Get Unbelievable Performance From These 5 Best Catalytic Converters!

A catalytic converter is mandatory for all road vehicles. A few states impose penalties of up to $10,000 on drivers whose vehicles lack catalytic converters. Thus, always have your converter inspected, and if necessary, replace it with the best catalytic converters to stay within the law. Not only does this allow for better emission performance, but it also helps turn off flashing check engine lights (and more)!

If you’re lost among thousands of products on the market and need honest recommendations, this Driverevolve post is precisely what you’re after.

	Specs	Best For
AUTOSAVER88 Nissan Altima 2.5L Direct-Fit	Brand: AUTOSAVER88 Item Weight: 12.58 pounds Product Dimensions: ‎18.9 x 6.3 x 14.5 inches	Best Overall
Flowmaster 2230130 223 Series	Brand: Flowmaster Item Weight: 2 pounds Product Dimensions: ‎10.5 x 4.0 x 4.0 inches	Best For Big Automobiles
MagnaFlow 51356 Universal Catalytic Converter	Brand: MagnaFlow Exhaust Products Item Weight: 5 pounds Product Dimensions: ‎16 x 5 x 4.75 inches	Best High Flow Catalytic Converter
MagnaFlow 447206 Universal Catalytic Converter	Brand: MagnaFlow Exhaust Products Item Weight: 4 pounds Product Dimensions: ‎14 x 6.63 x 4.5 inches	Best CARB Unit
Evan-Fischer REPG960301 Silver Powder-Coated Catalytic Converter	Brand: Evan Fischer Item Weight: ‎61.5 pounds Product Dimensions: ‎40 x 22 x 14 inches	Easiest To Install

5 Best Catalytic Converters Of 2023 

AUTOSAVER88 Nissan Altima 2.5L Direct-Fit – Best Overall

With its high efficiency, AUTOSAVER88 is among the biggest catalytic converter manufacturers. And AUTOSAVER88 Nissan Altima 2.5L Direct-Fit is an excellent example of high quality inside out.

Indeed, the manufacturer equips this converter with a sturdy stainless steel casing on the outside while inside; they also design a honeycomb-like interior to maximize airflow.

This structure enables optimal catalytic reaction with exhaust gasses without sacrificing flow rate and lowering back pressure. Your car’s performance will be better thanks to this improved exhaust flow.

The results are a boost in horsepower and a decrease in fuel consumption. Your AUTOSAVER88 Nissan Altima’s catalytic converter will also mitigate the damage caused by your motor getting too hot. 

But it can do more than just improve fuel efficiency, horsepower, and engine lifespan; it turns off the flashing check engine lights and frees up space in your exhaust system, making sure everything is in optimal working conditions. 

AUTOSAVER88 has created the Altima with rare materials in its innermost layer for maximum efficiency and to prevent the MIL (malfunction indicator light). It is also very cost-effective, making it an excellent financial investment.

This product is a factory-standard fit, so it’s easy to install and operate. There are also direct bolts for this catalytic converter in the package, so you won’t need to make any other adjustments to your car to accommodate it. 

This unit has been officially approved by the EPA and is OBDII-compatible. Another thing to remember is that it won’t be legal to utilize in California because it isn’t a CARB.

Pros:

• Assures the highest possible performance.
• Setting up is a breeze.
• Finest quality materials.

Cons:

• A few bolt holes don’t fit.

Flowmaster 2230130 223 Series – Best For Big Automobiles

The Flowmaster converter performs very well in terms of flow. This adaptable component is a perfect fit and is up to OEM quality requirements.

To ensure long life and reliable power, the ceramic core of this Flowmaster catalytic converter is backed by a quality stainless steel casing. It has a round design and measures 10.50 inches in length and 4 inches in width. Its inlet and output ports are flip-fit for convenience.

The Flowmaster catalytic converter is suitable for a variety of uses. The high-quality materials used in its design guarantee its longevity and resilience. Since it is a universal part, you may have to do extra work, like cuts and metalwork, to get it ready for setup.

The inner materials and valuable metals result from meticulous engineering for peak effectiveness. It shuts check engine light warnings, boosts power output, and reduces gas mileage. This Flowmaster catalytic converter is simple and eliminates unpleasant exhaust odors.

