides maximum efficiency.

Pros

• Very robust and durable
• Superior quality
• World-class performance
• It doesn't require any modification
• Easy installation process

Cons

• Compared to other converters, it is costly
• Cheap material

Recommendation:It is the best product to improve your car performance as the increased exhaust flow enables your engine to take adequate power. It's the best bet for your money if you want a good converter for your vehicle.

Walker Exhaust Ultra EPA 93253 – Best Direct-Fit configuration

Product Feature

• The body structure is manufactured using a stainless steel material
• Highly expandable bushing
• Designed to fit all OBDII vehicles
• The metal loads and wash coat helps reduce emission from the tailpipes

Product Specification

• Brand – Walker
• Model – 93253
• Dimension - ‎14.8 x 4.8 x 5 inches
• Weight - 4.85 pounds

Product Description and Performance

One big thing about this converter is the direct-fit configuration that is easy to install. You don't need any new part or medication during the installation because it comes fitted.

Furthermore, the pipe design and outer coating make the Walker Exhaust Ultra EPA 93253 a compact product that fits snugly into any exhaust system.

It offers a customizable design with expandable bushings. In addition, the OE-style design comes with heat shields that match the OE design. This helps protect your undercarriage from the heat the converter creates.

Overall, Walker is well-known for manufacturing quality catalytic converters of a stainless steel body with an aluminized pipe. The Walker Exhaust Ultra EPA 93253 is one of the highly recognized online products.

“Best of everything is the cheap price you can get the converter with a quality harmful emission reduction. It’s a great product that fixes all your P0420 error code in your car.”

Pros

• Offers heat shield
• It doesn’t require any mechanic to install
• Compatible with several vehicles
• High-quality design
• Improves exhaust flow

Cons

• At times, it requires a minor modification

Recommendation: We recommend you get this converter as it delivers excellently in reducing harmful emissions from a car.

Walker Exhaust Ultra EPA 16360 -

Product Feature

• Highly compatible with OBDII cars
• It comes with heat shields, making it appropriate for OE-style
• It has an excellent direct-fit design
• The shields, brackets, hangers, and routers make the installation process easy.
• It keeps the Check engine light off

Product Specification

• Brand: Walker’s
• Model: 16360
• Dimension: 15.5 x 8 x 5 inches
• Weight: 5 Pounds

Product Description and Performance

The Walker Exhaust Ultra EPA 16360 converter is regarded as one of the top-rated converters that helps improve your vehicle exhaust system performance.

Furthermore, the emission outflow is smooth with better quality. Interestingly, it fits perfectly into your exhaust system without any stress during installation.

"It is the best choice for people who want a catalytic converter that can withstand the test of time. It does keep engine life off for common emission codes such as P0420. However, it is not legal for sale for those in California as it only has the EPA certification."

Walker is recognized for creating a quality product, and this stainless steel body converter provides peace of mind as you drive along. It's a direct-fit that matches most vehicles and offers better performance when installed.

Pros

• Easy bolt-on installation
• Improves quality of emission
• Built with high-quality material
• It fits perfectly into exhaust systems

Cons

• Not built as expected

Recommendation: Everything looks perfect for this catalytic converter as the flanges are flat and think. In addition, the bolt holes are situated in the right location that offers a seamless installation process.

AUTOSAVER88 ATCC0052 Catalytic Converter – Best Nissan Converter

Product Feature

• Features heavy-duty stainless stain construction
• 5 years warranty after purchases
• Genuine federal EPA certification
• It fits perfectly into most Nissan vehicles

Product Specification

• Brand: AUTOSAVER88
• Model: ATCC0052
• Dimension: 5.55 x 6.26 x 14.76 inches
• Weight: 6.44 pounds

Product Description and Performance

Nowadays, finding a converter compatible with the 05-12 Nissan Frontier is like passing a needle through the eyes of a dog. However, the AUTOSAVER88 ATCC0052 Catalytic Converter comes in good condition to fit your Nissan Frontier.

Besides this, it can also fit into other vehicles as it is highly compatible with several vehicles. It's one converter that does what it is designed to do. With a heavy-duty stainless that offers maximum durability, the precious metal and internal substrates ensure you get maximum efficiency when installed to your car engine.