Due to its producing the highest possible flow, it also effectively safeguards your vehicle’s other vital parts.

In cars with a mass of up to 5500 pounds and a motor displacement of up to 5.9 liters, this Flowmaster converter of the 3-way converter is strongly advised. Despite not meeting CARB requirements, it has received Federal EPA approval and is legal in 49 states.

Pros:

• Subdues the stench of emission.
• Flip-fit ports.
• Best on big cars.

Cons:

• May begin to shake slightly over time.

MagnaFlow 51356 Universal Catalytic Converter
– Best High Flow Catalytic Converter

MagnaFlow 51356 is the best high-flow converter on this list. If your car has been significantly customized or is turbocharged, upgrading to a high-flow cat can allows you to get the most out of the improved airflow and the accompanying horsepower. 

It’s superior to a regular cat because it improves performance, reduces emissions, and makes a beautiful sound once fixed to an automobile’s engine.

Thanks to its stainless steel material, this Magna Flow unit is both solid and long-lasting. Meanwhile, its ceramic substrate helps to ensure a consistent flow velocity.

Increased horsepower and reduced fuel usage are just two of the many ways in which MagnaFlow’s universal converter may benefit your car’s performance. As a result of the constant O2 delivery, there is also no risk of back pressure.

In addition, it helps to turn your blinking “engine check light” off. Adopting computer numerically controlled (CNC) robotics during production ensured the unit’s accuracy and longevity. The manufacturer has designed this catalytic converter to exact OEM specifications and surpasses all applicable EPA regulations.

Another of the most impressive things about this MagnaFlow 51356 catalytic converter is its specialized design for gasoline and diesel engines.

The MagnaFlow converter uses high-quality materials and is relatively budget-friendly. It also comes with a guarantee that covers both the vehicle’s construction for 50,000 miles and its emissions for 25,000 miles.

Since it is a universal converter, some adjustments may be necessary for installation. Similar to the AUTOSAVER88 Nissan Altima converter, there have been no CARB certifications for this MagnaFlow converter, although it does meet federal EPA standards.

And although it is well-known for its straightforward installation, you might need some help because it calls for welding and cuts.

Pros:

• Durable.
• Highly compatible with diesel vehicles.
• Cost-effective.

Cons:

• Incompatible with some automobiles.

MagnaFlow 447206 Universal Catalytic Converter – Best CARB Unit

MagnaFlow is a trusted brand, so it’s no surprise it’s back in the top 5 this year. They provide high-quality parts that you may use in various settings.

It’s more complicated to locate a catalytic converter that satisfies all California Air Resources Board’s (CARB) requirements, but you’ll have a highly adaptable item when you do. In other words, this product will be superior to the EPA’s standards, allowing its application in various contexts across the country.

Having a CARB-approved part is beneficial. As a result of the increased efficiency with which it converts harmful emissions, it helps to shield other parts of your car from damage. The sturdy design also guarantees a long working life for the converter.

MagnaFlow catalytic converters have a reputation for enhancing acceleration and removing MIL technical errors, two indicators of a car’s underperformance. This device also lessens the number of contaminants in your emission and prevents harmful emissions from entering your power unit and the environment.

There are no better catalytic converters or exhaust systems than those made by the MagnaFlow company. You can rest assured that your vehicle’s check engine light will stay off as all parts are manufactured to OEM standards.

Although there are no air pipes or O2 sensor placements, the seams get welded closely to the converter’s housing to ensure a secure and reliable connection. Whether you’re running diesel or gasoline, the MagnaFlow 447206 series has you covered.

Pros:

• Approved by the CARB.
• Compatible with both gas and diesel engines.
• First-rate quality.

Cons:

• The setup might be tricky for some.

Evan-Fischer REPG960301 Silver Powder-Coated Catalytic Converter – Easiest To Install

The direct design of this Evan-Fischer catalytic converter makes it simple to set up and will not necessitate any further work on your vehicle. Indeed, nothing fancy like cutting or welding is required to get it up and to run.

For maximum reliability and performance, Evan-Fischer produces its catalytic converters following established criteria. Thus, their products are durable and resistant to damage for a long time.