“Getting a converter that doesn’t stress you during the installation process comes in handy. The AUTOSAVER88 ATCC0052 Catalytic converter comes stamped and certified with 5 years warranty.”

It's the perfect gadget you need to replace your clogged or leaked catalytic converter. Just buy the converter and fit it to your engine as it comes with hardware and a gasket for easy installation.

Pros

• EPA certified
• Easy installation with gasket and hardware included in the package
• Long-term durability
• Built with stainless steel material
• Very affordable

Cons

• Not compatible with some Nissan vehicles
• A little weighted

Recommendation: The AUTOSAVER88 ATCC0052 Catalytic is one choice you need for your Nissan vehicle if you want to reduce harmful emissions. Besides this, it is carefully designed to ensure it improves your car's performance and efficiency.

MagnaFlow Universal Catalytic Converter – Best Durable converter

Product Feature

• Stainless steel construction
• Compliant design features
• Durable welded close
• Keeps check engine light off

Product Specification

• Brand: MagnaFlow Exhaust
• Model: 51356
• Dimension: 16 x 5 x 4.75 inches
• Weight: 5 Pounds

Product Description and Performance

The MagnaFlow exhaust is among the best catalytic converter systems available to replace your converter. It is forefront in manufacturing a universal catalytic system for direct-fit application starting from the brand. It's a product that competes with top brands in the industry as it is built from quality product that helps minimize carbon dioxide emissions.

It can fit several direct-fit applications as it covers different vehicles. Nevertheless, you might require a professional installer to get it working optimally.

"One interesting feature is that it can be welded to your car body to provide a stronger fit. We believe it is among the best catalytic converter you will find for any car."

Pros

• Removes check engine light
• It is very affordable for a converter with high-quality material
• Nice fitting aftermarket part
• Reduces carbon emission

Cons

• Lacks CARB compliant

Recommendation: The best universal catalytic converter available at an affordable price. You can see the difference in performance as it performs optimally to reduce carbon emissions.

MAYASAF 2" Inlet/Outlet Universal Catalytic Converter – Best for Price

Product Feature

• EPA Certified with 2 years warranty
• It fits easily with original vehicles
• Manufactured from high-quality stainless steel material

Product Specification

• Brand: MAYASAF
• Model: MSFTWCC8009
• Dimension: 13.54 x 4.72 x 4.72 inches
• Weight: 3.61 pounds

Product Description and Performance

Our last best catalytic converter system in this review is the MAYASAF 2" Inlet/Outlet Universal Catalytic Converter. It features a standard 2 inches diameter inlet and outlet, with an overall length of 13 inches. Although it doesn't fit all vehicles, you have to check the manufacturer's manual if it is designed for your car model.

“It’s a great product that is affordable, even though you can’t use it within California as it doesn’t meet the CARB requirement.”

The outlet pipe contains a single two-bolt welded flange, whereas the inlet pipe has dual functioning three bolt flanges and spinners.

Pros

• Removes P0420 error codes
• Reasonable price for excellent quality
• Easy installation process

Cons

• Non-compliant with CARB

Recommendation: For beginners, it's a unique converter from others in our list as it offers standard stainless steel with inlet and outlet features. If not for anything, it removes P0420 error codes is something worth investing in.

What is the difference between a three-way catalytic converter and a two-way converter?

To understand the difference between these catalytic converters, you need to know the two primary catalysts in a catalytic converter system. The catalytic converter system comprises the reduction and oxidation catalyst.

The reduction catalysts help minimize nitrogen oxide pollution by eliminating oxygen in the system. Nitrogen oxides are broken into oxygen and nitrogen gases, which naturally are harmless. The reduction catalysts break up these two different elements, making them less harmful to the environment. However, the oxidation catalyst changes carbon monoxide into carbon dioxide using an adversary process by adding oxygen.

Nowadays, depending on your car year and converter type it has, you might not find a reduction catalyst in it. The two-way catalyst converter was included in most vehicles until 1981, when it was stopped. Cars before this period only had oxidation catalysts that helped convert carbon monoxide into carbon dioxide. Furthermore, hydrocarbons are converted to water and carbon dioxide.

On the other hand, the three-way catalyst converter started where the two-catalyst converted ended. It performs the same function as the two-way catalyst but with a reduction catalyst as it changes nitrogen oxides to nitrogen and oxygen gases. Therefore, the three-way catalyst converter is an updated version of the two-way catalyst since it performs the same function but with an additional feature.

Diesel engines use the two-way catalyst system with converters designed to work specifically with diesel exhausts. Converters for diesel engines focus on particulates called soluble organic fractions.

Buying guide for the best aftermarket catalytic converter

Thinking of getting the best catalytic converter system for your car, you need a guide that will help you determine what to look for. Interestingly, it's one part that most people that want to find an aftermarket catalytic converter neglect. However, we understand how vital a converter is for your car. This section will carefully look at key features when buying a catalytic converter for your car.

At the end of everything, you want something that not only fits your car but lasts for a while. Investing in a good converter is very important but reinvesting after a short period isn't something you want to experience. Therefore, let's explore essential features to check when buying the best catalytic converter system in 2022.

Product material

The material used to manufacture the catalytic converter is extremely important to determine how long it lasts. Normally, a catalytic box should come with beads inside that box, coated with the best material.

The two popular materials used to manufacture converter systems are ceria and aluminum. In addition, you can find compounds such as Rhodium, platinum, and gold used to manufacture some converters.

Catalytic converter location

Another important thing to consider when buying the best catalytic converter system is its location. Normally, it should be between your engine and muffler. It shouldn't be confused to be part of your engine exhaust system. Nevertheless, model cars come with different types of converters. You might find more than one converter attached to the car in most situations.

Converter types

Converters are available in different types; therefore, you need to understand the function of each type. Generally, you will find two-way converters or three-way converters.

The two-way catalytic converter performs two tasks simultaneously. It converts carbon monoxide into carbon dioxide while converting hydrocarbons into carbon dioxide and water. Consequently, the two-way converter helps convert two poisonous compounds into less harmful gases.

However, three-way converters perform three different tasks. Besides the two-way converter's function, they also converter a third harmful gas and expel it into the air. Therefore, when purchasing a converter, you need to consider the converter type.

Fitting type

If you can't get a suitable fitting for your car, you shouldn't consider replacing your converter. It's paramount to find a catalytic converter that suits your car model; else, you will have challenges getting it to work properly. Fittings are available in two types – direct and universal catalytic converters.

• Direct Fitting – As the name, you can fix it directly into your car using the bolt. These kinds of converters are best suited for factory-fitted cars or OED vehicles. The idea behind using a direct fitting converter is to minimize modification when using it. Because of cost and time, many people prefer using a direct fitting converter. It is easy to install without hiring a professional.
• Universal Fitting – This requires some form of modification to work properly. They are not OED components and are cheaper compared to direct-fitting converters. Nevertheless, you need some set of specialized tools to get them installed. You have to meet a mechanic or pay someone to get them installed.

Emission system

If you reside in the United States, you might want to put this into consideration because there are only two accepted emission systems. You can choose the federal regulation or California Air Resource Board (CARB) system. You can check the emission system in your car hood or product detail.

The federal regulation emission system comes with regulations consistent with the environmental protection agency responsible for establishing carbon regulation. However, the CARB is responsible for establishing carbon regulation in California and has stricter measures. Because of this, you hardly find many catalytic converters with CARB regulation.

However, most cars manufactured in California are CRAB compliant. To know if your car is CRAB compliant, you can check the converter to see if it has any stamps. The stamp should include the manufacturing date, part number, installation directions, and CARB number.

Grade

You have two grades to look at when buying the best catalytic converter system. These grades include the OBDII and OEM grades. The OBDII grade conforms to tier 0 and 1 of the federal emissions, whereas the OEM conforms to the CARB emission system.

What other factors to consider?

When buying the best catalytic converter system, you need to look at several parts, especially during replacement. The oxygen sensor is essential and should be replaced with the system. Practically, an old oxygen sensor can also cause an error code.

Therefore, you can replace the catalytic converter and the oxygen sensor simultaneously. This can clear all the error codes you might be receiving. In addition, also check the exhaust parts such as the pipes, headers, and manifold when replacing your catalytic converter.

FAQ's

Judgment

Catalytic converters are an essential component your car needs. Therefore, getting the best catalytic converter system for your car is crucial, affecting the overall performance. We have analyzed the best 10 catalytic converter systems available in the market, considering their grade, fittings, and types. We strongly suggest you choose from the list as they have undergone serious research.