This EveanFischer unit boosts your car’s efficiency and eliminates the pesky emission warning. But that’s not everything: with this outstanding product, your engine’s output will be better, and its temperature will be lower thanks to the converter. 

You can also rest assured that it consistently protects your engine thanks to the 4 O2 sensor terminals that maximize airflow while reducing back pressure. Since this catalytic converter is a factory-original part, it is compatible with most automobiles.

Evan-Fischer uses aluminized steel to produce its sturdy catalytic converter, allowing maximum flows with its dual outlets and single inlet. The manufacturer also backs it for 50,000 miles; thus, you can always get a refund if a problem (by the manufacturer) occurs.

Its Y-shaped pipe design is compatible with most factory pipes without modification. Hardware like fasteners, nuts, and valves are also provided. Both the driver and passenger sides can house this converter’s unit.

Although EvanFischer’s catalytic converter receives federal EPA certification, it does not meet CARB requirements. 

Pros:

• Assembling is a piece of cake (under 10 minutes).
• Durable.
• Good warranty

Cons:

• Rattling sounds when accelerating.

5 Factors To Consider When Buying A Catalytic Converter 

Car’s Year, Make, & Model

Your car’s year, make, and model are the fundamental considerations. The description of a direct-replacement catalytic converter will often include the vehicle’s year, manufacturer, and model that it can work with.

Web-based automotive parts shops have a search function that lets you narrow your results by vehicle year, manufacturer, and model.

Identify The Emissions Equipment Type

You should know the make and model of your car’s factory-installed emission hardware. There is usually an emissions control data label on the windshield of newer vehicles detailing your car’s OBD II emissions compliance status. 

Federal Or CARB Converters?

Finding out what exhaust mechanism your car comes with is essential when shopping for a catalytic converter. The catalytic converter on your vehicle must meet either California Air Resources Board or Federal guidelines. 

You can find that logo either on the bottom of your hood or close to the firewalls in the region just behind the motor. The federal regulations governing catalytic converters are equivalent to those quoting EPA (the Environmental Protection Agency).

Compared to other states, California’s Air Resources Board (CARB) has more stringent rules. There is a price difference between CARB and EPA catalytic converters since CARB devices require more expensive materials and more demanding testing. You can consider the below to determine the converter you require:

• If you bought your automobile in California, your converter meets CARB standards.
• If you purchased your automobiles in one of the remaining 49 states within the US, it might or might not satisfy CARB requirements. Visit the DMV’s website to find out more.
• Your catalytic converter is CARB compliant if it bears a seal of approval or a logo that indicates as much on the housing. This seal will include the product code, setup instructions, CARB certification number, and production date.

Direct-Fit Or Universal Or Manifold CAT?

Direct-fit, universal, and manifold are the 3 different types of catalytic converter available.

Direct Fit 

As its name suggests, a direct-fit catalytic converter is an exact replacement for the factory unit. For this type, minimal expertise or equipment is necessary.

Indeed, direct-fit converters can avoid welding and cutting, which are usually the problems. However, only a small number of automobiles in the market provide this option.

Universal 

In many countries, using a universal converter on a car is entirely lawful. However, some adjustments are necessary during setups, such as slicing, shaping, and welding.

The typical do-it-yourself installer may lack the necessary expertise or instruments for this job, but hiring an expert can cost a fortune. This could be quite an issue.

Manifold 

While direct-fit converters simply attach to an emission system, manifold ones are fitted into the manifolds that channel exhaust gasses from numerous cylinders into one piping system.

The cost of this converter is much higher than that of a direct-fit or universal converter since it is custom-made for a particular car. This converter necessitates the whole exhaust manifold being removed and replaced during setup.

Grade Of The Catalytic Converter

For 49-state OBDII uses, there are just 2 options:  OEM and HM heavy-metal grades.

The HM, or heavy metal, is often geared at federal and EPA-approved 49-state uses. Conversely, OEM quality is mandatory for ARB-approved uses in California. An emissions label in the engine compartment should provide this data.

FAQs 

Wrapping Up 

The best catalytic converters bring more benefits than just shutting off your flashing check engine light and avoiding those hefty fines. High-quality ones will help protect your engine, boost horsepower, reduce fuel consumption, improve emission system performance, etc. 

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